To this day homosexuality is still a contentious issue, and in some places, derogatory terms for gays are still common vernacular. It appears that Delta Lambda Phi, a new colony in the UW Greek system, composed mainly of gay members, marks a new highlight in progressivism by counteracting this traditional, heterosexist tide.
It only makes sense that this indicates a triumph for the homosexual movement. However, is this separation the best way to cultivate acceptance?
While homosexuality has come a long way on this campus, there is still much progress to be made. For example, according to an Isthmus article profiling Delta Lambda Phi, in the 1960s the university branded homosexuality as malignant to the campus community. The institution interrogated anyone suspected of partaking in homosexual relations and blacklisted any suspected homosexuals. Eventually, the stress of constant surveillance caused many university employees to quit.
Since then, UW-Madison has made strides to be more inclusive and accommodating to its students, regardless of sexuality. Now, there are strict anti-discrimination policies and numerous resources available on campus designed to support the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community.
However, there is still progress to be made. Most importantly, the exclusivity factor of the Greek system could potentially undermine the progressiveness of this new colony. The elite overtones of the system are what prompted the start of separate homosexual colonies and chapters to begin with. People who pledge should not feel compelled to hide their sexual identity for fear of being ostracized.
Even though there are gay males in other frats, they generally keep it a secret or are hassled if they choose to be open about it, according to the Isthmus article. So having this new colony does not automatically mean the Greek system as a whole is more tolerant and accepting.
Additionally, the label ""gay fraternity"" could actually serve to isolate the organization. By placing that marker on it, people are more inclined to see it for just that quality, thus reinforcing stereotypes. An example of this can be seen when some people immediately asked if Delta Lambda Phi is merely a society of rampant promiscuity.
Of course, the organization's policy is that social relations between members are ""strictly platonic,"" which is the best way to preserve a cohesive unit. However, even if relations are not platonic and the entire organization is playing ""musical beds,"" who cares and why is this relevant? As long as it is consensual and safe, it should not really matter. Let's be honest, sex is a part of life, and is necessary for life to even occur.
Simply put, Greek approval of this new frat does not necessarily mean discrimination has been eliminated. Although not true of all sororities and fraternities, the Greek system is not perfect and has a reputation of being replete with hazing and discrimination. So, it should not be used as a measuring rod in terms of judging normative action.
While the Greek system does serve as a bastion of service and leadership, it is clear that homosexuality is not completely accepted, even on the UW-Madison campus as a whole. While we may believe UW-Madison's liberal atmosphere means there is no stigma to being gay, this is just not true.
Whether it is more traditional ideals espousing the moral rightness of heterosexuality or the gossipy whispers of ""Is he...?"" among the student population, it seems that both covert and overt displays of discrimination continue to be an issue.
Perhaps the introduction of Delta Lambda Phi could serve to diversify the Greek system and cultivate more tolerance at this university, but unfortunately it could also be divisive. This aspect could have negative future consequences because, as we all know, separate is inherently unequal.
