How much should we teach our members about other GLOs in our conference/council?

[PhoenixAzul]

As a pledge, we learned the basics of every sorority and fraternity on campus (all locals, plus one national fraternity).

Because I'm a geek, I ended up on greekchat and learned a bit about the NPC's and NPHCs, how their processes differ from ours, etc. I really feel like this would be good for the local campuses to learn as well, just as a mark of respect and understanding, and for good rounded citizenship. But as a crusty old alum, this might be a pipe dream (though I feel the actives may know more now, just because of Phi Delt's colonization attempts and successive non-local Greek Directors- a Phi Delt, a Delta Gamma, and I believe a ZTA(?) in there since I graduated.

I think enough to not embarass themselves would be great, especially if you go up to someone like an AKA or an Alpha Delta Pi, both with long histories and tons of members, and go..."so you're a local, right?"

[DrPhil]

Originally Posted by PhoenixAzul

I think enough to not embarass themselves would be great, especially if you go up to someone like an AKA or an Alpha Delta Pi, both with long histories and tons of members, and go..."so you're a local, right?"

Yes, when encountering the unfamiliar, it is best to silently observe and research when you get back home.

I know NPHCers who pledged long before there was a such thing as Iota Phi Theta (or after Iota was founded but there was no chapter in their city or at their school) so they of course are baffled. They mean no harm and most Iotas would not be too offended as long as there is no disrespect.

My only pet peeve regarding this is when someone wants a history lesson and for you to prove your GLO is "awesome enough to know about" when you meet them. That sometimes happens during interactions with people from other councils and conferences. And it sometimes happens at the most random of places like a not-Greek-affiliated vacation spot. Ummm...no, this elevator is not a first year student orientation. You (in general) learn about my GLO by researching when you get home. If you care...you don't have to care.