FROM THE EDITOR

During the last few years, the focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has been prevalent more than ever in my lifetime. Taking part in these conversations can be diffi cult. You might welcome the subject but for others, it may be uncomfortable. It isn’t meant to be easy, but if there is one thing I have learned throughout my young adult years, it’s that you never learn anything by staying in your comfort zone.

As a woman of color, I am no stranger to discrimination in my daily life. As a child, I was regularly asked if I was adopted because I don’t look like my mom and step dad. I have often been the only person of color in the room. As an adult in an interracial marriage, I have been made to feel uncomfortable by others, sometimes simply from the judgement of a stranger in a grocery store. In Alpha Sigma Alpha, I am thankful I have had positive experiences in my chapter and as a staff member, however, I realize that is not the reality for all members.

While doing research for the magazine's DEI feature, it was discovered that there were Black women who were barred from membership, simply due to the color of their skin. After seeing something so negative in our history, I am happy to see how Alpha Sigma Alpha has evolved over the years. Today, I am proud to write to you as the fi rst Black editor of the Phoenix.

Alpha Sigma Alpha is taking the steps to dive head fi rst into this diffi cult topic, acknowledging that just maybe our Sorority has not always been welcoming to all. By taking the time to address our history and the impact of it, we can move forward with positive change. My hope is to see these conversations continue. Not just because of today’s current events, but because we are showing care and concern for other communities, while committing ourselves to growth as an organization and as individuals.

This issue is meant to acknowledge Alpha Sigma Alpha’s past while we grow together as a sisterhood, ensuring we are committed to doing better and being better in the future. Immersing yourself in this topic is only the fi rst step to expanding your knowledge. I encourage you to have challenging conversations, research history and learn the stories of other people in your communities. While reading, I hope this prompts you to elevate all women in the world.

Happy reading,

LeXI JOHNsON, BΘ dIReCtOR OF COMMUNICatIONs & MaRKetING

sHaRe YOUR tHOUGHts

We welcome comments about this publication. Email asa@alphasigmaalpha.org or mail to: Editor, Alpha Sigma Alpha 9002 Vincennes Circle Indianapolis, IN 46268 Volume 108| Issue 2

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EDITOR Lexi Johnson

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