Dear Sisters,

To be womanly always, to be discouraged never.  In one word – womanly - Ethel Switzer Howard of Xi Chapter captured all of the qualities we hope to possess:  grace, virtue, maturity, femininity, confidence, dignity, compassion and poise.  I am proud that our Chi Omega sisters are constantly striving to live up to these ideals. As Chi Omegas, we seek to preserve human dignity and promote self-respect of each individual.

Our Chi Omega Policy on Human Dignity sets forth our convictions:

• That Chi Omega will not tolerate any activity that is destructive, demeaning or abusive to anyone or any group, nor tolerate sexual harassment or personal degradation.
• That each member and new member, therefore, is charged with the responsibility of treating all individuals and groups with dignity and respect.

In his book, Eight Habits of the Heart, Clifton Taulbert outlines timeless values that build strong communities.  These habits include nurturing attitude, dependability, responsibility, friendship, brotherhood, high expectations, courage, and hope.  Of the eight habits of the heart, the one habit that Mr. Taulbert cites as critical to a good community is brotherhood:

      "Brotherhood is the habit that reaches beyond comfortable relationships 
        to extend a welcome to those who may be different from yourself."

Chi Omega’s traditions and ritual embody these habits and practices.  As a unified sisterhood, Chi Omega encourages self-fulfillment and encourages our women to promote the true worth and ability of all women in every setting.

In this educational module, we will focus on the importance of human dignity.  This topic is intended to coincide with National Hazing Prevention Week during the last week of September. We will address how inappropriate behaviors and traditions can destroy, not augment, one’s self esteem.  Hazing has no place in Chi Omega, nor any other fraternal organization, as everything that is associated with hazing is antithetical to our highest teachings found in our ritual.  There is honor, trust, and respect for those who demonstrate the highest regard for preserving human dignity in all situations.

We are the benefactors of Chi Omega’s concurrence of timeless values and high standards, bestowed in love and trust by those who have gone before us.  Sisters, it is our responsibility to pass our legacy to generations to come.

Loyally, 
Letitia Fulkerson, National President