At a time where sexual assault has reached a fiery peak on college campuses, many are left wondering how and if the ever-present issue will ever be solved. In recent times, universities have implemented stricter rules on fraternities involved with these types of incidents, introduced new safety initiatives and even brought up the idea of removing their Greek systems altogether. But the newest idea comes from some Greek members themselves: Allowing sororities to host parties that involve alcohol in their own houses.
Currently, most sororities are forbidden from having alcohol in their houses. The reasoning behind allowing sororities to have alcohol and thus, parties in their own houses, stems from the notion that the women will be in control of the party dynamic. They'll have the ability to keep areas of the space off limits, oversee exactly what alcohol is served and how.
It may seem like a fine idea to some, but there are definitely some other arguments to be had. For practicality's sake, sororities cut prices for members by outlawing alcohol. Cindy Stellhorn, an insurance broker who oversees policies for 19 sororities, told the New York Times that it costs a sorority member $25 to $50 each year to be covered, while fraternity members pay around $160. The price for sorority members doesn't seem bad, but if you tally up all of the fees, total dues can be pretty hefty as we've already have seen.
But what may be the biggest controversy is that this idea would introduce even more alcohol into the scene. A Kappa Kappa Gamma member told the Times that allowing more alcohol shouldn't be the solution to sexual assault. "As women, have friends around you, and don't drink too much ... be surrounded by people who know and care about you," she said.
Also, one could argue that just because a sorority rules an area of the house as off limits, doesn't necessarily prevent anything from happening. A Delta Gamma member from the University of Southern Mississippi told the Times that an assault could still happen: "When people are under the influence, they’re going to do what they want to do. It can happen anywhere, even in a sorority.”
What are your thoughts on the idea of sororities hosting parties? Would it solve any of the problems? Let us know what you think!