Why are there Two Organizations: Labels and Stereotypes

*Like everything interpretations of anything varies depending on the person. So hopefully this explanation will help skew views towards what Omicron Women and Iota Gentlewomen are truly about.

There has been concern about why are there two organizations. Furthermore, why is there an emphasis on being a femme or a stud. To address these concerns the Herstory has to be reviewed first. In sum, the four founders, the Sapphires, began the organization because there was a need to unite Lesbians, especially those of color, and give them a safe haven where they could be apart of a true sisterhood. It was later realized that there were absolutely no organizations that catered to Stud/Butch/Dom women. Therefore, the two organizations each renamed and restructured themselves with two women who CONSIDERED themselves feminine or dominant.

To begin everything is dependant on how each woman views herself. Once a woman realizes that she is only attracted to other women and a genuine lover of women its usually then, but not in all cases, that she looks at herself and sees what traits and characteristics she has and where she fits in the labels game. But then there are also those women who go through the same process of finally realizing that they are lesbian but throughout their lives they dress “boyish” or “femmy” and later on are labels actually applied to them. Whether or not women want to have labels imposed on them, Gay Society has these labels and everyone fits somewhere. The two most common are “Femme” and “Stud.” Stereotypically, Femmes wear the skirts, makeup, and the three-inch heels while the Studs, also stereotypically, rock the Timbs, wife beaters, and dress like “Boys.”

Stereotypes DO NOT in anyway govern how Omicron Epsilon Pi and Iota Lambda Pi look at themselves. These are only labels that make some women comfortable identifying themselves with. We also realize that there are many types of women. It must be said that it does not matter what you look like, what you wear, or even how you get down in the bedroom. These are not factors that Omicron Epsilon Pi or Iota Lambda Pi use to invite women into the sisterhood. The two organizations above all are more concerned about the QUALITY of each woman that is interested. For example, in Omicron Epsilon Pi there are women who some call STEMME but who are clearly extremely feminine by nature. Yes they have been known to put on a fit showing all the curves that they have and get their hair and nails done like clock work every two weeks BUT will throw on some Timbs and sweats and call it a day. Does this make these women any less feminine? On the other side in Iota Lambda Pi there are women who some call “Studs in skirts” but who are clearly extremely dominant by nature, and again they dress “Boyish” and rock the latest fits and Jordan’s, but don’t get it twisted when they walk in a room wearing a business suit and some Nine West shoes. Again the question is asked, does this make them any less dominant? These examples show the versatility of what Omicron women and Iota Gentlewomen encompass. In addition, for the women that say they “Stand on the Middle of the Fence” well there is an understanding about why they may think like that but when it comes down to it EVERY women leans more to the feminine side or dominant side where again these women will find comfort. The point that is trying to be made is that clothes done make the woman the woman makes the clothes. Which means anyone can wear a skirt and look feminine and anyone can lace up some Timbs and look studdy, but in the dark when the day is over the only thing that will show is your personality, which once again is either feminine or dominant.

Hopefully an interested woman would look past all the hoopla with what clothes are being worn and pay more attention to each member and what they are trying to accomplish within and outside of the organizations. As members, yes, we want to be around like individuals, but we are here to support each other in anyway possible and want to make living in the “Life” as less strenuous as possible while offering a lifelong friendship.

We have realized that there are labels but the terms “Femme” and “Stud” are ONLY used to capture a small essence of where an interested woman would fit in. There is so much emphasis on whether or not a woman is Femme or Stud and the point is clearly being missed about why these organizations were even founded.

So to answer the infamous question on Why are there two organizations. They are here and available to interested women to be with a group of women whom they feel comfortable with and how these women view themselves. While doing this a sense of worthiness, self-actualization, and a dedication to wanting to improve “Lesbianism” in the LGBT community will be more important than whether or not spending the majority of the time trying to distinguish who or what is a “Femme” or “Stud”.

Why a strictly Lesbian Sorority?

One question that is posed to Omicron Epsilon Pi Sorority Incorporated is why are we a strictly lesbian organization?  Some bisexual as well as lesbian women feel this is reverse discrimination towards bisexual and heterosexual women. This is not the case in any way.

Omicron Epsilon Pi was established to uplift the lesbian community as well as the female community as a whole. The lesbian community is an under represented community. We are stereotyped as well as ostracized because of something we can’t help. Omicron Epsilon Pi is a haven for lesbian women where they can fully be accepted without the fear of being ostracized or stereotyped.

Omicron Epsilon Pi understands that bisexual women have to come out as well as lesbians do. Omicron Epsilon Pi also understands that some bisexual women can maintain long lasting and monogamous relationships with women and be happy. Omicron Epsilon Pi also understands that some lesbians use the mask of being bisexual to gain an easier acceptance into society. We understand that bisexual women face prejudices as well as lesbians do.

With all this said lesbians have a different life than that of bisexual women. Lesbians don’t have a choice when it comes to whom we love. We are destined to love the same sex regardless of how society may feel. Many feel that the sexual and emotional encounters that women have with each other is what classifies them as being a lesbian. That is only a minor part of being a lesbian. Lesbianism is an inborn desire to be close to a woman that you can’t wholly understand or at times accept. Lesbianism is loving a woman as you love yourself and wanting the world for the both of you. Lesbianism is knowing and understanding that you can’t be happy with a man because he can never complete you as a woman can. Lesbianism is knowing that being with a woman is not wrong and that we are a who we are. Which makes us inherently different from bisexual and heterosexual women by definition. Omicron Epsilon Pi was founded to celebrate the triumphs and tragedies of lesbianism. And this is why we are a sisterhood for lesbians.

Research: Is it Really Necessary?

Most women in our generation take the time to research important decisions in their lives. How many women do you know just up and one day purchase a brand new vehicle without first getting their credit report, looking at the type of features they are looking for or even consulting their finances to see if at the present time they can afford the down payment and the car note? How many women do you know leave their children at a daycare center without first asking for credentials or references? How about the RESEARCH that every lesbian woman does on her future partner. Time is spent asking questions, checking past relationships, and conferring with friends. Like these situations choosing to be a part of a sorority is an important decision that should not be taken lightly.

Being apart of a sorority is a life long commitment, therefore, all sororities of interest should each be examined, researched, and compared, and the choice will be very clear for you once you take the time to look at what each one has to offer.

Like the movie, “Scream” there are rules to surviving the “Sorority Choosing Decision”

Rule 1- Keep an open mind

Going into each sorority take everything and situation as is and do not come with any preconceived notions about who the women are, what they do or even what the organization is about.

Rule 2- Ask questions

The only dumb question is the one never asked. Of course, there are some things that each organization cannot divulge but there are many other things that can be answered. In addition, the more questions you ask is another way for the sorority to weed itself out of the choices that you may have.

Rule 3- Look at the members

Converse with the members of each organization. Look at them in their sororities setting as well as outside of their letters. Ask yourself are the members genuine? Are they open to your questions? Do you share the same or even different interests? By looking at the members, they will give you a sense of how you may or may not fit in the organization. However, being different may not necessarily be a bad thing. In some cases, it may just be a breath of fresh air. The members make or break the organization, and remember actions always speak louder than words.

These “rules” are just the beginning of what you should do and help you find what you are looking for. It is only a guideline and can be added or subtracted to suit your personal interest. For example, if you care more about winning step shows more than community service projects then you would take your interests and fashion your questions to get the information that you want.

Above all else, do not let stereotypes keep you away from any organizations. In other words when approached by people outside of the organization believe none of what you hear and half of what you see. The best way to learn about any organization worthy of your time is to hear everything from the horses’ mouth.

All sororities are supposed to be growth institutions and should be designed to help widen your horizons, leadership skills, and friendships not to mention a lifelong sisterhood. If you do you research and stop listening to all the She say – She say each sorority will show its own true colors. Remember INITIALLY you choose the sorority so why not go where you believe that you will be the happiest and where your talents can grow.

What is a sorority?

A sorority is not entirely a flower, national conventions, monogrammed rings, worn out songs, by-laws, membership standards, or a golden pin. And, it is not entirely an institution, a creed, a legacy, an obligation, or a way of life.

If you are going to insist that it is something, a sorority is only moving in for the first time and slowly learning that all the beautiful people have fat legs and use mouthwash and wear last year’s coats.

A sorority is sitting next to an alumna you don’t like, and being nice because it means something to her.

A sorority is long, tired eternities of black coffee and exam snacks when you still can’t remember the Renaissance architects or the mossy taproot systems.

A sorority is feeling proud of the achievements of your sisters.

A sorority is sitting on the back steps and listening with all your helplessness because she’s lonely and it seems the whole world just fell into ugly little pieces.

A sorority is studying for that big exam, while a special friend types your ten-page research paper.

And it’s coming in very late one night and closing the door to tell someone who’s seen you through the hardest years of your life that you’re happy now and you’re getting married.

You learn that the world is made up of people you’re not going to like and you live with them anyway.

You learn that there is still a lot to believe in and a whole lot more to hope for.

You learn that love has never been easy and it’s a long time coming.

You learn that a friend means taking popcorn breaks to help each other through long all-nighters.

And in the end, a sorority girl can only be a better way to stumble down the stairs and out the front door!

– unknown

Her

She wears a crown of beauty for all the world to see,
and walks with a style of grace that exemplifies purity.

She gazes through the average soul personifying eloquence,
with just a simple glance you’re left breathless.

She strolls through life in her blue chariot of platinum fire,
exceeding her own goals to levels even higher.

With the crest of the lioness emblazoned across her chest,
she encompasses all things strong and elegant.

She’s as fierce as the hunter with the prey in her eyes,
and with one spoken word she has you hypnotized.

May you all be so lucky to come across THIS ONE,
the mother of the earth, woman-child of the sun.

The Heavens have parted ways for her to come through,
and I, one simple soldier in life, would love to get to know you.

Dedicated to all the wonderful ladies of Omicron Epsilon Pi

Tribute to Iota

To our Bruhs of Iota, we would like to say;
Sometimes the road gets bumpy and you might not see your way.
But you must always remember that Iota Lambda Pi was formed with a vision and not everyone will see it the whole way through.

Yet, the difference between the fallen and you is…
Some women join for the name, some women think it’s just a game and speak of making a difference but don’t have what it takes to bring change. Quality over Quantity is sometimes lost as other organizations open their doors to anyone that comes along. Forgetting that not everyone is fit to uphold what we represent.

So yes at times you may look around and wonder…”Where My Bruhs At”

But remember, the Bruh you’re looking for starts with the Bruh in you. Represent Iota at all times by being a woman of Integrity, Dignity, and Respect. Put your best shoulder forward and accept nothing but the best. Support your sisters
Love each other. Never lose hope and always remain focused.

To our Bruhs of Iota, we would like to say NOTHING and NO ONE can ever take your place. Rest not on the past but on the challenges you’ve overcome. Learn from your mistakes and advance with the wisdom that God has given you.

Love you all..

Your Sisters In Pi,
Omicron Epsilon Pi Sorority,Inc.

Written by: Soror Nykieria Chaney

A Prayer for my Sorors

When I awake in the morning I want to be birthed with the soul of a
woman so strong that the mention of her name send the weak running!
I want to be birthed with the endurance of a woman destined to change
the world.
See when I awake in the morning I want to look in the mirror and see an
image created by God.
Dressed with sunshine and created in his likeness.
Yes, when I open my eyes tomorrow I want to awake as an Omicron woman.
Tried and true
Embodied with kindness.
Destined for greatness.
Stronger than the average.
More beautiful than a ray of light.
Unlike any other I’ve ever come across.
God when I awake tomorrow
I want to belong to OEPI
A sisterhood created in hope
by women that worked their fingers to the bone
to make a home for women like me!!!!!
If you’ve never hear me lord
hear this prayer I pray tonight
Allow me to open my eyes
By the grace of God and be blessed with
the strength of an Omicron Woman.
Ladies of endurance, nurture and strength.
I want to awake tomorrow with a new attitude
Protected with an amour of true sisterhood
Me and those ladies of Oepi.
Let me walk in their light.
Protect us with yours!
Let me follow your way
as we follow yours.
Yes when I awake tomorrow I will be a new woman.
I will awake tomorrow with my sisters by my side
I will awake tomorrow in the Land of Pi.

Written by: Soror N. Chaney