Hispanic vs Latinx
The terms were adopted in the United States in an attempt to loosely group immigrants and their descendants that arrived in the US from Latin America. The terms were and sometimes still are used interchangeably. The categories only refer to a person’s origin and ancestral background. The terms have since evolved. In an overly simplistic way, the term Hispanic refers more to language while Latinx refers more to culture.
Latino is from the Spanish (or Portuguese) latino americano and refers to those from Latin American countries who speak romance languages like Spanish, Portuguese, or French. Hispanic is generally accepted as a narrower term that refers to people who descend from Spanish speaking countries.
As with any personal identifying factor the individual can choose to identify as both, either, or none even if they meet the “textbook definition” of either term.
National Hispanic Heritage Month / Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana
Celebrated in the United States from September 15 to October 15
Celebrado en los Estados Unidos el 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre
“National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans ...” (www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov)
El Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana celebra las contribuciones de los hispanos y latino americanos.
Hispanic heritage month had its origin in 1968 when Congress passed Public Law 90-498 designating a Hispanic Heritage Week. The week was then extended to a month in 1988 by a superseding law.
El mes de la herencia hispana comenzó como la semana de la herencia hispana en 1968 cuando el congreso pasó la ley pública 90-498. La semana fue extendida a un mes en 1988 por un ley que reemplazó la ley anterior.
September 15 was picked because it was the independence day for a large number of Hispanic countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico’s Independence on September 16. Today the list includes the independence days of Brazil and Chile celebrated on September 7 and September 18 respectively.
Inicialmente la fecha del 15 de septiembre fue escogida por la independencia de Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras y Nicaragua en esa fecha y la independencia de México el 16 de septiembre. Hoy incluimos la celebración de la independencia de Brasil celebrado el 7 de septiembre y de Chile celebrado el 18 de septiembre.
Canada celebrates Latin American Heritage Month in the month of October.
Canadá celebra el Mes de la Herencia Latino Americana en el mes de Octubre.
Sources/ Fuentes de información:
https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/
https://www.loc.gov/law/help/commemorative-observations/hispanic-heritage.php
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/L-6.4/page-1.html
International PEARL Program
This academic year will certainly be different. That does not mean we cannot still come together to learn and grow as sisters united by the tenants of justice, sisterhood and love. As an international headquarters is our job to support the membership with programs and tools they need to fulfill the expectations of membership. This Fall, we are introducing the opportunity to engage in a virtual community together through an International PEARL Program. Each member (undergraduate and alumnae) are encouraged to complete 21 activities in the 5 areas of development that are the bedrock of Delta Phi Epsilon’s personal growth programming. Commonly known as the 5 S’s, the different areas are explained below. IHQ will be launching activities for sisters to earn their “PEARLS” together and fulfill the expectation of membership. Pick and choose what activities speak to you.
Upcoming events and registration information:
Be-Well After all of the virtual meetings and classes and stress of everyday life, why not give yourself a break and focus on you? Each month will feature a program that will provide guidance on how to take care of yourself, both inside and out. We will rotate between fitness, healthy habits, and mental health, so there will always be something new to look forward to! This will be led by a DPhiE alumna or active sister.
For September, we’ll be focusing on both our body and soul. Join us for yoga with Laura Derrico where she’ll take you through body and breathing techniques that you can use to help manage your daily stress.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 16th from 1-1:45 PM EST
Sign-up here! If you sign-up, please do plan on attending the session.
Book Club: Do you love reading? Are you never sure what your next book should be? Let us help you! The selected books will be released along with the rest of the programming series for the month and a discussion will be held during the last week of the month.
For September, we at IHQ are reading Dare to Speak: Defending Free Speech for All by Suzanne Nossel. The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee will be hosting the author in a private session for sisters of DPhiE ONLY about her book where she will discuss free speech on college campuses and the harm of “cancel culture.” We hope you’ll join us!
*The International President and International Executive Director are requiring that one member attend from each chapter to be the representative of the chapter on future discussions and education on this important topic that directly affects the undergraduate experience. Your representative will need to have your Vice President of Operations purchase Suzanne’s book with chapter funds, which will then be reimbursed by the Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation. The link to purchase the book is here.
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 29th at 7:30 PM EST
Sign-up here for the Nossel’s talk! If you sign-up, please do plan on attending the discussion.
On deck for October: Dr. Beverly Tatum’s book, Why Do All The Black Kids Sit Together In The Cafeteria?
Date & Time: October 29th at 7:30 PM EST
Senior Series: Emily Meister will discuss resume writing, interview skills, such as navigating phone/virtual/in-person interviews, as well as building your self-confidence and how handle rejection when searching for that perfect position.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 23rd at 7:30 PM EST
Sign-up here! If you sign-up, please do plan on attending the session.
Keep checking your monthly newsletters for more!
Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority Philosophy on Health & Wellness
In October of 2019, the International Governing Board accepted the following philosophy on health and wellness.
Delta Phi Epsilon strives to create a sense of belonging for all members.
Belonging is a human need, just like food, water, and safety. Delta Phi Epsilon recognizes true belonging can only occur if one's basic needs-primarily one's health and safety-are met.
Delta Phi Epsilon centers its membership experience on cultivating an environment where collegiate and alumnae members thrive physically,
mentally, emotionally, academically, spiritually, and authentically.
The collegiate experience calls for understanding and commitment to healthy decision making, peer accountability, and operating within the policies, procedures, and laws Delta Phi Epsilon chapters exist within. It re9uires individual members to challenge the status quo and uphold the founding principles of Justice, Sisterhood, and Love the organization is built upon.
The alumnae volunteer experience calls for positive role modeling, ongoing training and development, and informed commitment to challenging the
process.
The International Governing Board and Headquarters staff must cultivate effective partnerships with host institutions and peer organizations, root the undergraduate membership experience in co-curricular context with an emphasis on student learning, and commit to ongoing development of
preventative policies, procedures, programs, and resources that facilitate safe and respectful environments for all members.
We know college environments can pose challenge to healthy decision-making. We also believe in honest reflection when mistakes occur and lifelong learning. Delta Phi Epsilon believes in empowering members to take ownership for their actions-positive and negative-and aims to instill a culture of responsibility through standardized accountability processes at the undergraduate, alumnae, and international levels.
Holistic health, wellness, and safety are critical for establishing belonging. Delta Phi Epsilon is committed to the ongoing education, enforcement, and
evolution of data-driven risk prevention and harm reduction practices to ensure all members can thrive.
Delta Phi Epsilon Health & Wellness COVID-19 Commitments
From the Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority Philosophy on Health & Wellness:
“Delta Phi Epsilon strives to create a sense of belonging for all members.
Belonging is a human need, just like food, water, and safety. Delta Phi Epsilon recognizes true belonging can only occur if one’s basic needs – primarily one’s health and safety – are met.
Delta Phi Epsilon centers its membership experience on cultivating an environment where collegiate and alumnae members thrive physically, mentally, emotionally, academically, spiritually, and authentically.
The collegiate experience calls for understanding and commitment to healthy decision making, peer accountability, and operating within the policies, procedures, and laws Delta Phi Epsilon chapters exist within. It requires individual members to challenge the status quo and uphold the founding principles of Justice, Sisterhood, and Love the organization is built upon.”
Membership Commitments in the Context of COVID-19:
To align with Delta Phi Epsilon’s Collegiate Expectations of Membership and Philosophy on Health & Wellness, and to ensure health and safety is a top priority in creating a true sense of belonging for all, collegiate members are asked to commit to the following during the 2020 – 2021 academic year:
1. I will adhere to guidelines provided by the CDC, state and local health departments, college/university officials, and Delta Phi Epsilon international and local leadership regarding attendance at events and/or participation in activities that are not required by my academic coursework.
2. If requested, and if required by my college/university, I will wear a mask any time I am not able to maintain social distancing; including during any in-person Delta Phi Epsilon events or activities and at all times when I am in common or communal Delta Phi Epsilon-associated living spaces with fellow members or nonmembers.
3. If my chapter has a facility, suite, or lodge, I will adhere to new rules and procedures regarding food service, sleeping quarters, hosting of guests (including non-resident members), scheduling of study spaces, and other changes as required and/or listed in the Delta Phi Epsilon COVID-19 Facility Operations and Guidelines to help keep myself and my sisters safe.
4. I will strive to embody Delta Phi Epsilon’s Collegiate Expectations of Membership and separate Human Dignity Policy, and as part of that, respect the health and safety concerns of all individuals associated with Delta Phi Epsilon including fellow members, chapter advisors, college/university staff, international leadership and headquarters staff, and non-members that come into contact with the chapter.
5. I understand that while Delta Phi Epsilon International Sorority and my host college/university will take precautions to provide health and safety guidelines and procedures to assist with social distancing, it will be up to me and my chapter sisters to follow these guidelines to protect against the spread of COVID-19.
6. As a collegiate member of Delta Phi Epsilon, I commit to sharing this responsibility of sisterhood to create a healthy and safe chapter experience where all members can find belonging and thrive.
Delta Phi Epsilon Trans Woman and Non-Binary Gender Policy
Consistent with our Founder's courageous vision, Delta Phi Epsilon International Sorority’s Policy on trans women and gender non-binary individuals supports the sorority’s three core pillars of justice, sisterhood, and love, and reflects our commitment to anti-discrimination practices.
Gender and sex-based equity are, and have always been, a fundamental element of justice. Our motto states “to be, rather than to seem to be.” We cannot profess to be inclusive, and yet exclude or render silent our trans and/or non-binary members. As the public understanding and definition of gender identity and expression evolves, so must our understanding and definition of what makes a person eligible for inclusion in sisterhood. We believe this policy continues our long legacy of leadership relating to our commitment to sisterhood itself.
The purpose of this policy is to establish an environment that is safe, free from stigma and discrimination, and welcoming for all potential new members, sisters, volunteers and staff, regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression.
Delta Phi Epsilon welcomes members who identify as women, including transgender women, and gender non-binary individuals, regardless of their sex assigned at birth. All members must uphold and represent Delta Phi Epsilon’s values and philosophies.
Trans women and non-binary individuals, therefore, may be included as members in all areas of the organization, provided that they accept and share in the collective values and experiences of the sisterhood. Under the auspices of self-governing chapters and alumnae associations, the ultimate decision to extend a bid for membership is solely that of the chapter or association members.
Notwithstanding that this is Delta Phi Epsilon’s Policy on trans women, and gender non-binary individuals, we trust and empower each one of our Chapters to make decisions that are the best for their Chapters and the Sorority in their recruitment activities. Members must not obstruct recruitment, create hostile environments for transgender and/or non-binary members, or inhibit leadership or scholarship opportunities for those members.
Names and Pronouns
Supporting this policy, Delta Phi Epsilon believes that every individual has the right to be addressed by a name and pronouns that correspond to the individual’s gender identity. Whether or not a transgender or gender nonconforming individual has legally changed their name or gender, Delta Phi Epsilon will allow individuals to use a name and gender pronouns that reflect their identity. It is recommended that all members be asked how they want to be addressed.
Recruitment
We welcome all women as they self-identify, regardless of gender expression. This includes cisgender women and transgender women. Those individuals who identify as gender non-binary may be considered for membership, provided they are committed to the advancement of womanhood.
Individuals who identify as male are not eligible for membership regardless of their commitment to the advancement of womanhood and/or identification with women’s issues and concerns.
No member is required to provide documentation regarding their gender.
Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation Announces New Annual Scholarship - Madeleine Claire McNulty (MCM) Scholarship
A new annual grant that supports a sister of Delta Phi Epsilon (DPhiE) sorority pursuing an undergraduate, graduate or professional degree, who has overcome a significant medical, personal or family difficulty. Gina Curtis, Epsilon Upsilon Chapter at Humboldt State University and President of the Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation made the announcement.
This scholarship, endowed by family and friends of the McNulty family, honors the memory of its namesake, Madeleine Claire McNulty daughter of past International President Dawn Barta McNulty, Phi Sigma Chapter at Northern Illinois University; niece of Sara Barta Tvrdik; granddaughter of Shirley Barta and goddaughter of Jo Ellen Pisone Gregie, all of whom are sisters from Phi Sigma Chapter.
Born March 28, 2000, Madeleine was quick to laughter and always ready with a compliment or kind word to make someone’s day. A diligent student, passionate dancer and Special Olympics gold medalist Madeleine embodied our founding values of Justice, Sisterhood, and Love. Battling a lifelong seizure disorder, enduring countless medical interventions including a complicated two-part brain surgery in 2010, and working tirelessly to develop academic, social, and life skills Madeleine was the epitome of embracing all of life’s moments. She inspired family, friends and classmates to “live like Madeleine.” Sadly, Madeleine passed away at the age of 16 due to an epileptic seizure.
Madeleine’s mother, Dawn, was initiated in 1988. She traveled as an International Leadership Consultant and then continued as an international alumna volunteer. Madeleine was born during Dawn’s tenure as International President (1999 – 2004) and attended her first International Leadership Forum (formerly known as International Convention) as an infant. Dawn currently serves as a Director on Educational Foundation and Chair of the Scholarship Program.
Dawn, her husband Tom, and Madeleine’s siblings Devin and Caitlin chose Delta Phi Epsilon as the beneficiary of a scholarship endowment among the many worthy causes that impacted Madeleine’s life for one simple reason: sisterhood. From the moment past Foundation president, Donna Von Bruening asked the delicate question, “Where would you like charitable contributions sent?” The response the family offered was, “the Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation.”
“From the moment Madeleine had her first seizure to the moment we lost her – for almost 17 years – sisterhood supported me. I do not mean sisterhood only in the sense of a shoulder to lean on, I mean sisterhood in the sense that my membership provided leadership and life skills that made me an educated, empowered, resourceful tireless advocate for my daughter and my family. It contributed to my ability to create a fulfilling life for a special needs child, for a family living with special needs, in 3 different countries over the span of two decades and to, eventually, reenter my professional field following her loss. Sisterhood IS for a lifetime…and beyond,” said Past International President Dawn Barta McNulty.
The Educational Foundation provides academic scholarships as well as grants for leadership and personal development for the DPhiE sisterhood, both active members and alumnae. The Foundation was founded in 1966, at the golden anniversary of DPhiE.
For more information about the Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation or to apply for a scholarship please visit www.dphie.org/scholarships.
Arleen Kruger Honick Scholarship – Honoring the depths of sisterhood.
Arleen Kruger Honick, Psi Chapter at the University of Georgia is one of our sisterhood’s most prolific leaders, volunteers and supporters. Adding to her years of dedication to Delta Phi Epsilon, Arleen’s commitment has reached even greater heights recently with the Arleen Kruger Honick Scholarship named in her honor. This scholarship, which began last year honors Arleen for her dedication to DPhiE through volunteering and serving as past international president.
The journey to having a scholarship in her name started with the blossoming relationship she felt for our sisterhood while in school. Had it not been for the sorority, Arleen said she would have considered even withdrawing from school. But DPhiE provided a sense of belonging with sisters who would help her flourish.
Arleen reciprocated with that love by becoming a leader within her chapter and as an advisor when she graduated. Her devotion took her to the highest rank of service to the sisterhood when she joined our Executive Council, now known as the International Governing Board (IGB) as the vice president of rush and pledge programs. She subsequently served as president.
Arleen continues to serve the sisterhood as a member of the IGB and always has a kind word and helpful advice for all who need it.
Recipients of the Arleen Kruger Honick Scholarship must be undergraduate members of the Psi Chapter at the University of Georgia, Honick’s home chapter.
For more information on how you can apply for this scholarship visit www.dphie.org/scholarships.
Dr. Toby Tamarkin Scholarship Named After One of the Hardest Working Women We Know.
Dr. Toby Tamarkin of the Sigma Chapter at The Ohio State University worked her way through college. Her focused dedication to her education while having to work a job is a testament to her fortitude. Her drive created a successful 33-year career as a teacher, professor and administrator, touching the lives of hundreds of students. She also was a leader in language education at the local, state, regional and national level.
The Educational Foundation’s scholarship in her honor celebrates her industrious spirit.
“If there is a sister who has lived out the DPhiE value to “be” something rather than just do something, Toby Tamarkin is that sister,” said International Executive Director Nicole DeFeo, Phi Tau Chapter at Rutgers University Camden.
First granted in 2017, the Dr. Toby Tamarkin Scholarship is awarded to the recipient who demonstrates this drive.
Applicants must be studying for a career in education and, like Toby, must have a job to help them attain their goal. Graduate students who apply should be involved in at least one organization in their educational field.
The scholarship is endowed by the Tamarkin family in partnership with the Foundation, which provides academic scholarships as well as personal development workshops for the DPhiE sisterhood, both active members and alumnae.
“From my experience visiting sisters, chapters and alumnae, we have many women who embody Toby’s work ethic,” Nicole said.
Toby has served many roles in her life including scholar, educator, leader, wife, mother, gardener, friend, boxing judge and tireless champion and role model for women.
Joining DPhiE in 1955 at Ohio State University, Toby earned her graduate and doctoral degrees in a double major of Spanish language and Literature with advanced teaching methodologies. Before retirement, Toby served as Academic Vice President at Holyoke Community College in Massachusetts.
A resident of Florida, she has the unusual distinction of being one of that state’s few women professional boxing judges. She is an active member of our Educational Foundation’s Scholarship Committee.
“To have a scholarship that celebrates the kind of commitment to education as Toby has is a heartfelt honor to bestow,” Nicole said.
If you are like or know someone who is like Toby and would like to apply for this scholarship, please visit www.dphie.org/scholarships to learn more and apply.
The Madeleine Claire McNulty Scholarship - Honoring the life of a young champion.
The Madeleine Claire McNulty Scholarship, named in commemoration of the daughter of Past International President Dawn Barta McNulty, Phi Sigma Chapter at Northern Illinois University was created to support a sorority member who has overcome a medical, personal or family difficulty.
Madeleine was a diligent student, passionate dancer and Special Olympics gold medalist. She embodied our founding values of Justice, Sisterhood, and Love.
Having battled a lifelong seizure disorder, Madeleine lost her battle with epilepsy early last year. The McNulty family had designated the Educational Foundation to receive donations in memory of their beloved daughter and has since endowed this scholarship.
Scheduled to be awarded for the first time in 2019, The Madeleine Claire McNulty Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a collegiate member from the pool of applicants being reviewed for scholarship at this time.
For more information about the Delta Phi Epsilon Educational Foundation or to apply for a scholarship please visit www.dphiefoundation.org.