LETTER: Administrator addresses her 'deep wounds and pain'

To the Editor: Personally, I was shocked at the overt sexist behavior. The program was designed to look at the "Animal House" image which for years has been depicted of so many Greek systems across the country. The actions of the young men in the room that evening put these images into action, therefore validating the truth and prevalence of sexism both within the Greek system at Penn and of our society at large. As someone who was personally and publicly victimized by sexism, the impact of their stabs created deep wounds and pain. I still stand behind the challenge to "STRIVE" to end the Animal House image. The only way this can be achieved is for the young men in the Greek system to admit to their sexist attitudes and to honestly seek to understand the impact of their actions. Change must occur. Beliefs, attitudes and dehumanizing of individuals must end. If not, our Greek system will end. We challenge you to "STRIVE" to end the Animal House image? · Support your chapter and the ideals upon which it was founded. · Treat others how you would want them to treat you -- respect men, women and relationships. · Respect yourself -- don't abuse drugs and alcohol or let yourself be hazed, mentally or physically. · Imagine new activities, generate new ideas, challenge traditions and make your own mark at Penn. · Volunteer in the community and participate in other campus activities. · Excel academically. I will continue to work with the system in the process, as long as they are willing to accept the challenge to uphold the high standards upon which all fraternites were founded. TRICIA PHAUP Director, OFSA