Ask LaToya Hankins discussion

This week marks the establishment of three major African American sororities, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (Jan. 16, 1920) Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Jan. 13.1913), and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Jan. 15.1908) . The book, K:Rho The Sweet Taste of Sisterhood - involves three different college sophomores joining a fictional sorority, Kappa Alpha Rho Sorority, Inc. In this day and age, is sorority membership worth pursuing.

At the time I attended Drew University, the black population in the college was less than 1%. They didn't have Greek organizations other than the honor society variety, so sororities were not part of my college experience.

My mother and my oldest sister were both Zetas (both joined in a graduate chapter), and two of my four brothers were Kappas (both went through the initiation and hazing process).

I never could see subjecting myself to physical or emotional intimidation by women who would later be my "friends."

In this day and age, there are so many other ways for people to connect, and build a list of resources for their social and business activities.

That is cool about your Greek connection. While I agree there are so many other ways for people to connect and build resources, I will still submit sorority involvement is an excellent way to build relationships that last beyond just connections. When it works, it works well.

I'm a bit torn. I'd hate to think my hazing process was in vain but I do shamefully hold receiving wood as a "better than thou" experience. I still struggle with Kiara's experience being considered "hazing" and have difficulty uplifting those who have not received wood. But I suppose that is the mindset of black Greek lettered organizations?