Can Women Fix Fraternities?

[Kevin]

Originally Posted by navane

The author mentioned that an anti-Greek organization at her campus, Engender, reportedly believes that integrating women into a fraternity will change male behavior. The author liked the idea of a co-ed social group ("fraternity") and joined one. She then reported that the members of her co-ed group are known to have sexual relations with one another.

I'd have news for them. Folks in same-sex fraternities and sororities have been having lots of sexual relations within their groups for a very long time. It seems a little naive for her to feel the need to point out that members in co-ed groups are known to have sexual relations with one another. I have nothing further to offer that hasn't already been said.

Otherwise, I couldn't care less what some group of randos wants my organization to do.

[honeychile]

Originally Posted by Kevin

(snip)

Otherwise, I couldn't care less what some group of randos wants my organization to do.

This.

As for the kumbaya feeling of a housed coed greek letter organization, I wish them luck. Sooner or later, some people break up.

[PhilTau]

It is interesting that some IFC campus rules prohibit women being present at rush activities. Some also prohibit auxiliary organizations (i.e., little sisters). I understand the rational behind both rules.

What is lost when women are barred from rush? In my own experience, admittedly a lifetime ago, little sisters were integral to rush. Every fraternity had them. They essentially hosted rush parties and (here's where my age shows) walked around with pitchers of beer and making sure that no mug became empty. With only a word, they also pretty much had the power to nix someone from getting a bid. Did their presence temper male behavior, definitely yes. Did they prevent bids to guys who gave off rapey vibes -- yes, they did.

Don't get me wrong, I am not necessarily advocating the return of little sister organizations -- but from my experience and observation (and I think most people will agree that) the presence women do have a moderating effect on "male behavior." At least it did in the stone ages.