The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

Pledging

Pledging is a period of activity in which the candidates for
admission to a sorority (fraternity) become acquainted with their
fellow pledges as well as the active members of the chapter, and
begin to develop those lasting friendships for which the sorority
was organized. During this period the pledges learn the moral,
social, and intellectual objectives of the sorority, and begin
working toward these goals. They come to know the history,
structure and regulations of the organization, and their duties and
responsibilities within it. They are tested in and taught to
develop the virtues of interest in the activities and welfare of
the sorority; of fidelity to the purposes and rules; of loyalty to
one another; of charity and friendship involving self-sacrifice and
the willingness to help one another in all ways necessary and
possible; of cooperation with the officers and members in the
work, activities, duties, and responsibilities necessary to
successfully fulfill the objectives of the sorority. Pledging is
a period of constructive activity intended to unite the members in
a bond of sisterly relationship.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Date learned: 00-00-1990