By Quintessa Williams
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated President, Elsie Cooke-Holmes has issued a statement regarding former members publicly denouncing the organization on social media platforms.
“Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s membership continues to grow, with thousands joining our cherished sisterhood each year, energized by our mission and inspired by 111 years of impact in communities across the nation and around the globe,” the statement begins,” “While social media tends to magnify outliers, individuals choosing to withdraw represent less than 1% of our membership. We accept the decision of those who choose to withdraw their membership – we wish former members peace and clarity.”
The statement comes after several former members have taken to social media and video-sharing outlets to denounce their fraternity and sorority organizations. Last month, Howard University student Zora Sanders went viral for her denouncement of the organization. Sanders, a double major in Pre-Law Political Science and History, took to Instagram to post a detailed letter explaining her decision.
“Before I was invited to join the organization, despite all the research and information I had gathered, I was not aware of the specific requirements needed to become an official member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated,” Sanders wrote.
“As I detail these requirements, I want to emphasize that they were my non-negotiables from the beginning and that while I did initially compromise on them, this is not something I am willing to continue compromising on under any circumstances.”
The letter goes on to state that her decision to denounce the sorority is driven by her religious convictions. “This conviction has been placed within me by the Holy Spirit, and I must obey,” she asserted. “Please inform me of the next steps or any paperwork necessary for me to be formally removed from the organization.
“This letter constitutes my official letter of denouncement. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for honoring my final decision.”
The letter received various controversial reactions. Some supporters praised and supported her for the public letter, while others criticized her for potentially disclosing confidential details about the sorority or denouncing the organization.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on the campus of Howard University on Jan. 13, 1913. Per the statement from President Holmes, the organization has garnered over 350,000 members.
“Delta’s strength lies in its members! Among us are trailblazers, including respected theologians, trusted community leaders, and changemakers in collegiate chapters and beyond,” President Holmes said.
“Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has 350,000 initiated members and more than 1,050 chapters across the United States and internationally, including in the Arabian Gulf, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Germany, Jamaica, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the Virgin Islands.”
