uf fraternity for lesbians χλθ inducts its first pledges

The often-touted diversity of the greek scene at the University of Florida is expanding again. Chi Lambda Theta was founded as a fraternity last August by three women identifying as lesbians who felt sororities did not represent their self-ideals. Vigorously courting self-actualization, they opted to establish a fraternity rather than sorority because "the term ‘fraternity’ is more encompassing," explained Tasha Owens, one of the founders; "masculine women simply do not fit in with traditional sororities."

Indeed, that's the crux of the issue: Chi Lambda Theta sees itself as a greek society specifically for lesbians who embody a more masculine identity. Even in the modern age of nuanced self-image and multifarity of every stripe, the longevity of an organization catering to a relatively small slice of society might have been questioned. But Chi Lambda Theta has just inducted its first pledge class of four women, so they seem to be at UF to stay. Thus far, they are still keeping a low profile, admits Kesha Miller, another co-founder: “We haven’t had any bad reactions thus far. But, we also haven’t had any big events.” Perhaps with the new brothers (sisters?) on board, it will be time to start.

Independent Florida Alligator