When my parents left me at Tufts, they didn’t just give generic advice like “make new friends” and “study hard.” Instead, they warned me to steer clear of the fraternity scene. As professors residing near the university, they’ve witnessed the aftermath of wild college parties and understand the risks associated with Greek life.
Despite their advice, I found myself in a fraternity basement during my first weekend away from home, where my pristine white sneakers were quickly tarnished by the liquor-soaked floor, and my spray tan was smudged by the sweaty crowd.
This was no glamorous fraternity affair as glamorized on social media or in movies like “Neighbors” and “Old School.” There were no DJs spinning tracks in a lavish backyard or partygoers dancing on rooftops. Unlike the stereotypical Greek life scenes at southern universities, Tufts, a small liberal arts school, is gradually phasing out Greek organizations.
In the wake of the nationwide “Abolish Greek Life” movement that gained momentum in 2020 following the social and racial awakening prompted by the Black Lives Matter movement, Tufts’ Panhellenic Conference decided to suspend fall recruitment to reassess the role of Greek life on campus. This move wasn’t unexpected, considering Tufts’ history of suspending formal recruitment in 2016 due to allegations of hazing and misconduct.
The shift away from Greek life isn’t unique to Tufts; elite institutions like Duke University and Washington University in St. Louis have also reevaluated their relationships with fraternities and sororities, citing their problematic pasts conflicting with present-day values.
Originally established in the late 1700s, fraternities were exclusive to affluent, white, Christian men, with sororities following suit later. Today, Greek life not only embodies a history of supremacy but also perpetuates discriminatory practices. A survey at Princeton University revealed that a significant majority of sorority and fraternity members were white. Instances like Taylor Thompson’s departure from Kappa Kappa Gamma due to the sorority’s lack of response to racial injustices highlight the systemic issues within Greek organizations.
While such cases of “indirect racism” are prevalent, the financial barriers inherent in Greek life further hinder diversity. High membership dues and recruitment costs often deter students from low-income backgrounds. Disbanding Greek life entirely may not eradicate the deep-rooted injustices within these organizations.
Instead, universities like Tufts are leading positive reforms by supporting local sororities, implementing educational programs on risk management and inclusivity, and aligning Greek life with university guidelines. While the benefits of fraternity culture are evident in fostering friendships, networking opportunities, and leadership skills, addressing racial, financial, and cultural biases through training and scholarships is a crucial step towards reshaping the Greek life community for the better.