For Immediate Release:
Friday, April 7, 2023
Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida and his allies proposed House Bill 999, Postsecondary Education Institutions. The legislation would ban organizations and programs that promote diversity in colleges and universities in the state of Florida. This will have a significant and adverse impact on support services and access for non-white students, faculty, staff, and organizations on college campuses.
The language of this proposal will have direct effects on Lambda Theta Alpha as well as Black and other Multicultural related organizations, including the National Pan-Hellenic Council, commonly referred to as the Divine 9. The consequences of this proposed bill will affect not only those within the state of Florida but across our nation, with other states creating similar legislation, such as Texas’ House Bill 1006 which suggests prohibiting diversity, equity, and inclusion offices or units in higher education. Actions that have taken place with the Florida House and Senate have deeply impacted Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities with desired erasure of history, achievements, struggles, and, ultimately, the existence of our communities.
Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated stands against the actions and proposals of Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida that support the elimination of diversity in all forms. We unequivocally condemn attempts to eliminate diversity, in all its forms, from colleges and universities across the United States and beyond. Current legislative efforts championed by Governor DeSantis targeting diversity will have a detrimental impact on the quality of education and degree completion outcomes for millions of students, particularly those of historically underserved backgrounds. The state of Florida is home to undergraduate and graduate members of Lambda Theta Alpha, and we stand behind each and every member of our sisterhood in the face of what amounts to a virulent surge in fascism in one of the most diverse states in the union.
Members are encouraged to contact their representatives to raise awareness of how strongly their constituents feel about this issue. The LTA National Political Education Initiative Committee and Cultural Competency Task Force have compiled resources to support these efforts.
As members organize and work with others in their communities to stand against these hateful bills, it is imperative to know your rights. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) provides a comprehensive guide for protestors here.
Finally, members of Lambda Theta Alpha are invited to a Power Hour: Collective Advocacy event where the National Political Education Initiative Committee and the Cultural Competency Task Force will provide a space for members to meet and collaborate in preparing communications for their representatives.
Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated stands in solidarity with ALL Black, Latin, Asian, and other Multicultural sororities, fraternities, and diversity-focused organizations impacted by this legislation.
Contact:
Myrna Ruiz, Vice President of External Affairs
Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc.
externalaffairs@lambdalady.org
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About Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc.
Lambda Theta Alpha was founded at Kean University in 1975 as the first Latina sorority in the nation. Lambda Theta Alpha strives to develop strong leaders that produce and engage in political, social, and cultural activities. Based on the principles of Unity, Love and Respect, the Sorority was established for the unification of women through charitable and educational programs. Although Lambda Theta Alpha is Latin by tradition, the Sorority is inclusive to all women regardless of race, color, creed, sexual identity, gender expression, or religious beliefs.