A Greek organization called Omicron Psi is causing a heated debate in the Black Greek Lettered Organization community—one black college graduate pointed out “the women have appropriated many aspects” of the style and behavior of “Divine 9” member Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., according to a post on Rolling Out.
Political Scientist, and also a graduate of Morehouse College, Maurice “Mo” Barnes writes, “The women step like Ques, dress like Ques and even exhibit the same behavior that one would see from the men of Omega Psi Phi. But these are not all college students in the organization; the majority of them are adult women who wear male clothing and openly identify as lesbian.”
According to Barnes, the problem is Omicron Psi Omega, founded in 2000, is basically stealing “the traditions” of a proud black fraternity but the women still can (and should) join together for a common bond. He writes, “The message to some is a confusing one of gender identity and the theft of the traditions of a predominately Black male organization that was founded in 1911 on the campus of Howard University. The fact that this group of Black lesbians wants to organize and have a fellowship among themselves is not an issue.”
He continued, “At issue is the message that they are putting forward visually. They are emulating a proud group of Black men and Black male bonding and sexual identity. This includes hyper sexualized behavior of the steps of the men of Omega Psi Phi and presenting a look of being “hard.” The women of Omicron Psi Omega grab their crotches, stick out their tongues and shout about being lesbian.” (Click here to read his full statement.)
In a lengthy response, a Facebook user said, “There’s no use in debating this dead conversation about copying, infringement, etc. because there is absolutely nothing the exact same about my organization, as any other D9.”
The Facebook account added, “Name, colors, symbols, shield, call, community service initiatives, and all other “characteristics” considered.”
“And speaking from the perspective of anyone who’s ever went grocery shopping, similar doesn’t equate to “same.” That also doesn’t mean we’re volunteering to be the “generic” alternative,” the Facebook account said.
Check out the entire post below.
