What is a sorority?:
Sororities are traditionally social organizations for women at university campuses. Benefits of membership include opportunities for leadership, life-long friendships, academic support, professional networking, and participation in service and philanthropy. Over time, the Greek system ("sororities" for women, "fraternities" for men) has been criticized for tolerating underage drinking, late-night parties, and sometimes violent initiation rituals (hazing).
How was Gamma Gamma Chi founded?:
Many Muslim college students seek leadership and service opportunities outside of the Greek system, often through the network of Muslim Student Associations (MSAs). But North Carolina student Imani Abdul-Haqq decided that rather than dismiss sororities entirely, she would try to form her own, based on Islamic values. Her mother, Althia Collins, helped her get started, acting as president and executive director. Collins had plenty of experience to help them, as the former president of Bennett College and herself a member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority. Gamma Gamma Chi was founded in April 2005.
Who are the members of Gamma Gamma Chi?:
The founding principles of the sorority are based on Islam, but Gamma Gamma Chi is open to both Muslim and non-Muslim women. Most of its members are American-born, active Muslims who want to claim a voice and take a more central role in campus life. While they are committed to the principles of Islam, they vary in their personal practice. Daily prayers are performed, sisters fast together during Ramadan, but hijab (head covering) is not required of members.
What kinds of activities do they organize and participate in?:
The motto of Gamma Gamma Chi is “Striving for the pleasure of Allah through Sisterhood, Scholarship, Leadership and Community Service.” The organization raises funds for charity, participates in interfaith discussions, plans social gatherings (ladies only, no alcohol), and joins with other organizations in community service projects.
Where does Gamma Gamma Chi have chapters?:
At the end of the academic year 2010-2011, there were six chapters of Gamma Gamma Chi in the United States:
- National Grand Chapter - Talbott, Tennessee
- Alpha Chapter - Atlanta, Georgia
- Beta Chapter - Washington DC Metro Area
- Delta Chapter - Chicago, Illinois
- Epsilon Chapter - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Gamma Chapter - Greensboro, North Carolina
Do other Greek organizations accept the Muslim sorority?:
University administrators and Greek student leaders have welcomed Gamma Gamma Chi into university life. There are already a number of Christian-based sororities, and many feel that an Islamic sorority allows a diverse student population greater options to become involved in campus life.
Are there any Muslim fraternities?:
At this time, we have no information about any Muslim fraternity based on the model of Greek life. Many male (and female) Muslim students are involved in campus life through chapters of the Muslim Student Association or other organizations. Muslim university students are encouraged to contact their school's office of student affairs to find out about activities on campus.
