Alpha Chi Omega to start accepting transgender women
As societal perceptions of gender identity progresses, Alpha Chi Omega embraced the changing cultural attitudes by announcing its nationwide plan to start accepting transgender women into the sorority.
Angela Costley Harris, Alpha Chi Omega’s national president, publicized the policy change in a video and letter sent to all members on Feb. 17.
“Alpha Chi Omega is a women’s organization,” Harris explained in the video, “But to stay relevant in today’s world, Alpha Chi must be inclusive of all who live and identify as women regardless of their gender assigned at birth.”
The inclusion mission was inspired after the sorority’s headquarters received a magnitude of questions from chapters across the country regarding transgender membership, Harris said. She then asserted the decision out of "desire to create a sorority experience that more fully reflects the realities of today's women in today's world."
“We recognize that for some of our sisters, embracing this position means adopting a new mindset,” she concluded. “And as our understanding of gender identity evolves, so must Alpha Chi Omega.”
Central Michigan University’s Alpha Chi Omega chapter declined to comment on the announcement in adherence to the national organization’s policy. However, the sorority’s leadership on campus expressed pride in the nation-wide inclusive efforts.
Questions regarding the statement may be directed to Alpha Chi Omega headquarters by telephone at (317) 579-5050, or by email at axoinfo@alphachiomega.org.
