Response to potential overturning of Roe v. Wade
Posted by Stephanie Sierra on May 7, 2022

Dear Sxsters of Kappa Delta Chi,

A few days ago, members of Politico’s staff leaked a draft of an initial majority opinion*, written by Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, that would overturn Roe v. Wade, a landmark ruling passed nearly 50 years ago that protects a person’s right to an abortion without excessive government restriction. Should Roe v. Wade be overturned, laws in over 20 states could immediately restrict or outright ban abortion**.

News of this has already shaken communities, as low-income and communities of color stand to most suffer if and when Roe v. Wade is overturned. As such, we in the National Cabinet felt compelled to communicate our support and concern, as this ruling directly impacts many of our members. First and foremost, we believe in autonomy over one’s body and the full right to make decisions that impact one’s health and welfare. Your safety and well-being is our utmost priority.

We want to validate the range of emotions you may be experiencing right now. As you move through these emotions, we want to encourage you to learn about your rights, have access to resources you may need, and be moved to give back and take action.

Learn More

Jessica Ravitz of CNN briefly chronicled the history of abortion policy in the United States. We encourage all members to read up on this history. Context matters, as these policies rarely happen in a vacuum and are typically motivated by actors seeking power and influence.

https://www.cnn.com/2016/06/23/health/abortion-history-in-united-states/index.html

If you would prefer to watch a documentary instead, Reversing Roe is available via Netflix. Through interviews with community leaders that both support and oppose abortion access, you can learn more about the 50-year historical trajectory of Roe v. Wade and abortion policy in the United States.

https://www.netflix.com/title/80192834

Jaclyn Diaz and colleagues at NPR addressed a few misconceptions and incomplete narratives in this article entitled “7 Persistent Claims About Abortion, Fact-Checked.” As leaders, we must always be willing to expand our opinions and think deeper about where they come from and why they exist.

https://www.npr.org/2022/05/06/1096676197/7-persistent-claims-about-abortion-fact-checked

Healthcare Resources

The Center for Reproductive Rights’s “What if Roe fell?” tool examines several legal factors— including laws, constitutions, and court decisions on abortion—and assigns each state, territory, and the District of Columbia to one of four categories: Expanded Access, Protected, Not Protected, and Hostile. Please use this interactive tool to find out more about where you live.

https://reproductiverights.org/maps/what-if-roe-fell/ 

Indigenous Women Rising is committed to honoring Native & Indigenous People’s inherent right to equitable and culturally-safe health options through accessible health education, resources, and advocacy. Indigenous Women Rising creates the space for Indigenous people to tell their own stories, on their terms, as an act of resistance, self love, and love for ancestors and family.

https://www.iwrising.org/

The Women’s Reproductive Rights Assistance Project (WRRAP) is an all-volunteer organization created in 1991 by the Los Angeles section of the National Council of Jewish Women. WRRAP raises money for low-income women of all ages, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds who are unable to pay for either emergency contraception or safe and legal abortion.

https://www.wrrap.org/

Give Back

As you consider opportunities for individual service and chapter-wide service initiatives in the upcoming academic year, think about the ways you could contribute to community healthcare organizations. While Planned Parenthood does engage in important work, contributing time and funds to local organizations can lead to more localized, immediate solutions.

Many of these organizations have social media accounts where they launch awareness campaigns and offer ways to get involved. Check out some of the following on Instagram (this list is not exhaustive):

In closing, we want to reemphasize our commitment to choice. People deserve autonomy over their bodies and a full spectrum of choices toward healthcare. We could easily use this moment to disengage and fall back, and that is valid. However, we want to encourage you, our members, to let this moment catalyse you toward service and advocacy.

More importantly, to our sxsters who have had to–and will in the future–navigate these choices for themselves: We see you, and we love you. And you are not alone.

In Sxsterhood,

Your National Cabinet

---

https://www.politico.com/news/2022/05/02/read-justice-alito-initial-abortion-opinion-overturn-roe-v-wade-pdf-00029504
** https://www.npr.org/2022/05/03/1096094942/roe-wade-overturned-what-happens-next

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Celebrates 35 Years
Posted by Stephanie Sierra on April 1, 2022

For 35 years, Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc., has embodied the values of Unity, Honesty, Integrity, and Leadership. Since our humble beginnings at Texas Tech University on April 6th, 1987, our organization has grown tremendously and become a second home to thousands of members throughout our over 80 alumnae and collegiate chapters across the nation. 

 

We celebrate our achievements and the impact we have had in our communities by reflecting on the moments that were brought to us because of Kappa Delta Chi. This year, our theme for Founding Week is KDChi Holds a Few of Our Favorite Things. During Founding Week, we invite members to share their favorite moments and participate in our virtual social media spirit week by using the hashtags #KDChi35 and #KDChiFavoriteseach day to connect and share as we reflect on our organization and the moments that have become our favorite memories. 

 

The social media activities are as follows: 

 

Sunday, April 3rd, 2022: Favorite Rush/Recruitment Memory

Monday, April 4th, 2022: Favorite Memory as a New Member

Tuesday, April 5th, 2022: Favorite Service Event

Wednesday, April 6th, 2022: Cheers to 35 Years

Thursday, April 7th, 2022: Favorite Social Event 

Friday, April 8th, 2022: Favorite KDChi Gear 

Saturday, April 9th, 2022: Favorite Membership Bond 

 

Thank you to our founding members for creating our organization and the thousands of members who came after who continue to move this organization forward and create a second family to make memories with throughout our lives. We loved the past 35 years and can’t wait to celebrate the decades to come. 

 

Happy 35th Anniversary, Penguins! 

 

Katrina Armijo

Vice President of Public Affairs

Fighting Back Against Anti-LGBTQ Misinformation, Hate, and Action in Texas & Florida
Posted by Stephanie Sierra on March 26, 2022

On Friday, February 18, 2022, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton released a non-binding opinion that under current Texas state law, gender-affirming procedures for nonbinary and transgender youth are to be classified as child abuse. Texas Governor Greg Abbott followed this release with his own letter to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), falsely claiming that Attorney General Ken Paxton’s opinion confirms anything about the state of gender-affirming care in Texas. 

Many other state governments and leaders have attempted to block gender-affirming care and education for LGBTQ+ students, such as Florida’s “Parental Rights in Education” bill, which has been colloquially known as the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill, which prohibits schools from providing student support to LGBTQ+ students, as well as banning all education regarding sexual orientation and gender identity through Grade 3, and prevents educators from witholding information about a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity from the child’s parents1,3.

Similar actions, opinions, and legislation have been proposed in several other states.

Misinformation surrounding the aforementioned state actions has led to an increase of fear, despair, and overall stigma related to LGBTQ+ rights. The Social Justice Committee has compiled some concerns that have been brought before us to help increase understanding about the actions taken in Texas and Florida, specifically, as well as the rights and responsibilities for LGBTQ+ children, students, and their caretakers. While I cannot provide you with legal advice or direction, I can attempt to demystify and debunk some inaccurate information propagated by the actions taken by aforementioned state leaders, as well as direct you on how you can learn more and ways you can help the LGBTQ+ community. 

 

Clarifying Misconceptions

According to the Child Welfare League of America, “Providing appropriate, compassionate medical care for your child is not child abuse. We know that youth who identify as LGBTQ are at greater risk of homelessness, substance use disorders, mental illness, suicide ideation and attempts, trauma, and other negative outcomes than their peers; the right to receive individualized, evidence-based, identity-affirming care from their doctors and other medical providers saves lives.”7,10

AG Paxton’s opinion relies heavily on the use of what he calls “sterilization procedures” for children that infringe upon their right to procreate6. However, he almost exclusively refers to puberty/hormone blockers which, by their nature, temporarily prevent a child from reaching sexual maturity. Puberty/hormone blockers are considered fully reversible by medical literature.15,16

Gender-affirming care used by doctors for medical transitioning must meet the same safety requirements of other medications or surgeries, meaning that minors must have parental consent, as well as be endorsed and recommended by a competent medical doctor, with an active medical license, according to the Texas Occupational Code, Title 314. The option of surgery, especially genital surgery, is typically only offered to fully-developed adults who have exhausted all other options of social transitioning and to alleviate distress related to gender dysphoria11. The inclusion of such procedures in any opinions or statements from government leaders is extraneous, appears to be written in bad faith, and causes undue distress to members of the LGBTQ+ community.

In the follow-up letter from Texas Governor Greg Abbott, the governor brings up hormone replacement and puberty blockers, which may be offered to minors who have reached a minimum stage of growth (around 9-11 years of age)15. However, as previously discussed, allegations that these two forms of gender-affirming care are child abuse rely on claims made by AG Paxton that (a) puberty blockers are irreversible, and (b) hormone replacements cause sterility. Neither claim is consistent with medical literature 15, 16. 

 

Implications for Families

Several educators, mandatory reporters, collegians, and other child caregivers have approached me and other members of the Social Justice Committee with questions about the Texas governor’s demand that the Department of Family Protective Services (DFPS) launch investigations into suspected instances of “elective procedures for gender transitioning, including reassignment surgeries that can cause sterilization, mastectomies, removals of otherwise healthy body parts, and administration of puberty-blocking drugs or supraphysiologic doses of testosterone or estrogen”5. 

This letter does not address social transitioning at all, which can include: (a) referring to a child by their proper pronouns; (b) allowing a child to wear clothing they find most comfortable and gender-affirming; (c) allowing a child to seek mental health care related to LGBTQ+ rights, as well as mental health treatment for gender dysphoria; (d) allowing children to engage in social play and age-appropriate social, romantic, and physical relationships; and (e) inquiring about gender-affirming care. None of these actions fit the criteria for the Texas Administrative Code’s definitions of child abuse and neglect17, 8. 

Many parents of transgender or gender nonconforming children have expressed concern that the governor’s statement will cause the undue removal of their child from their home. At this time, the DFPS maintains that removal of a child is a last resort and is typically only recommended in cases of severe and well-documented physical abuse and neglect4. DFPS caseworkers are human beings and evaluate the level of evidence that supports imminent danger and harm to a child when they receive reports of child abuse. Should you feel you and your family are being subjected to a fraudulent claim, please seek legal counsel. I have linked some LGBTQ+-affirming legal resources below.

How to Help

Anti-LGBTQ+ activity in Texas and Florida has already received legal pushback9. For instance, while public school teachers have limited first amendment rights2, children of all ages have a constitutional right to free speech in the classroom1,2. This means that the State of Florida cannot legally suppress discussion of any subject between students, calling into question the constitutionality of the bill. Due to the fact that the bill has not yet been signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, it has not yet gone into effect; opponents of the bill expect official challenges to occur once the bill has been signed1. 

If you would like to show your opposition to these actions, or any other action taken in opposition to LGBTQ+ rights in your state, you are encouraged to publicly show your support for your LGBTQ+ community members. Call your local and state legislators – who work for you, their constituents – and inform them of your stance. Utilize your time and talent to bring awareness and support, raise funds for LGBTQ+ resource centers, especially legal funds and mental health treatment centers for LGBTQ+ youth. There are several of these resources and legal funds, for your own use or for those who could use your support, linked in this document. 

Kappa Delta Chi continues to center, support, and affirm the lived experiences and identities of the entire LGBTQ+ community, especially those of whom are our sxsters and members. If you have any questions or need support or resources, please email me. And please know that you can always turn to our sxsterhood, because we will continue to fight for you. You belong, and you are loved. To our sxsters not a part of the LGBTQ+ community, I urge you to remember: serving our community means serving our entirecommunity. 

 

In Love and Friendship, 




Victoria Pentecost-Cliffe 

VP Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Incorporated

Diversity@KappaDeltaChi.org

 

P.S. 
This letter, as well as the resource list below, can also be viewed/downloaded in pdf form and on our national letterhead here.

 

 

Resources

Gender-Affirming Care in Texas: What Parents and Guardians Need to Know
https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.texaspsyc.org/resource/resmgr/2022/eblasts/Texas_Fact_Sheet_on_Gender-A.pdf 

Legal Funds:
http://www.pridelawfund.org/#:~:text=Pride%20Law%20Fund%20(PLF)%20has,advocacy%20organizations%20across%20the%20country.
https://www.lambdalegal.org/
https://www.state.gov/global-equality-fund/

LGBTQ+ Legal Help:

https://www.hrc.org/
https://lgbtqbar.org/about/gethelp/
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

LGBTQ+ Mental Health: 
https://pride-institute.com/
https://www.pridecounseling.com/
https://www.aasect.org/referral-directory
http://www.glma.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.ViewPage&PageID=939
https://restforresistance.com/ 

Crisis/Suicide Prevention Hotlines
Trans Lifeline - 877-565-8860
LGBT National Youth Talkline - 1-800-246-7743
TrevorLifeline - 1-866-488-7386
TrevorText - Text START to 678-678
Crisis Text Line* - Text HOME to 741741
GLBT National Hotline - 1-888-843-4564

Resources that serve LGBTQ+ folks 

https://www.glsen.org/resources/student-and-gsa-resources
http://www.glma.org/
https://truecolorsunited.org/
https://pflag.org/ (Also for parents of LGBTQ+ children) 
https://www.qchatspace.org/
https://itgetsbetter.org/
https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/i-stand-by-you-with-lizette-drew-lizette-j9RvIAste6i/


References

  1. https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/law-and-life/understanding-floridas-dont-say-gay-bill/
  2. https://www.findlaw.com/education/teachers-rights/teachers-different-freedoms-and-rights.html
  3. https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2022/1557/?Tab=BillHistory
  4. http://parentresourceguide.texaschildrenscommission.gov/library_item/gov.texaschildrenscommission.parent_resource_guide/10#:~:text=CPS%20can%20only%20remove%20your,let%20CPS%20remove%20your%20child
  5. https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/press/O-MastersJaime202202221358.pdf
  6. https://texasattorneygeneral.gov/sites/default/files/opinion-files/opinion/2022/kp-0401_0.pdf
  7. https://www.cwla.org/child-welfare-league-of-america-opposes-redefining-child-abuse-to-include-gender-affirming-care/
  8. https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/news-stories/gender-affirming-care-is-healthcare-not-child-abuse/
  9. https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2022/03/11/judge-asked-block-abbott-order-transgender-affirming-therapy-child-abuse/6995409001/
  10. https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org/news/gender-affirming-care-saves-lives
  11. https://www.statesman.com/story/news/politics/2019/11/11/fact-check-what-does-law-say-about-children-and-sex-reassignment-surgery/984431007/
  12. https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2021/mar/05/viral-image/no-young-children-cannot-take-hormones-or-change-t/
  13. https://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:VC9El8oVTugJ:https://www.houstonchronicle.com/politics/texas/article/Fact-check-Does-Texas-law-allow-transition-14838799.php+&cd=12&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us
  14. https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?link=OC
  15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7656150/#R6
  16. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/145/2/e20191606/68237/Long-term-Puberty-Suppression-for-a-Nonbinary 
  17. https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.TacPage?sl=R&app=9&p_dir=&p_rloc=&p_tloc=&p_ploc=&pg=1&p_tac=&ti=26&pt=1&ch=510&rl=46 
Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Vanessa Guillen Statement
Posted by Katrina Arroyos Armijo on July 4, 2020

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. expresses our condolences to the family of Vanessa Guillen and we are heartbroken at the systems which failed her and her family. Vanessa, and all persons in the military, deserve to feel safe and empowered in reporting any instances of sexual violence. 

 

Junior enlisted women are at the highest risk of sexual assault in the military. The most recent report on sexual assault in the military was released by the Department of Defense in 2018. The report lists troubling statistics. According to the report, the national odds that a woman will be sexually assaulted in her lifetime are 1 in 17. But for young military women ages 17 to 20, it is 1 in 8. And for 21- to 24-year-olds, it is 1 in 11. Further, 43% of women who did reported sexual violence had a negative experience.

 

In a historically misogynistic and violent system such as the military, women, particularly women of color, are too often violated with impunity. We demand that Congress thoroughly investigate and enact real change to address the violence inherent in the military industrial complex. 

 

We urge our members to contact their Congressional representatives demand they change the way that the military handles reports and investigates sexual violence by moving forward with the Military Justice Improvement Act. This act is designed to professionalize how the military prosecutes serious crimes like sexual assault, and to remove the systemic fear that survivors of military sexual assault describe in deciding whether to report the crimes committed against them. Repeated testimony from survivors and former commanders says that the widespread reluctance on the part of survivors to come forward and report is due to the bias and inherent conflicts of interest posed by the military chain of command’s sole decision-making power over whether cases move forward to a trial.

 

Text your zip code to 502-200-2223 to find your Representatives in Congress or search: www.usa.gov/elected-officials

 

#niunamas 

 

 

Sources: 

 

 https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/05/02/despite-efforts-sexual-assaults-nearly-40-us-military.html

 

 

https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/1831742/dod-sexual-assault-prevention-and-response-what-you-need-to-know/

 

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Sexual Assault Statement
Posted by Katrina Arroyos Armijo on July 4, 2020

Sexual Assault Statement

 

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. is adamantly opposed to all acts of sexual misconduct and relational violence.  Moreover, we believe in our values of Unity, Honesty, Integrity and Leadership which provide  unconditional support of our members at all times, including those who are survivors of sexual assault and dating violence. As an organization with collegiate members, we are dismayed by the changes in Title IX that will go in effect August 2020. The policy changes will create barriers for survivors of sexual violence to report sexual violence and hold perpatrators accountable.  The new changes also limit the scope of reports that colleges are required to investigate and provide greater protections for perpetrators.

 

Our organization is committed to working with our university and greek organizational partners to revisit concerns within and among our organizations relating to sexual assault. The National Association of Latino Fratnernal Organizations (“NALFO”) has organized a Sexual Assault Awareness Campaign and Action Committee to explore actionable items and policies, programming, and collaboration to protect our members and hold perpetrators accountable. 

 

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. will never condone sexual misconduct committed against our members or by our members. Below is a list of resources from our Mental Health and Wellness Guide (available at www.kappadeltachi.org):

 

  • National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline

1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Website: https://hotline.rainn.org/

When you call, you’ll be routed to a local RAINN affiliate organization based on the first six  digits of your phone number. Cell phone callers have the option to enter the ZIP code of their current location to more accurately locate the nearest sexual assault service provider.

 

  • National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) Website: 

https://www.trynova.org/help-for-crime-victims/

Provides comprehensive victims’ assistance resources from advocacy to legal assistance. Also includes resources for survivors of mass casualty and offers victim compensation services.

 

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-7233; TTY 1-800-787-3224

https://www.thehotline.org/

For crisis and counseling services, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Hotline advocates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to provide confidential crisis






5 on the 5th
Posted by Kenya Bener on May 4, 2020

NALFO was tapped last week to participate in a mental health and wellness initiative called 5onthe5. The idea behind this initiative is that on May 5th each of us pledges to connect with 5 other people, check in on them, and take a moment to just listen. During this time of high stress and anxiety the organizers behind this campaign wanted us to feel a little more together.

Who will you reach out to on the 5th? We’re looking forward to getting as much participation as possible!

5onthe5_final event video.mp4

 

Response to COVID-19
Posted by Kenya Bener on March 18, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information, Contact:

Paula Arno Martinez, president@kappadeltachi.org

 

It is understandably a time of high tension and anxiety. Members’ lives have been disrupted and there are many things to worry about. KDChi should not be one of those things right now. In an effort to place emphasis on health and safety, we are asking members to focus on their personal lives. For the next two weeks, don't worry about KDChi requirements (including completing hours, paying dues). There are no final decisions on these items. 

We will continue to monitor the situation and determine what is the most feasible solution for our membership. Since things are changing on a daily basis, we cannot say what that will look like at this time. No one will automatically lose their status. We truly have your best interests at heart, which is why we are asking you to take care of yourselves. 

By April 1st, the National Administrative Council will communicate next steps and we will take it a day at a time. We will work with you and get through these trying times. Please use this time to focus your energy on your mental and physical health while we all grapple with the impacts of COVID-19.

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Statement on Coronavirus
Posted by Kenya Bener on March 11, 2020
Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Statement on Coronavirus 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact: 
Paula Arno Martinez, president@kappadeltachi.org 
 

National Leadership is aware of concerns regarding Regional Conferences and the coronavirus. Individual members who choose not to attend their Regional Conference due to coronavirus concerns will not be penalized and it will be considered an excused absence with the expectation to attend the Regional Conference virtually. At this point we will leave it up to the individual regions to decide whether or not to cancel their Regional Conference.


For Regional Conferences that are cancelled, nationals will be able to assist the host chapter in recuperating any cancellation fees incurred from hotel and/or catering services. Host chapters will be responsible for issuing any refunds to individuals, if feasible, and, before any cutoff dates. 


We are aware that some universities have cancelled in-person classes and other events. If this applies to your university then please contact your District Chair, Regional Director, or Chapter Development Officer. Your chapter will not be penalized for missing events, service, or study hours. If a member chooses to self-quarantine, they will not be penalized for missing events, service, or study hours regardless of whether the university has cancelled in-person classes or other events. Any missed events or hours will be rolled over to the next semester/quarter or until the health advisories deem safe. However, we encourage everyone to continue with their scheduled events and follow precautions and recommendations from the Central for Disease Control (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html). 


We understand university regulations may impact chapters and colonies that are currently conducting intake. For any universities that have shut down or no longer allow in-person events, New Members will be able to apply for, and be granted, holdover status. For universities that continue to allow for in-person programming, the New Member Education process will continue as planned. The Intake Division is prepared to work with each chapter and colony for accommodations if needed, depending on current university protocol. Please contact the New Member Education Officer or Vice President of Intake for assistance. 


As a reminder, please keep in mind the following:


  • The risk to the general public in the United States is considered low at this time.

  • While there is currently no vaccine, the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is similar to how you’d take precautions against the cold or flu.

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick

  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or the crook of your elbow, rather than your hands – and throw the tissue away immediately.

  • Wash your hands often using soap and water for at least 20 seconds

  • There is no need to wear a face mask if you are well and do not have symptoms.


We are closely following developments related to the coronavirus, including travel guidelines and health advisories, and will notify members of any additional guidance.

 

KAPPA DELTA CHI SORORITY TAKES STAND AGAINST DISCRIMINATION, ANNOUNCES COMMITTEE FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Posted by Alicia Bustillos on May 16, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact:
Paula Arno Martinez, bod4@kappadeltachi.org
 
 
 

KAPPA DELTA CHI SORORITY TAKES STAND AGAINST DISCRIMINATION, ANNOUNCES COMMITTEE FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

LUBBOCK, Texas (May 6, 2018) – Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. has announced the creation of a new committee for diversity, equity and inclusion. Responding to larger trends in the country’s social environment, the organization aims to safeguard its sisterhood experience for all current and future members.

 

The organization is taking a stand against discrimination to provide the best space for its membership and hopes that others in the fraternity and sorority community will do the same.

Together, we can nurture a sisterhood of sisters supporting each other for generations to come,” said the founders of Kappa Delta Chi Sorority in a unified statement.

“We recognize that not all of our members feel supported and heard,” said Paula Arno Martinez, Alumna-at-Large for the Kappa Delta Chi Sorority national board of directors. “It is our intention to create an environment where all members feel safe and supported.”

The new committee will directly report to Arno Martinez – working to review, advise and coordinate diversity issues in ways that celebrate the differences throughout its membership and continue to build a welcoming environment for women from both mainstream and underrepresented communities.

“We are a sisterhood of women from diverse backgrounds who bring forth many different intersectionalities,” said Kappa Delta Chi Sorority National President Melanie Rodriguez. “I am excited about the ways that this committee will help us all support one another better and grow stronger within our sisterhood.”

Selected for their experience and demonstrated commitment to social justice, diversity, equity and inclusion; the committee will be tasked with developing strategic initiatives that create new conflict-management training, educational materials and programming for undergraduate chapters and alumnae members.

Latina-founded in Lubbock, Texas at Texas Tech University in 1987, Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. has since grown to include nearly 5,500 sisters across 19 states – representing numerous cultures, ethnicities and religions throughout the United States.

A non-traditional sorority, Kappa Delta Chi strives to promote the values of unity, honesty, integrity and leadership among its members, helping to empower devoted leaders and civic stewards in their communities. Together, the national membership serves local U.S. communities annually with more than 40,000 hours of volunteerism.

For more information about Kappa Delta Chi Sorority’s ongoing efforts to support diversity, equity and inclusion in the fraternity and sorority communities or to find out how you can be involved with the organization, please e-mail Paula Arno Martinez at bod4@kappadeltachi.org.

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. Supports a Woman's Right to Report
Posted by Mari Lara on April 12, 2019

College women are at high risk of sexual assault by acquaintances and dates. Among undergraduate students, 23.1% of females experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitate. The risk of sexual assault among sorority women is likely to be as great, if not greater, than that for the general female undergraduate population.

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. supports a woman's right to report and seek a fair, supportive, and timely due process. As a sisterhood, we will provide unconditional support of our sisters who are survivors of sexual assault and dating violence. We commit to advocating in support of sister empowerment, risk reduction and educating out members and non-members to prevent sexual assault on our campuses and in our communities.

We are specifically aware of posts by members of Omega Delta Phi in closed groups targeted toward our members that are homophobic, misogynistic, and promote sexual violence. As an organization, we do not accept this behavior toward out members and eagerly await to see the actions ODPhi will take to hold its members accountable.

As sisters, we are committed to supporting out sisters, friends, and all those who have experienced sexual violence. If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault, it may be difficult to know what to do next. You can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) or visit online.rainn.org and receive confidential support.

Attachment: https://www.rainn.org/sites/default/files/SelfCareOnePageRAINN_1.pdf

Looking for ways to Honor Women's History Month? We got a few.
Posted by Alicia Bustillos on March 1, 2019

Looking for ways to Honor Women's History Month?

We got a few ideas.  

By Alicia Bustillos, VP Public Affairs 

March is Women’s History Month and looking back at some of the amazing things women have accomplished in history (especially in the last year) can bring up some feelings of, what can I do to celebrate Women’s History Month? How can I honor my fellow woman?

Kappa Delta Chi is united through service, and one of the best ways to celebrate this month is by serving your fellow women. Here is one way I plan on celebrating Women’s History Month and a few others that can make a huge impact on your communities.

1) Make Blessing Bags

I’ve pledged to make five Blessing Bags and keep them in my vehicle for when I see a woman in need. Blessing Bags are purses or zip-top bags that are handed out to homeless women filled with items that are often items that are forgotten about that women specifically need. Some of these things include:

  • Water
  • Snacks
  • Feminine Hygiene Produces (Tampons or Pads)
  • Socks
  • Pain Medicine (Individual packets of Advil or Tylenol)
  • A razor
  • Toothbrush/toothpaste
  • Comb
  • Antibacterial Wipes
  • And many other ideas

Your local city may have ordinances about handing out items to the homeless, especially if it contains any food, or you may not feel safe doing this. Another idea is to commit to making several of these as a chapter and donating to a local women’s shelter.

If your local shelter has policies against open packages, look into donating some of these items in larger quantities. Things like tampons, pads, and socks are some of the least donated items and most needed.

2) Support Future History Makers

She Should Run is a national nonprofit “a national network changing culture to inspire more women and girls to run for office.” They provide leader activity guides to inspire the next generation of leaders. The current goal right now? To get 250,000 women running for elected office by 2030. #250Kby2030

3) Girls on the Run

Searching for a more physically active movement? Girls on the Run is a national program that was built on the ideas of inspiring girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. The 10-week program culminates with the Girls on the Run 5K which is the celebratory event that underscores the confidence, competence, connection, character and caring they’ve been developing in the program and gives them a tangible sense of goal setting and achievement.

4) Women for Women International

Women for Women International has helped more than 462,000 marginalized women in countries affected by war and conflict. We serve women in 8 countries offering support, tools, and access to life-changing skills to move from crisis and poverty to stability and economic self-sufficiency. There are several ways to get involved by becoming an ambassador, sponsoring a sister and raising critical awareness of this wonderful organization.

5) End the Backlong

End the Backlog is a program of the Joyful Heart Foundation, a national non-profit organization founded by actress and activist Mariska Hargitay with the mission to heal, educate and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, and to shed light into the darkness that surrounds these issues. This initiative needs all the help they can get to help campaign your local legislative, advocacy for continued support of the federal Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) grants and other critical grant programs on Capitol Hill and education and awareness.

These are just a few ways to support women this month while honoring Women’s History Month. We’d love to hear what you and your chapter are doing this month in celebrating. Let us know in the comments sections of our social media.

 Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. is a Latina founded, 501 c 7, national sorority who aims to achieve professional development, academic excellence, and graduation of all its members; an organization dedicated to community service to their local university communities with an emphasis on the Hispanic/Latino population. 
Three things we can all do to honor Black History Month in February and beyond
Posted by Alicia Bustillos on March 1, 2019

Three things we can all do to honor Black History Month in February and beyond  

 1) Support Black Authors

Children’s books, young adult, novels, the gift of literature pays back in leaps and bounds. Not only are you supporting the author but you share the art of storytelling, especially theirs. You don’t have to just purchase books for your own collection, donate to local schools and libraries. Volunteer to read to children or senior citizens in your community. Some books to look up:

  •   I Am Enough, by by Grace Byers 
    This is a gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another—from Empire actor and activist Grace Byers and talented newcomer artist Keturah A. Bobo. This is the perfect gift for mothers and daughters, baby showers, and graduation. We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it.

 

  • Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, by Vashti Harrison 
    Featuring forty trailblazing black women in American history, Little Leaders educates and inspires as it relates true stories of breaking boundaries and achieving beyond expectations. Illuminating text paired with irresistible illustrations bring to life both iconic and lesser-known female figures of Black history such as abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman, chemist Alice Ball, politician Shirley Chisholm, mathematician Katherine Johnson, poet Maya Angelou, and filmmaker Julie Dash. 
  • Mango Delight, by by Fracaswell Hyman
    What happens when your BFF becomes your EFF . . . EX-Friend-Forever? When seventh-grader Mango Delight Fuller accidentally breaks her BFF Brooklyn’s new cell phone, her life falls apart. She loses her friends and her spot on the track team, and even costs her father his job as a chef. But Brooklyn’s planned revenge—sneakily signing up Mango to audition for the school musical—backfires when Mango not only wins the lead role but becomes a YouTube sensation and attracts the attention of the school’s queen bee, Hailey Jo. Hailey Jo is from a VERY wealthy family and expects everyone to do her bidding. Soon Mango finds herself forced to make tough choices about the kind of friend she wants to have . . . and, just as important, the kind of friend she wants to be.

  •   Marley Dias Gets It Done, by Marley Dias
    Marley Dias, the powerhouse girl-wonder who started the #1000blackgirlbooks campaign, speaks to kids about her passion for making our world a better place, and how to make their dreams come true!
    In this accessible guide with an introduction by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Ava DuVernay, Marley Dias explores activism, social justice, volunteerism, equity and inclusion, and using social media for good. 

 

  • A Blade So Black, by L.L. McKinney 
    The first time the Nightmares came, it nearly cost Alice her life. Now she's trained to battle monstrous creatures in the dark dream realm known as Wonderland with magic weapons and hardcore fighting skills. Yet even warriors have a curfew. Life in real-world Atlanta isn't always so simple, as Alice juggles an overprotective mom, a high-maintenance best friend, and a slipping GPA. Keeping the Nightmares at bay is turning into a full-time job. But when Alice's handsome and mysterious mentor is poisoned, she has to find the antidote by venturing deeper into Wonderland than she’s ever gone before. And she'll need to use everything she's learned in both worlds to keep from losing her head . . . literally.

 

2) Support Black Movies

Want to catch a movie instead? Supporting movies produced, directed and featuring black creatives shows Hollywood that representation matters on the big screen and the little screen. Major blockbusters are one thing, but also seek out independent, documentary films to share with family and friends to create positive discussion and bring awareness to the subjects at hand. Work with your school or community center to organize a movie night attending or featuring one of these movies:

 

  • Black Panther
    One of the most anticipated Marvel movies of the year is coming out in 2018. With an all-star cast and Marvel Studios producing, Black Panther is anticipated to be one of the top-grossing movies of 2018.
  •  Dark Girls
    DARK GIRLS is a fascinating and controversial film that goes underneath the surface to explore the prejudices dark-skinned women face throughout the world. It explores the roots of classism, racism and the lack of self-esteem within a segment of cultures that span from America to the most remote corners of the globe. Women share their personal stories, touching on deeply ingrained beliefs and attitudes of society while allowing generations to heal as they learn to love themselves for who they are.
  • Moonlight
    A moving, transcendent, award-winning look at 3 defining chapters in the life of Chiron, a young man growing up in Miami. His epic journey to adulthood, as a shy outsider dealing with difficult circumstances, is guided by support, empathy and love from the most unexpected places.
  • More Than A Month
    In this 2012 documentary, African American filmmaker Shukree Hassan Tilghman sets off on a journey across America asking the question “Should Black History Month be ended?” Tilghman searches to learn more about race and power in contemporary America by interviewing experts at revered organizations around the country in addition to everyday people he meets along the way during his journey.

    Using cinema verité, man-on-the-street interviews, and dramatizations to understand the implications of Black History Month, More Than a Month is both an amusing and thought-provoking look at what the treatment of history tells us about race and power in the United States. Through all this, Tilghman explores what it means to be an American and the universal endeavor to find one’s self.
  • Hidden Figures
    An incredible & inspiring untold true story about three women at NASA who were instrumental in one of history’s greatest operations – the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit.

 

3) Support Black Non-Profits in your community

Activists are hard at work year around advocating for equal rights. While every organization needs monetary support, volunteering your time is always welcomed at non-profits who are running on low resources. Some organizations that welcome support:

 

  • Black Girls CODE
    Black Girls CODE is devoted to showing the world that black girls can code, and do so much more. By reaching out to the community through workshops and after-school programs, Black Girls GODE introduces computer coding lessons to young girls from underrepresented communities in programming languages such as Scratch or Ruby on Rails. Black Girls CODE has set out to prove to the world that girls of every color have the skills to become the programmers of tomorrow.
  • Sister Love, Inc.
    SisterLove is working to eradicate the impact of HIV and sexual and reproductive oppressions upon all women and their communities in the US and around the world. The organization offers HIV testing and counseling, health education and advocacy programs, and international and leadership programs. 
  • Incite!: Women of Color Against Violence
    INCITE! is a nation-wide network of radical feminists of color working to end violence against women, gender non-conforming, and trans people of color, and our communities. We support each other through direct action, critical dialogue, and grassroots organizing. 
  • Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
    Jack and Jill of America is an organization created to provide social, cultural and educational opportunities for youth between the ages of 2 and 19. They are dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.
  • Seek out some local nonprofits
    Find local nonprofit organization in your community through your local library, town hall, university or online through websites such as guidestar.org.

While Black History Month is officially the month of February it’s important to support throughout the year and seek out ways to support each other. These are just a few examples of support, tell us how you honor Black History Month.

Rho Chapter sister Samantha Rose Alvarez to be inducted into the Omega Chapter
Posted by Alicia Bustillos on February 18, 2019

Rho Chapter sister Samantha Rose Alvarez to be inducted into the Omega Chapter

Kennewick, WA (February 2, 2018) – Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. is mourning the passing of Rho chapter sister Samantha Rose Alvarez, 31, who passed on December 20, 2017.

Samantha was born December 10, 1986, and attended Washington State University where she studied Women's Studies and Social Sciences. While attending, Samantha was a member of the Rho chapter of KDChi and was initiated in the fall of 2001 as part of the Omicron class.

 

Samantha is survived by her parents, mother Virginia Romero and father Gabriel Lopez Alvarez; siblings MaryAngel Mendoza and husband Frank Mendoza, Sabina Romero Peters and husband Eric Peters, Thelma Trevino and husband Nick Trevino, brother Edgar Alvarez, sister Magdala Alvarez, Felix Alvarez and wife April, sister Melissa Alvarez, and brother Gabriel Francisco Alvarez Jr. She will be inducted into KDChi's Omega Chapter at the North Pacific Regional Conference in the spring of 2018.

The following dedications are from Rho chapter sisters who wanted to share just how special Samantha was not only as a sister but as a daughter, sibling, cousin and friend.

 

"Samantha aka Bawse Lady was the heart and soul for our chapter. I remember introducing KDChi to her and when it came to rushing there was no other way. I was proud on her initiation day because she was not only my blood sister but also my KDChi sister. I am proud of the woman she became into smart, strong, independent. Samantha loved KDChi and always held the values of our sisterhood dear to her Heart. She lived and breathed KDChi until Her Final Days. I Know She is In Heaven Strolling, Chanting, Throwing Up Her Kappa. So farewell my baby sister until we meet again. 19..."
Sister Melissa Alvarez, Rho chapter Fall 2003 

 

 

"Samantha joined Kappa Delta Chi in Fall of 2007 and was part of the Omicron Class. She was the glue of our chapter. She served as the bridge between older generations in KDChi and incoming members. Sisters looked up to her for her no-nonsense advice and can-do attitude. She was honest, caring, compassionate and the life of the party. She was a servant leader; putting others ahead of herself. She leaves a hole in our hearts and an unfillable void in our sisterhood."

Judith Hernandez, Rho Chapter Fall 2007

 

Kappa Delta Chi sister appointed to the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations, Inc. Executive Board
Posted by Alicia Bustillos on February 17, 2019

Kappa Delta Chi sister appointed to the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations, Inc. Executive Board  

Austin, Texas (February 5, 2017) – Kappa Delta Chi Sorority, Inc. is proud to announce the appointment of KDChi sister Bel Pedroza, to the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations, Inc. (NALFO) executive board as Executive Vice President.
 
 
 
Bel is an alumna of the Alpha Iota chapter at Texas A&M International University.  Bel later transferred to the University of North Texas where she graduated in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Criminalistics.  Bel then obtained her master’s degree in 2017 from Tiffin University in Crime Analysis. Bel is currently employed by the Texas Department of Public Safety as a Crime Analyst.
 
Bel is also the current VP of Records on KDChi's National Administrative Council. We are very proud of Bel and know that she will thrive as the NALFO Executive Vice President.Please join us in congratulating Bel on this new and exciting endeavor! 
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