Panhellenic Council sends email about rape culture to sorority members

Less than an hour after Richmond's Interfraternity Council (IFC) canceled all lodge activities scheduled for this weekend, The University of Richmond's Panhellenic Council and its chapter presidents reaffirmed the Greek community's stance against the perpetuation of 'rape culture,' in an email sent to sorority members on Tuesday.

"The Panhellenic Community strives to prevent any continuation of ‘rape culture’ and to foster a supportive network for any victim of sexual assault and/or relationship violence," the email read.

The email, which was first sent to chapter presidents and later disseminated to sorority members, responded to the canceled lodge activities and discussed the widespread issue of sexual misconduct on the university's campus.

"Greek leadership has deemed it necessary to take this time to reflect on the recent campus climate, and thus no lodges or off-campus parties will be held this coming weekend," the email read. "Sexual misconduct is, unfortunately, a prevalent issue on our campus, and it is time that we come together and foster positive change."

The council claimed responsibility for cultivating a safe and positive environment for all students, specifically noting its duty for the Class of 2020 in particular.

The email was sent a day after University of Richmond's chapter of Kappa Alpha Order was suspended by the university and its national headquarters after one of its members sent a sexist email more than 95 students on Friday.

Discussions about rape culture have been prominent after two Westhampton students reported the administration's mishandling of their Title IX cases on the Huffington Post contributor network. Students have called for change in forums and held discussions with administrators and student groups since last Thursday.  

Contact news writer Ashlee Korlach at ashlee.korlach@richmond.edu

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