Interesting press release from Gamma Phi Beta

[shadokat]

Here is a recent news item I received from Gamma Phi Beta. Can someone tell me what historical contextualization is? And how much $$ do you dedicate to this sort of process? With all the talk of contraction of the Greek Systems at MANY schools across the country and the tightening of belts by all NPC organizations, this seems a strange way to spend money. Interested in your thoughts.

"Gamma Phi Beta Explores Her History Of Discrimination"
May 22, 2023

In the fall of 2021, Gamma Phi Beta hired Historical Research Associates, Inc. (HRA). Through HRA’s research, they explored the roots of discrimination based on class, race, sexuality, religion and more within Gamma Phi Beta, with a focus on locations, events, members and themes relevant to the
organization’s activities or policies that might have sustained or challenged racist or discriminatory beliefs.

An article sharing HRA’s findings can be found in the latest issue of The Crescent. In the article, Gamma Phi Beta’s International Council stated the following:
"Gamma Phi Beta holds a deep commitment to belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion. As one element of this commitment, we support the process of historical contextualization. Becoming a more welcoming sisterhood involves actively seeking to understand who has been excluded from membership over time for reasons not consistent with our published membership criteria. This
[work] of knowing and reconciling with all our history, including elements that are uncomfortable and unfavorable for members and the public alike, is an important step in building a stronger Gamma Phi Beta. We believe this is our best path toward remaining connected to our sisters of the past, present and future."

International President Autumn L. Hansen (Idaho) adds, “When reconciling Gamma Phi Beta’s role in discrimination and racism (specifically in but not limited to membership selection), a critical step of accountability is taking full acknowledgement and ownership of our past wrongs. Acknowledging the harm
caused is more than offering a trite apology. It is taking time to understand the impact.”