We Never Walk Alone

Dear Sisters,

For Pi Phis, Sincere Friendship is a promise that’s woven into the way we live—our words, our actions and the relationships we foster. Our sisterhood is founded on our mutual pledge to support and care for one another along every step of life’s journey. We’re called to hold space for our sisters to share the hopes, fears, challenges and dreams of their lived experiences, whether they mirror or differ from our own.

As women, at some point in our personal journey, we answer the questions of whether, when and how our pathway leads to parenthood. For each of us, the route we take is unique and leads to a different outcome. As you'll read in the stories our members share within this issue, the path is charged with emotion. The spectrum of feelings and experiences is vast and deep, and the need for empathy is great.

Though our journeys are as individual as our fingerprints, as sisters, we walk together in spirit—even when our paths diverge. Because this conversation touches each of our lives, it’s an opportunity for us to listen to each other, learn from one another and provide the compassion and respect of Sincere Friendship. I have been fortunate enough to have Pi Phi sisters walk alongside me through many phases of my own parenthood journey. They provided encouragement through the many years I was sure being a parent would not be a part of my path, and my sisters remained my greatest supporters when I changed direction and recently became a new mom. No matter the journey we take, our sisters extend the reassurance that none of us walk alone.

Right now, wherever we are on our personal journey, we could all use the support of sisterhood as we endeavor down these paths. Questions around parenthood, and the infinite number of paths to it, have been pushed into the social spotlight in the wake of this summer’s landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. Despite the timing of the ruling, we felt it essential to not deviate from our year-long work of sharing our members’ parenthood stories with you. Just as the question of parenthood does, the ruling impacts all of us—but in ways unique to each individual. We must remain committed to showing Honor and Respect to one another regardless of our individual experiences, backgrounds and beliefs. We have a truly golden opportunity to authentically support each other as women and Sincere Friends.

I am in awe of the vulnerability these Pi Phis have shown in sharing their stories with our sisterhood. When faced with U-turns and road bumps they exhibited bravery, resilience and perseverance, many with Pi Phi sisters by their side along their pathway. The strength of our bond in Pi Phi comes from open minds, open hearts and the mutual promise that no matter where we are, no matter where our journey leads, we never walk alone.

In Pi Phi,

ASHLEY HALLOWELL KARTH

Associate Executive Director

Illinois Eta Millikin University