Swarthmore College Bans Fraternities and Sororities on Campus

"Exclusive and paid social organizations are no longer responding effectively to the needs of our liberal arts home environment," Smith said in his message Friday. His decision follows recommendations made this month in a report from the Task Force on Social Activities and Community Standards for Students.

The president's announcement comes shortly after the end of filings in two campus publications last month. Among the other documents, the archives contained a 117-page "Phi Psi Historical Archive", which included jokes about rape, racist tropes and rough descriptions of hazing among the pages of the minutes of fraternity meetings and lists. treasure hunt.

A reference to Delta Upsilon's "rape granaries" and "rape tunnel" was also included. The fraternity denied the existence of these things and termed these terms a "humourous humorous attempt on the part of a member of another Greek organization of Swarthmore".

"I recognize that the recent events and conversations on campus have deeply affected many members of our community, especially survivors of sexual assault," said the president on Friday. "Although the report does not specifically address Title IX policies and practices, the task force worked closely with the Title IX office, Public Safety and the Dean's Office, recognizing that a policy strong and clear about sexual misconduct was essential for a safe and healthy campus life. "

Chapters of the fraternity announced their closure

Delta Upsilon did not have a lease during this school year. And a lease termination contract between the College and the Phi Psi Alumni Association put an end to this month's "last contract of this type," Smith said.

Kappa Sorority Alpha Theta could continue with current members until the spring semester of 2022, but could no longer recruit or initiate new members, Smith said.

Delta Upsilon and Phi Psi Fraternity announced the closure of Facebook last month, condemning the documents.

The voluntary dissolution of the two fraternities reflects a "broader shift in the needs and desires of students," Smith said in his statement Friday.

"I recognize that serious cracks persist in our community and I am sorry that the period has been so difficult," she said. "As we move forward casually, I call each one of us to consider how we respond to the aspiration to inclusivity.We must try to do it together without abandoning each other and without giving up our community.Use the art of deep listening.Do not accept the division. "