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Gays in BGLOs: A Response
Thanks for the commentary about what is and is not worthy of study with regards to BGLOs. Let me comment. If you look at my last book and my blog, which lays out the next one, you will see that the success stories are and will be told--community service, philanthropy, civic action, role in international affairs.... But are we so one dimensional that all we can talk about is how wonderful we are? As a scholar and one who hopes other scholars will take the study of our groups seriously, I can't paint a one-sided picture--mainly because it is inaccurate. Also, however, if someone does not bring serious issues with which we wrestle to the fore, we will never effectively address them.
On another note, to say that since I address homosexuality in the book, I should also address lying, stealing, fornication, etc... is false logic. I addressed date rape, substance abuse, and hazing (all crimes) in the last book. However, I don't think I need to address homicide, pedophilia, and extortion among BGLOs. The issue for me is what are relevant issues for BGLOs, and what topics are currently researched re: fraternities and sororities generally, and how does that research relate to BGLOs.
The issues that the chapter addrssses is are a lot broader than simply why members won't vote gay members into their chapters. I wouldn't tackle a topic so narrow. I edited the chapter last week, and it says a lot about the stereotypes associated with several of the fraternities, notions about black manhood, hip hop culture, etc...
Seeing will be believing.
Dr. Gregory Parks
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