The Secrets of Greek Life

Posted Jan. 3, 2024

By Kim Phan

Opinions Editor

In contrast to other nations, American college campuses are well-known for their prevalent Greek culture. Fraternities and sororities were founded as social organizations to foster brotherhood/sisterhood amongst college undergraduates.  It is fundamental to the social structure of American college life.

 As recently as 2018, Syracuse University suspended a fraternity based on video evidence that showed the pledges made by the fraternity to “always have hatred in my heart” for Jews, African-Americans, and Hispanics—all of whom are derogatorily spoken about. After learning of the incident, university officials suspended this fraternity chapter, Tau of Theta Tau. The horror stories that result from attempting to be noticed in organizations with a large white membership are unimaginable. Greek life at the University of Alabama—a large university renowned for its vibrant Greek Life culture—was segregated up until 2013. 

Their funding is sustained by a sinister undercurrent of power. Eight out of ten American undergraduates reside in dorms; colleges are not required to provide any kind of housing. These organizations invoke power—power that is difficult to control. If the alumni who sponsored the investments are unhappy with the outcome, any small action taken against the Greek Life organizations could be an incentive for funding cuts. 

While I wouldn't go so far as to advocate doing away with Greek life entirely, I would agree to abolish the white power that exists in these organizations. Even so, most people tend to agree that it is easier said than done. Greek Life's culture is far more well-known for its accomplishments in becoming the Powerhouse that has given rise to several well-known figures who have had an impact on the business, legal, and political circles as well as the economy of our nation. These individuals have emerged as the key players who steer our nation's politics and determine many significant issues. Fighting against this pervasive system that ensures white men's power retains an ironclad grasp over our country is challenging but necessary.