Activism

Delta Sigma Theta Expels 5 Members Who Participated In VH1’s “Sorority Sisters”

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., has expelled five of its members who participated in VH1’s controversial “Sorority Sisters” show.

According to the organization’s website, Priyanka Banks, Lydia Mitchell, Metoya Monroe, Adrene Ashford, and Shanna McCormick were expelled on January 13, 2015.

But what does being expelled actually mean for these women? According to the Delta website, and expulsion is defined as follows:

“Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.’s Marks are the exclusive property of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. The right to wear, use, or display any items or merchandise with any Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Marks (“paraphernalia”) is granted to those in good standing only.

Therefore, all individuals listed in this section must refrain from wearing any paraphernalia or using any merchandise that includes references to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., its symbols or logos. Wearing or using Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. paraphernalia is knowingly engaging in fraudulent misrepresentation and impersonation, i.e., conveying that you are a member of the organization.

Furthermore, attending “Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Only” activities or otherwise engaging in any conduct or activities that indicate membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is prohibited. Should any individual fail to abide by the aforementioned guidelines and/or fraudulently misrepresent her status as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., you will be subject to legal action taken against her by the organization.”

This is not the first move by an NPHC sorority to discipline its members. Earlier this month Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., put two of its members who were involved in the show on suspension until 2017.

This particular move by Delta Sigma Theta to expel these three members happens to have happened on January 13, the Delta’s Founders’ Day and the same day that news broke that VH1 had decided to dump the show by abruptly airing the remaining shows all on one day (1/18/15).