The Journey

49 replies · 17217 views · Started by PrimaDonna_1908 · Jul 2005

PrimaDonna_1908

Winston-Salem, NC

PrimaDonna_1908 Winston-Salem, NC

Greek Family, I was having a conversation with a sistergreek the other day when the topic of greek life came up. She made an interesting comparison between helping people in their quest for greekdom and affirmative action. Her main point was that many greeks are hypocritical in that many of us believe in the institution of affirmative action as a means of getting us to places that our efforts alone would not take us. In her opinion, the hypocrisy lies in that we don�t adopt that same attitude as it pertains to greek life. Many greeks maintain the mantra �I got mine the hard way�you need to get yours the same way� instead of wanting to make things easier for those who come behind us. I know what you are going to say: �They will appreciate my organization better if they have to work for it.� While this may be true, African-American doctors, lawyers, and educators who went through the Aff. Act. System are viewed no less than those who made it the hard way. What do you think? Is her comparison legitimate? I�m interested in hearing your thoughts. Since this post is so long, I will give my opinion at a later time. Additionally, while this post is intended for greeks, substantial responses from non-greeks are welcome. #13�Prima Donna

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laidbackfella from Orangeburg, SC · Jul 2005

#41 Reply

Senior Guest wrote:
Yes, that is my definition.

So your understanding of the difference between pledging and hazing is askew. Pledging is a period of time where you learn about the organization and yourself before you cross. Hazing is a situation where you go through physical and mental stress and generally learn nothing of substance. Normally when I talk about pledging, I reference the Armed Services. While our mission is totally different, new military recruits go through a period of time where they are tested physically and mentally. Before they can truly can become a soldier there is a level of basic training that they MUST complete. During this period of time they learn about themselves and the branch of service for which they are receiving training. Drill Sgts can make it easy or they can make it hard. I don't know about you guys but I feel better when I know that a Drill Sgt pushes their recruits to perform at a higher level than just what it takes to get by.

Senior Guest wrote:
I also KNOW it does not guarantee love and devotion.

Nothing can. There is, however, a basic level of competency ALL aspirants are required to have before they cross.

Senior Guest wrote:
Another reason I asked Is because we feel people have to "earn" everything. Some people say they will not pay all of college education so their children will appreciate it more or "I paid my way"

So are you saying people shouldn't have to earn things? Especially something like Membership in a GLO which is an option and not a requirement?

Senior Guest wrote:
Some one asked why white GLO's seem more welcoming and make it easier to join than we do and no one ever addressed that. They seem active and committed in undergrad, not when they are 50, but they must support them if the houses are evidence.