July 12th 2024.
At the ongoing Constitutional Convention in Chicago, the members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated are currently in the midst of a heated debate over a proposed bylaw amendment. This amendment has the potential to exclude transgender individuals from joining the historic African American Brotherhood. The decision will be finalized by the end of the convention on July 14th, and it has sparked a significant divide within the fraternity.
According to GLAAD, the proposed amendment would restrict membership to those who are "naturally born male" and consistently identify as such. This has caused a rift between the more traditional national leadership and the younger, more progressive general body and chapter leadership of the fraternity. Deandre Miles-Hercules, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha who identifies as "gender creative" and uses they/them pronouns, strongly opposes the amendment, calling it "reactionary" and "unbecoming" of an organization that claims to champion human rights. They argue that banning transgender individuals goes against the values of the fraternity, which proudly counts Thurgood Marshall and Martin Luther King Jr. among its members.
The Constitutional Convention, described by General President Willis L. Lonzer III as a chance to be a part of history, has brought together delegates from over 700 chapters worldwide to discuss and debate proposed amendments. In a letter to the membership, Lonzer acknowledged the changing cultural landscape and the need for the fraternity to adapt. He wrote, "while the character and values of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. are as steadfast as the Great Sphinx of Giza, society's are not."
The convention, which began on July 10th, has already addressed important business matters, such as the presentation of a proposed strategic plan. However, the consideration of the bylaw amendment has overshadowed these discussions. Many members, including those from the GBTQ+ community, feel betrayed by the potential exclusion of transgender individuals. Lennex Cowan, who helped organize a letter to Alpha leadership in March expressing concerns about the amendment, expressed disappointment that it is still being considered despite previous assurances that it would be withdrawn. This issue not only affects transgender members but also highlights broader issues of inclusivity within Alpha Phi Alpha. The fraternity has come under scrutiny for not officially recognizing Pride month and failing to show support for GBTQ+ members.
As the fraternity grapples with these issues, it faces a crucial moment that could define its future with the GBTQ+ community, college campuses, and current members. The decision made at the Constitutional Convention will not only impact the fraternity but also send a message about its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
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