One of America’s oldest frat houses opens up membership to trans men
For the first time ever one of America’s oldest fraternities has opted to allow out trans men into its membership.
Chi Phi, one of the oldest fraternities in the US, has declared that anybody legally recognised as male is eligible for membership.
“We felt this amendment to Chi Phi’s Constitution would change the conversation surrounding transgender men and their ability to join the Fraternity,” said Sam Borchart, undergraduate chairman of the Committee of Membership in a statement.
“One change is never a stopping point, and we hope this opens the door to further discussion about inclusivity, particularly for transgender men who want to join us in brotherhood.”
The change in its policy, while a positive step, may prove difficult for trans men living in jurisdictions which make it difficult to have their gender identity legally recognised.
“All educational programs and facilities, including Greek life, should be open to trans and all students,” said Mara Keisling, Executive Director for the National Center for Transgender Equality told ABC News.
“We would caution the fraternity that their use of the ‘valid legal documentation’ as a definition of who may join Chi Phi still will limit many of the people they hope to expand to include.”
Nonetheless, the move has been praised, as Chi Phi has had members including governors, senators and congressmen.
