Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the nation’s oldest historically Black intercollegiate Greek letter fraternity, is reportedly considering a ban on transgender members. This potential ban, if approved, would make Alpha the second Black fraternity to implement such a policy, following Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
GLAAD recently reported that delegates of Alpha Phi Alpha would discuss an amendment to the organization’s bylaws at its Constitutional Convention. The proposed amendment would restrict membership to individuals who are “defined as a human being naturally born male, who remains and continually identifies as a male.” On July 15, GLAAD reported that sources indicated the delegates had approved the amendment, advancing it to the next stage of approvals before it becomes official.
It is currently unclear how this ban would be enforced, or how many current members it could potentially affect. While there has been some opposition to the proposal, with some Alpha members expressing their disapproval on social media, GLAAD reported that the delegates voted “overwhelmingly” in favor of the ban. Interviews conducted by GLAAD with Alpha members revealed a potential generational gap within the organization, with older and more conservative leadership contrasting with a younger and more progressive general body.
David Johns, CEO and executive director of the National Black Justice Coalition, a Black LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, criticized proposals like this one as contradictory to the founding principles of Black fraternities. He emphasized that organizations like Alpha Phi Alpha were originally established to provide support and advocacy for minority students facing racial discrimination in educational and social settings.
Johns stated that by excluding transgender individuals, these fraternities are deviating from their core values of brotherhood and inclusivity, betraying the legacy of activism and leadership that they have upheld for over a century.
Teen Vogue has attempted to reach out to both Alpha Phi Alpha Inc. and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. for comments on the matter, but has not received responses at this time.
It is important to consider the implications of such a ban within the context of the broader LGBTQ+ community and the ongoing conversations around inclusivity and equality. The decision made by Alpha Phi Alpha could potentially have far-reaching effects on its membership and relationships with other organizations.