Black Greek 101: The Culture, Customs, and Challenges of Black Fraternities and Sororities

Black Greek 101 provides an analysis of the customs, culture, and challenges facing historically Black fraternal organizations. The text initially provides a history of Black Greek organizations beyond the nine major organizations. Next, the pledging practice of the organizations is chronicled, noting the abuses associated with it, and a recent research study assesses the policies implemented to curb hazing in the organizations. The text highlights the growth of fraternalism outside of the mainstream organizations, with particular emphasis on African fraternal organizations. Then, the vivid culture and practices of the groups is documented, providing a historical grounding for the visible aspects of the groups. Finally, several challenges for the future are highlighted. Readers are also provided with an annotated bibliography of articles, news stories, and books related to Black fraternalism, as well as a chronicle of hazing cases over the past twelve years. Albany State University in Georgia.… (more)