The Observer, November 10, 2006
Volume XXXIX, Issue 10
Greek community placed under scrutinizing spotlight
With 30 percent of all undergraduates members of a Greek organization on campus, it's obvious that fraternities and sororities are an essential part of life at Case. Nationally, Greeks have been stereotyped as alcoholic partiers and are known for their extreme hazing rituals. While some students on campus may take the stereotypes to heart, Case Greeks have strived to promote the positive aspects of Greek Life through their philanthropic efforts, academic achievements, and leadership roles. Last week though, the harmony within the Greek system was broken when it was decided that the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity, an established chapter at Case since 1905, would lose its house on Southside and no longer be recognized by the university due to past history and alcohol violations.
While this situation may seem like a win for the university and perhaps rival fraternities, it is a loss for the Greek community. The removal of SAE from Case only means that the other remaining organizations will be under closer scrutiny by the Greek Life Office. This uncovers another significant point that impacts all Greeks. Are the activities of Greek organizations being specifically monitored and are their actions being magnified? It's not a secret that many athletic teams and other clubs hold traditions that can be defined as hazing and host parties that certainly involve alcohol, but many of these events go unnoticed as there aren't any authority figures, like members of the Greek Life Office, keeping a watchful eye.
In addition to university policies that apply to all students, Greeks must also adhere to specific Greek Life regulations regarding issues such as recruitment and alcohol. While these rules are justified and serve to ensure the safety and well-being of students, oftentimes the restrictions only cause discord within the chapter and among the chapters. If we wish to preserve the accomplishments and traditions of fraternities and sororities, more trust should be placed within the Greek community and in all fairness, the current spotlight on Greeks needs to be cast upon every undergraduate.
It is also important to realize that the events that happen in the Greek world are not isolated and can potentially affect students who are not affiliated with a fraternity or sorority. For those students who plan on joining a Greek organization in the spring, it is important to be aware of the positive and negative aspects of Greek life before making a significant commitment during your college career. The Greek community is a staple in the social, philanthropic, and academic aspects of Case life. Any student who benefits from the activites of the Greek community should also express an interest in its well–being.
