Is Sigma Delta Tau a Jewish Sorority?
Sigma Delta Tau, a sorority founded in 1926 at Temple University in Philadelphia, has long been a subject of curiosity and debate among students and alumni. One of the most frequently asked questions is whether Sigma Delta Tau is a Jewish sorority. This article aims to explore this question and provide a comprehensive understanding of the sorority’s origins, values, and membership criteria.
Sigma Delta Tau was established with the intention of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for women of diverse backgrounds. The sorority’s founders, all Jewish women, sought to provide a space where they could connect with one another and participate in extracurricular activities. However, the sorority does not exclusively cater to Jewish members, as it welcomes women of all faiths and ethnicities.
The sorority’s name, Sigma Delta Tau, is derived from the Greek letters that represent the values it stands for: sisterhood, leadership, and service. These values are at the core of Sigma Delta Tau’s mission and are reflected in its membership requirements and activities. While the sorority was founded by Jewish women, it has always emphasized inclusivity and the importance of embracing diverse perspectives.
Membership in Sigma Delta Tau is open to women who share the sorority’s values and are committed to its mission. While the founders were Jewish, the sorority does not require its members to be Jewish. Instead, it focuses on the individual’s commitment to the sorority’s core values and their ability to contribute positively to the organization.
Throughout its history, Sigma Delta Tau has been actively involved in various community service projects and has made significant contributions to the well-being of its members and the broader community. The sorority has sponsored events, supported charitable organizations, and provided scholarships to its members, demonstrating its dedication to service and leadership.
In conclusion, while Sigma Delta Tau was founded by Jewish women and has a strong Jewish heritage, it is not exclusively a Jewish sorority. The sorority’s focus on inclusivity, sisterhood, leadership, and service makes it a welcoming organization for women of all backgrounds. The question of whether Sigma Delta Tau is a Jewish sorority can be answered with a resounding “not exclusively,” as the sorority values diversity and aims to provide a supportive environment for all its members.
