Sisterhood (feminism) facts for kids

A sorority is a social organization for women, often found at colleges and universities. The word "sorority" comes from the Latin word soror, which means "sister". These groups are sometimes called "women's fraternities" because they are similar to fraternities, which are social organizations for men.

Sororities are usually formed to help their members grow in different ways, like academically, socially, and through leadership. They often focus on community service, helping others, and building strong friendships among their members.

What Do Sororities Do?

Sororities have several main goals:

• Friendship and Community: They create a close-knit community where members can make lifelong friends and support each other.
• Academics: Many sororities encourage good grades and offer study help or tutoring to their members.
• Leadership: Members can take on leadership roles within the sorority, learning how to manage events, lead meetings, and work with others.
• Philanthropy and Service: Sororities often raise money or volunteer their time for charities and community projects. This is called philanthropy or community service.
• Social Events: They organize social activities, like dances, parties, and gatherings, to help members connect and have fun.

How Do People Join a Sorority?

Joining a sorority usually involves a process called "recruitment" or "rush." During recruitment, potential new members meet different sororities and learn about their values and activities. It's a chance for both the sororities and the students to see if they are a good match.

If a student decides to join, they become a "new member" or "pledge" first. This period helps them learn about the sorority's history, traditions, and rules before they become a full member.

History of Sororities

The first sororities in the United States started in the mid-1800s. At that time, women were just beginning to attend colleges and universities in larger numbers. These groups were created to provide support and community for women in a male-dominated academic world.

One of the very first organizations for college women was the Adelphean Society, founded in 1851 at Wesleyan College in Georgia. It later became Alpha Delta Pi, which is still an active sorority today. Over time, more sororities were formed, and they grew in popularity across the country.

Sorority Life Today

Today, sororities are a big part of campus life at many colleges and universities. They offer a unique experience for young women to develop skills, build friendships, and contribute to their communities. While some traditions have changed over the years, the core values of sisterhood, scholarship, and service remain important.