Dear Emmanuel Johnson,

I am writing to you, on behalf of the Multicultural Greek Council, in regards to the article titled, Office of Student Life invites GV to ‘Meet the Greeks.’ The Multicultural Greek Council received two letters from Grand Valley students expressing great disappointment in the exclusion of Multicultural Greek lettered organizations as well as the National Pan-Hellenic organizations, which constitutes the historically African American Greek organizations. This was not only the interest of those two students but an even greater concern for the Multicultural Greek Council as it greatly hinders the integrity of Greek life here on Grand Valley’s campus.

Grand Valley’s pledge is to educate students to shape their lives, their profession, and their societies. The Lanthorn neglected to include any information, commentary, or pictures of other organization besides those from the Panhellenic Association and Intrafraternity Council. This shows a lack of respect for the organizations that were not represented.

It is to be expected that a university’s newspaper should have high standards in representing the university to its utmost capacity. It should follow the values of the university to educate students in every aspect. In disregarding some of the Greek organizations, the Lanthorn has neglected to completely provide very critical information regarding what options are available for those who are interested in Greek Life. It is undeniable that the Lanthorn is used to showcase all Grand Valley has to offer. In discounting some Greek organizations in an article about Greek life, the Lanthorn has tainted its reputation in the ability to provide accurate and straightforward information to the public.

Additionally, the offense of this article was taken because the column about finding the “perfect fit” also disregarded all of the sororities and fraternities outside of the Panhellenic Association. The organizations comprising all of Greek Life have equally contributed to the success of numerous student leaders of Grand Valley. The quality of the members in the Multicultural Greek Council and the National Pan-Hellenic Council and their contribution to the campus cannot be ignored. These minority based organizations a highly successful in providing cultural programming and great service to the community. There is no reason why only a portion of greek life should be represented since we are all united as Greeks.

In conclusion, I would like propose that there be retraction of the article. The least that can be expected is that the next article involving fraternity and sorority life includes all organizations. There is no reason why members of MGC and NPHC should be left out as an option for those interested in Greek Life. I have hopes that staff members of the Lanthorn can learn from this situation and work toward unifying Grand Valley State University in the future.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me via e-mail ([email protected]) or feel free to call my mobile phone at 616.298.6021.

Have a great day and I hope to hear from you soon.

Melanie Kom