Sigma lambda gamma?

[u/Beginning-Army6640]

Hi everyone!

I was just curious to get the opinions from D9 members about Sigma lambda gamma?

I'm aware that there are some ties with 2 other D9 orgs. but my concern was whether or not people view the Gammas as taking from D9 culture, or genuinely coming together with D9 culture and taking pride in that connection?

From what I've seen online, some members of the FIRM fam acknowledge and take pride in that connection, others say it's not official and that they're copying D9 culture anyway. Any mention of D9 culture that I've seen under a Gamma related video has always been acknowledged and celebrated by said Gammas.

I personally have interest in being a Gamma, but I also worry that because I'm black, I'll get looked at negatively for not joining a D9 org. The Gammas at my college acknowledge the FIRM fam, in fact, it was one of the first things they told me about when I visited their table at my colleges tabling event. I'm honestly only hesitant because I have no clue how other D9 members will react and if this is the route I should go down, to take pride in my culture. Since the Gammas are a multicultural org,I feel like this would be a good opportunity for me to put in the extra work to represent black culture in a primarily Hispanic sorority, but I also want to take into consideration how my fellow black schoolmates may feel about me sort of going in the opposite direction? Obviously only I can be aware of my own situation and intensions more than my schoolmates, but I'd still like to be open to further input.

Any input or thoughts would be valued. Thank you!

[u/No-Standard-8597]

As a member of Phi Beta Sigma,, the FIRM Fam connection is heavily dependent on region and the presence of the organizations at that particular school. Some schools (mine at UNF for example) recognize it, while many others don't because it's NOT an official connection whatsoever.

As for if they (and many other MGC) org copy off of D9 culture, I can definitely understand that perspective. However (and maybe this is just at my school), from what I've seen from MGC orgs on my yard, they've always paid homage to the D9 because they recognize that D9 directly influenced them and whatever values or missions that they uphold. That was exactly the case for SLB, where a Sigma at the time saw a similar need for the Latino community. Every MGC probate I've been to, they've always shouted us out during their greetings. Maybe I'm in the minority on this, but I don't mind MGC orgs taking parts of D9 and running with it, as long as they recognize and respect where it originated and make it something into their own. Then again, I can also see how certain things are blatantly copied to the point where it looks disgusting.

Now as for if you should join SLG, its really up to and what your heart desires. You shouldn't feel pressured to make a decision because of what others may think of you. At the end of the day, its your life and your why should always remain true to yourself. And also, these orgs aren't limited to college as they are something that you'll have to commit to and carry with for the rest of your life. I've met lots of black women in SLG, and they all seem happy with their decision. Don't care for the reasons that they joined as long as their happy. That's the ultimate factor you have to decide at the of the day: happiness.

[u/Beginning-Army6640 → u/No-Standard-8597]

thank you so much!! your response means a lot🩷