Madelyn Gee – Everyone has a unique introduction to the ideas and culture that end up changing their lives. For me, I grew up surrounded by it. I remember watching my mother get ready for events, fundraisers, or even just meeting up with her fellow sorority sisters. And I felt so proud of her. Not just because she was a part of this sorority, but because of all the good and change she was promoting being a part of one. This mindset stayed with me as I got older and as she continued her own sorority experience.
When I entered my sophomore year of college, the opportunity arose for me to join my mother’s sorority. Ecstatic isn’t strong enough of a word. I had been working hard for years in order for me to be eligible. Along with that excitement, however, was fear. Was I good enough? What if they get to know me and don’t like me? What if I can’t do the work and fulfill the sorority missions like my mother could? Regardless of my self-sabotage, I had to tune it out. What is meant for you will never pass you. And this opportunity was presented to me for a reason.
Hitting fast forward, I just celebrated five years of being in my sorority. Seeing all of the newer members makes me feel ancient and nostalgic at the same time. Nevertheless, I am thankful to be a part of an organization that I love. It is more than just wearing letters on cute outfits and strolling through parties. The founders of the Divine Nine organizations, (link) or the nine Black Greek-letter organizations in the National Pan-Hellenic Council, created spaces where Blackness could thrive and be celebrated.
Regardless of where the organization started, what letters you wear, or what founding principles you defend, these organizations were and still are essential because we are not always given a seat at the table.
The missions and communities around us that need support do not always get a spotlight. And with so much going on in our world, a way to bring Black men and women together and not apart is more than needed. The sororities and fraternities that make up the Divine Nine not only show that when we come together, great strides forward in our society can take place. But we also don’t need your seat at the table – we can create our own table and chairs and still not be stopped.
All of this to say, if you are considering joining a Divine Nine organization, do your research. Don’t just join an organization because your family and friends are in it. See what organization truly lines up with your beliefs and the change that you want to see in the world. And regardless, if you join a sorority or fraternity, support the chapters around you when it comes to food drives, holiday donations, etc. Being able to support your community by working with organizations at the frontlines of change is very important.
I am glad that I get to make the little girl who watched her mom work hard for the sorority proud by dedicating my life to its purposes as well. I hope that I leave a positive impact not just on the organization, but anyone who sees me and the incredible women alongside me working to promote Black culture and progress.
Madelyn Gee is a Houston-based journalist and screenwriter. She is a proud Baylor and UT-Austin alumna. Along with covering pop culture and writing horror films, she enjoys binging TikToks and finding solace at her nearest P.F. Changs. Find her at: mediaprincess.rocks and Instagram: @maddiethebeast.
Photo Source: Clay Banks, @claybanks, via Unsplash.
