Gamma Rho Lambda is now the first primarily gay sorority to be recognized by ASU.
The women of the newly formed group say that it's not just about being the first gay sorority at the University; it's also about breaking through stereotypes and paving the way for change.
"A lot of these girls have never been in a queer group where they can have support," said Janette Elias, vice president of the sorority and a political science junior. "Some of them have been disowned by their families, and so it's like a surrogate family.
"I see it as a means of creating change on campus ... bringing queer issues to the forefront and making our presence known," she added.
The sorority formed last semester and was officially recognized earlier this month by ASU. Its niche: a women-only social group for bisexual, transgendered and lesbian individuals. However, the group also accepts straight members.
"[Being affiliated] with Panhellenic is definitely a reflection of how things work in society, so hopefully this will lead to more change," said sorority president and founder Joanne Martens, a music theater performance senior.
Gamma Rho Lambda secretary Ashley Lanoue, a clinical laboratory science junior, said she never thought she fit the sorority girl stereotype, but as a sister she hopes to challenge Greek life stigmas
"It's kind of clich, but it's really about sisterhood," she said.
"I didn't know these girls at all in the beginning of last semester, and now I trust them completely, and I can call them in the middle of the night and they'd be there for me," Lanoue added.
The Panhellenic Council is one of three governing councils that female groups can join at ASU in order to be officially recognized, said Lara Klinkner, the council adviser.
"We are very excited about it, and we are very excited that groups are looking to Panhellenic for involvement," she added.
Klinkner also said that though this is the first gay sorority in Panhellenic, the council does not discriminate against the sexual orientation of sororities.
The sorority will rush until Feb. 20.
Reach the reporter at jacqueline.shoyeb@asu.edu.
