The Greek stereotype: it's what I do, not who I am
Issue date: 11/20/09 Section: Opinion
To the Editor:
I am writing in response to the editorial from a few weeks ago about Greek Life's participation in community service projects on Lafayette's campus. I am insulted and offended by the accusations made against me and my classmates. It shocked me that Ms. Burey so nonchalantly mentioned how "One may judge the way they dress, talk and congregate for lunches." I am saddened that she appears to encourage or at least accept judging people without knowing them. I also wasn't aware that it was a crime to eat lunch with my friends.
I would like to respond to a number of claims made in the editorial:
1. "Sororities and fraternities on campus are mandated to do service by the college."
This is 100 percent true. Community service is an integral part of Greek life, which each student is made aware of during recruitment. Sororities and fraternities are not only required by the school to do community service, but also by their national chapters. Girls learn about each chapter's national philanthropy during recruitment. In addition to that philanthropy, many sororities and fraternities undertake other projects that are important to them. Even though each member is required to do community service, many students are extremely busy, so we strive to find organizations that people will want to spend a number of hours helping. When we raise money for a student's cancer-stricken parent or spend time with children in honor of a deceased student it is because we want to do it, not because the school mandates it. Many students initially go to a community service event because it is a requirement, but continue to return because it becomes important to them. Even though we are required to complete a certain number of hours, most members of Greek organizations go above and beyond what is required because we want to.
2."Literacy Day and Make A Difference Day are opportune times to spot groups of coordinated t-shirts frolicking off to the Marlo Room with coffee cups in hand. But when else do we see these organizations leaping to action in Easton??"
I am writing in response to the editorial from a few weeks ago about Greek Life's participation in community service projects on Lafayette's campus. I am insulted and offended by the accusations made against me and my classmates. It shocked me that Ms. Burey so nonchalantly mentioned how "One may judge the way they dress, talk and congregate for lunches." I am saddened that she appears to encourage or at least accept judging people without knowing them. I also wasn't aware that it was a crime to eat lunch with my friends.
I would like to respond to a number of claims made in the editorial:
1. "Sororities and fraternities on campus are mandated to do service by the college."
This is 100 percent true. Community service is an integral part of Greek life, which each student is made aware of during recruitment. Sororities and fraternities are not only required by the school to do community service, but also by their national chapters. Girls learn about each chapter's national philanthropy during recruitment. In addition to that philanthropy, many sororities and fraternities undertake other projects that are important to them. Even though each member is required to do community service, many students are extremely busy, so we strive to find organizations that people will want to spend a number of hours helping. When we raise money for a student's cancer-stricken parent or spend time with children in honor of a deceased student it is because we want to do it, not because the school mandates it. Many students initially go to a community service event because it is a requirement, but continue to return because it becomes important to them. Even though we are required to complete a certain number of hours, most members of Greek organizations go above and beyond what is required because we want to.
2."Literacy Day and Make A Difference Day are opportune times to spot groups of coordinated t-shirts frolicking off to the Marlo Room with coffee cups in hand. But when else do we see these organizations leaping to action in Easton??"
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
Laf Greek Alum
posted 11/20/09 @ 2:59 PM EST
Ms. Burey wonders "when else do we see these organizations leaping to action in Easton" but then immediately asks why Greek organizations seem to want praise for their contributions. (Continued…)
Easton Movers
posted 12/02/09 @ 11:29 AM EST
I think this is a good discussion regarding Greek life and the way Greeks are often viewed by others. It's something that is common on most campuses and there is definitely a strong judgment that people make on both sides. (Continued…)
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