We live in a world where sexual violence is all too common. We live in a world where rape statistics on college campuses are far too high. And now, we live in a world where one fraternity has decided to put their foot down and say enough is enough.

It seems as though every other news story has something to do with a rape on a college campus, or another case of domestic violence. Following recent shocking statistics on sexual violence on college campuses, the Delta Chi Fraternity decided at their 59th International Convention that their men would not be just another statistic. As hundreds of brothers traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona in early August, few were aware that they would be a part of passing a resolution that would make them a piece of history. 

The day began with debates on a wide variety of topics ranging from GPA requirements of active brothers, to limiting the time period of associate member processes, and other pressing issues with the fraternity. When it came time to discuss the matter of sexual and domestic violence and vote on a resolution, resounding support echoed throughout the room, and brothers were determined to be a part of eradicating this issue on their respective campuses. The resolution essentially states that all brothers, members, and staff of Delta Chi will cooperate with investigations, and, "refrain from any coercion or act of sexual assault, sexual harassment, domestic or dating violence, or stalking." Should they be found liable for any of these actions, they will be will be charged with "conduct unbecoming of a Delta Chi" and will be "adjudicated under Delta Chi Law." 

The Delta Chi Fraternity, originally founded as a law fraternity - until 1922 when it became a general membership social fraternity - still maintains observance of the law as one of its prime principals, as denoted by the motto "Leges", or law. This resolution, while it may seem that its contents should go without saying, serves as Delta Chi's contribution to making college campuses a safer place, and to impress upon the general membership that these situations are not taken lightly by either the law, or the fraternity itself. Convention attendee, and President of the Florida State Chapter of Delta Chi weighed in his opinion on the resolution by saying, "It's definitely a step in the right direction. This is such a current issue that we are faced with as college students and I'm proud to be a brother of the fraternity at the forefront of taking a stand". 

I think its clear to say the men of Delta Chi have made quite a statement, and hopefully many other fraternities will follow in their footsteps, working to make sexual violence statistics diminish on college campuses and our communities as a whole.