SECRET SISTERS - Edited by Shane L. Windmeyer & Pamela W. Freeman
(Alyson)
reviewed by Nicole Blizzard
Most of the positive stories are from writers who attended college in the 1990's, after most attitudes in colleges across the country loosened up a bit and being gay was not quite the stigma that it had been for many of us. It seems that college students like to think of themselves as open-minded. Often though, it seems that many people tend to get more conservative as they grow older.
Scattered throughout the collection are stories by women for whom being in a sorority was not a pleasant experience. They encountered homophobia and condemnation by their sisters and, although some individual chapters in colleges may be open-minded, not all are. By and large, the Greek System tends to foster relationships between men and women. There is no national policy within the system specifying non-discrimination against lesbian or bisexual women. Many gay and lesbian individuals and groups oppose the Greek Systems. There have been many stories in the media recently of binge drinking, hazing, and sexual molestations. Some colleges have actually chosen to disallow sororities and fraternities on their campuses. Many of these groups do need to answer for the things that they have done, however, if the stories in this collection are any indication, then maybe there is hope for the future. Sometimes, one person can make a difference. Maybe with enough people, we can make a bigger difference. It's worth a try you know.
I would recommend this book to any lesbian or bisexual woman who is in college and struggling with their sexuality, especially if they are in a sorority. I would also recommend that this book should be in campus libraries across the country. Sometimes, knowing that you are not alone is all you need to find your own courage.
Secret Sisters: Stories Of Being Lesbian And Bisexual In A College Sorority is published by Alyson books. It is available in many bookstores and through on-line retailers. However, whenever possible, buy it from a GLBT bookstore. They need your support.
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