|
Iota Phi Theta Sweethearts are a recognized, respected and
honored tradition of the Fraternity and have a long history of
affiliation with Iota. This history harkens back to the days of
our Founding and the circumstances of the day.
In the early 1960's at Morgan State University, Iota Phi Theta
was blessed to have an invaluable ally in the person of Ms.
Audrey Brooks. Ms. Brooks was a member of the Morgan State
University staff and in this capacity, she played a crucial
"behind the scenes" role for the Fraternity. In many instances,
her actions and influence prevented the fledgling organization
from being victimized by those who would have seen Iota fail.
The spirit and dedication of Ms. Brooks lives today
through the Iota Phi Theta Sweetheart Organization and with good
reason. As Iota Phi Theta navigated the rocky waters of our
early years, the Brotherhood could always count on the support
of our Sweetheart organization. Be it serving as hostesses for a
national meeting or as a support team at a stepshow, our Hearts
have always been there ... on the front lines ... providing
vocal and moral support for the Brothers of Iota. Today, Iota
Sweethearts (many of whom are wives of Iota Men) continue to
support the organization in a major way.
Like many things about Iota Phi Theta, our Sweetheart
organization represents a departure from the norm as practiced
by other groups. Most notably, Iota Phi Theta Sweethearts do not
"pledge." They are selected through a specific set of criteria
as defined in our
Official Sweetheart Directive.
dditionally, the Iota Sweetheart organization is not to be seen
or construed as a substitute for a Sorority. In fact, thousands
of Iota Sweethearts have gone on to join NPHC sororities. Iota
Phi Theta is an avid supporter of these sororities and their
activities. In keeping with this support and respect, we frown
upon any activities undertaken by our Sweetheart Organization
that might be seen as competitive to, or disrespectful of, these
organizations.
In a Sweetheart Workshop held during the 1999 Iota Phi Theta
Conclave, Ms. Brooks stated, "The Purpose of Iota Sweethearts is
to smile and be gracious on behalf of Iota. Anything else is
inappropriate." As in all things, we endorse Ms. Brooks' view on
this subject wholeheartedly.
Iota Sweethearts hold a special place in the hearts and minds of
the Brotherhood and we are dedicated to their uplift, support,
and respect!
--from Iota Phi Theta National website
|
