News stories on the lack of cultural diversity in college Greek life organizations have made national headlines in recent years. The resulting backlash against institutions of higher learning for having homogenous fraternities and sororities begs the question: how do Lake Forest’s Greek organizations measure up?
Sierra Clark ’18, a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, has mixed feelings about the issue of diversity within Greek life. “I am split in terms of not being able to speak for all Greek life on campus, but I do know that my sorority appreciates the diversity at the College and within the chapter,” Clark said.
When asked if a lack of acceptance or appreciation of diversity may be preventing some students from participating in Greek life, Clark said, “I personally do not agree that [Program Director of the Gates Center for Leadership and Personal Growth] Liz Snider, Panhellenic or the Greek organizations on campus are preventing non-white students to participate in Greek life due to the lack of appreciation for diversity or for any other reason. Greek life is not for everyone and that’s okay.”
Clark said she does not believe there is a sense of exclusivity that causes a lack of diversity in Greek organizations at Lake Forest. “Greek life on campus is dominated by white students and I cannot answer, for sure, why more diverse individuals do not participate,” Clark said. “What I can say is that all students have the same opportunity to go Greek, if they meet the academic and conduct requirements.”
Greek life has allowed Paul Jones ’18, a member of Delta Chi, “to make friends and come into contact with people from varying social and economic backgrounds that I would not have likely become friends with, without being in a fraternity.”
Jones offers his perspective on what the situation at Lake Forest is like. “Some people who are in Greek life may be intolerant, just like wider society,” he said. “But from what I have experienced, intolerance and bigotry is not tolerated and swiftly dealt with.”
On the larger issue of diversity on campus, Clark is thankful for the College’s efforts, but believes that there is more that students can do. “Lake Forest College is very accepting and strongly promotes diversity,” she said. “I appreciate the efforts OIR (Office of Intercultural Relations), The Gates Center, and Residence Life bring to continue the tradition of embracing diversity at Lake Forest College.”
Diversity is recognized on campus, she said. “But I feel it is widely not appreciated,” she added, pointing to social media comments. “Students at Lake Forest College are more prone to make negative comments on Yik Yak or not attend the diversity opportunities provided by campus clubs, faculty and staff,” Clark said.
Clark calls on others to promote a more accepting and diverse community at the College. “Get to know people who are ‘different’ from you,” she said. “Take advantage of the diversity that exists around you, such as attending the diversity events that clubs and organizations host. Lastly, understand and accept the differences among people because you have nothing to lose, but everything to gain.”
