Sorority Members’ Perspectives of Chapter Racial Integration

Abstract

The survival of social fraternal organizations may depend on whether or not members understand the importance of increasing the racial/ethnic diversity of their membership (Boschini & Thompson, 1998). Higher education institutions can emphasize the importance of diversity through university culture, vision, and support systems. A qualitative study was conducted to identify and compare the perceptions of members of historically Black and White sororities regarding racial diversity within their chapters. The purpose of this study was to explore the level of openness towards racial integration among members of both historically Black and White sororities. Findings suggest members of sororities may not support the recruitment of racially diverse members.