DEI
“To be to others what we would they would be to us… To walk in the way of honor… Striving to esteem the inner man above culture, wealth or pedigree.” These words from the Creed of Phi Mu provide a guide for noble living and are just as important today as when they were written in 1916.
In 2016, Phi Mu’s National Council created five Ends Policies to set strategic priorities for our organization. The policy focused on diversity, equity and inclusion has become an immediate priority for the Fraternity. A DEI trategic Plan Focus Group was formed in 2020 and the Phi Mu Fraternity DEI Strategic Plan was unveiled in April of 2021. The Focus Group was facilitated by Dr. Shirley Davis, the President and CEO of SDS Global Enterprises, Inc. Dr. Davis brought a unique background as a seasoned human resources and diversity and inclusion global thought leader. Her consulting fee was made possible through a generous grant from Phi Mu Foundation.
One of the many outcomes of the Focus Group’s work was writing a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Position Statement: Our core values of love, honor and truth, in principle and in practice, demand a commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion throughout Phi Mu Fraternity. Our steadfast sisterhood is strong because all members are respected, valued and celebrated for who they are.
Diversity Equity and Inclusion National Committee
Following the work of the DEI Working Group and the creation of the DEI Strategic Plan, a permanent national committee has formed currently led by Annie Schutzler (Muhlenberg). The national committee will support the work of the staff to make Phi Mu a stronger, more inclusive organization. The staff partner is Diane Humphreys (Huntingdon).
Zeta Zeta's DEI
"Hi! My name is Lacy Wilkison and I am the DEI Director for the Zeta Zeta chapter.
In my position, I plan a variety of events to help educate our members and facilitate various discussions on DEI topics. In the past, we've had our chapter advisor Tajiha speak about her experience being a black woman in a sorority. I also got to collaborate with our wonderful Sisterhood Chair McKenna to host a Barbie Movie Discussion Night where we talked about feminism and the patriarchy through the outlet of the Barbie movie. Zeta Zeta also has a DEI book club where we read a book about a DEI topic and discuss what it means to us and how we can advocate for different groups of people who need to be uplifted.
To me, DEI is about making sure every member of Zeta Zeta is fully welcomed into our chapter and feels that they can be themselves. It is so important to look beyond labels, stereotypes, and initial impressions of a person and get to know people for who they are. In Zeta Zeta, you can come as you are you, be who you want to be, and know you will be accepted and loved."
