06/02/2020
Greek life has historically not been a beacon for diversity and social action. Instead, the institution often perpetuates a largely white, elitist, and misogynistic underpinning. In many ways, fraternities have benefited at the cost of others. Silence in a time where deep and pervasive systemic injustice is being exposed continues our complicity in a broken system.
We, the Brothers of Phi Delta Theta IL Beta at the University of Chicago, stand with the black student community and the Black Lives Matter movement. To be a part of the Hyde Park community and at an institution that is at fault for the historical exploitation of the black community makes the call for support and reconciliation even louder. We condemn unnecessary police violence and racially motivated acts of hatred towards others. We mourn for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and the countless others who have been and continue to be victims of an unfair and oppressive system.
Social media presence and statements have a role in the push for reform but it is not enough in and of itself. We feel compelled to act productively in our stand with the black community. As such, we have started a GoFundMe to donate proceeds towards My Block My Hood My City (specifically their small business relief fund), a local Chicago organization that strives for social justice, action, and education in our community and is on the frontlines of supporting the BLM movement and current protests.
For all Phis and community members at large, please continue to educate yourselves, stand in support, and act with a mindset of justice, compassion, and humility. Please find below a resource guide shared by the Organization of Black Students (OBS) at the University of Chicago.
Statement Link: https://bit.ly/PDTib_BLM
GoFundMe link: https://bit.ly/PDTib_BLMgfm
Greek life has historically not been a beacon for diversity and social action. Instead, t… Chris Dann needs your support for PDT IL Beta Fundraiser for MHMBMC
