Tri Delta was founded at Boston University in 1888 by Sarah Ida Shaw and Eleanor Pond, who envisioned a “society that shall be kind alike to all and think more of a girl’s inner self and character than of her personal appearance.” Since then, Tri Delta has expanded to 141 collegiate chapters both in the United States and Canada, and we are proud to share a sisterhood that holds each member accountable to be the best version of herself.
Sororities were started to create a welcoming society for women who were often discriminated against in higher education. Though our founders had aimed to create a safe haven for women, we recognize that our chapter, as well as other national organizations, historically have been a part of a system that prevents Women of Color from entering these very communities. We acknowledge that systemic racism is deeply rooted in Panhellenic Sororities, and we have contributed to that system by failing to speak out against past injustices until now. Our aim is to be better, and act upon our promise.
Tri Delta was founded on the belief that society should be “kind alike to all.” As Tri Deltas, we are called to be brave, to be bold, and to be kind. The members of the Theta Xi chapter of Delta Delta Delta at the University of Southern California recognize that there is much to do in terms of acknowledging and striving to overcome the racial biases that exist throughout the community. With our new DEI plan, we are striving to create a organization that is a welcoming community to all members, regardless of race, religion, sexual identity, or ability.
