Statement on Diversity and Inclusion

Fall 2021

Greetings Sisters,

I hope this message finds you safe and well. 

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and a revolutionary exploration around systemic racism, the Board of Portland Suburban Alumnae chapter feels a powerful and inspired duty to send an open letter to our membership.  A call to action.  A rally cry to our Sisters.  A challenge to the status quo.  An invitation to join us, and the entire Delta Gamma organization, in dismantling the systemic racism that exists within our institution.

Delta Gamma Executive Offices released a heartening message that addresses the global DG scope and highlights the ways our leaders are purposefully and seriously engaging in the explorations around social injustice and race inequity.  The message highlights the ways in which Delta Gamma is learning from our sisters who are black, indigenous and people of color, integrating their valuable feedback, embarking on critical growth explorations, and implementing meaningful systemic change.

As an alumnae chapter, it is no less important for us to engage in this transformative process and evaluate the ways in which our local collegiate and alumnae chapters can work towards race equity – examining barriers within our systems and personal biases – and evolving into a place of social justice and loving, knowledgeable, equitable access and opportunity for members of all races.   

To start, the Board has created three initial areas of focus: 1) to invite our collegiate sisters of Eta Omega into conversations around systems, obstacles, and plans for change, as they transition into to alumnae; 2) to connect with our local BIPOC sisters to ensure that all members feel welcome and safe to participate in their alumnae experience; and 3) to create pointed programming activities that are centered around proactive learning and growing in respect to dismantling systemic racism and establishing social justice.

And, as we confront our own perspectives and biases, challenge those of the system, and engage in dialogues with our BIPOC sisters, I am confident we will create meaningful change.  I believe in the compassion of our sisterhood, and our continued pursuit to DO GOOD.

In this club of mutual helpfulness, we will be a SAFE, INCLUSIVE, RESPECTFUL organization, and together, we will bring this chapter into a loving, connected future.