Malcolm L. Smith, MBA
Delta Phi Upsilon Fraternity Inc.
PD: Why did you want to be a member of DPHIU?
MS: Let me first begin by giving you a brief history of Delta Phi Upsilon fraternity, Inc. (DPhiU), America’s first intercollegiate fraternity for gay men of color, founded in 1985 at Florida State University.
DPHIU was founded to unite young gay men of color on college campuses. Our founding came about because many young gay men were being rejected from the traditional Greek-Letter organizations due to their alleged sexuality. The reason I say “alleged” is because at that time, many of us were what we now call “on the DL or down low”. However, due to our articulation and/or effeminate mannerisms and maybe attire, we were denied membership into these organizations. On the other hand, those of us who managed to slip through often talk about not having a voice in their organizations when asked about their experience.
I became a member of Delta Phi Upsilon because I was one of those young gay men who were denied membership even though considered a “legacy” (a family member belonged to an organization). Upon graduation, I was later invited to join but refused because I was never given a meaningful explanation for my denial after meeting the given criteria. Joining DPhiU meant that I could be myself while at the same time having a voice in an organization that was comprised of men like myself.
PD: What makes this organization different from any other organization?
MS: DPhiU is no different than any other community service organization. Although most of our work and service is in the gay community, we believe in and stand up for the same issues that affect all people (e.g. economy, education, and healthcare). I would prefer if you asked what makes us “unique” and my answer would be our tenacity, loyalty and brotherhood despite the misconceptions people have about our founding.
PD: What is your position with the fraternity?
MS: I am currently a general member and co-chair of the fraternity’s inaugural GOLD-TIE Gayla. The GOLD-TIE Gayla is a fundraiser and awards ceremony that honors the accomplishments of men, women and organizations who have significantly contributed to the enhancement of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender LGBT community. The Gayla will be held July 16, 2011 in Miami, Florida www.goldtiegayla.org
PD: What have been the fraternity’s most notable contributions to society in its history and since you’ve been members?
PD: I believe the fraternity’s most notable contribution to society is our founding. Since our arrival, approximately 30 other LGBT sororities and fraternities now exist on college campuses around the country. Young gay men and women can join organizations comprised of people like themselves while attaining an education.
The GOLD-TIE Gayla, in which I co-chair, will be our inaugural fundraising event. We plan to make this an annual event. Proceeds earned from this event will grant college scholarships to young LGBT people.
PD: What current projects is DPhiU working on in the D.C. Metropolitan area?
MS: The DC Metro community is comprised of two chapters “Morgan State University and the Baltimore-Washington Colony”. Each month the chapters choose a different community service project and provide services through volunteerism (e.g. Foods and Friends, Whitman-Walker AIDS walk, AVON Breast Cancer). Each Fall the chapters also host a”College Readiness Workshop” for students who are interested in attending college.
PD: What are the primary future goals?
MS: The organization has many goals for the future. Currently we are promoting our five national programs of Education, Political Empowerment, Health and Awareness, History and Heritage and National Expansion. We will meet next year in Miami Florida for our 6th International convention to determine our future.
PD: As a member at Strayer University, did the members face any obstacles in the chapter’s progression that they might not have otherwise at another institution?
MS: I attended Florida A&M and Strayer University. Strayer, however, is a non-traditional university geared towards working adults. Unlike traditional colleges, there are few Greek-letter organizations, only honor societies. However, I plan to return to the university in the near future to start a chapter with hopes of facing no obstacles. AKA and SGHRO do have chapters at the university.
To answer your question, the only obstacles that many of our chapters are facing is meeting the criteria for establishing organizations set by the college or university (e.g. faculty advisor and membership number)
PD: Do you see any changes in yourself since you’ve become a member?
MS: Yes, I have seen a change in me. I can sum it up with two words, Community Service. I am now more active and passionate about the issues that affect the LGBT and Black Community specifically, HIV/AIDS and its spread among black women. Before pledging DPHIU, I never spoke outwardly about this issue nor was I concerned about those statistics that stated an increase in the spread of the disease. I now spend every opportunity I have talking about the topic when a group of black women are gathered.
PD: There have been several cases within the last few months where teenagers and pre-teens have resorted to suicide to rid themselves of the torment of being bullied because they are gay and/or because they are different. Has your organization reached out to or made any statements on a national or local level in regards to situations like these?
MS: Yes, through our program “Project Image” we reach out to young gay men monthly hosting seminars on issues that young gay men face today including suicide. Through these programs we build self esteem, promote positive images and provide support services for those who may need help. We research, participate, and provide information about other LBGT organizations that provide the same services but on a weekly basis.
PD: What advice do you have for any young gay men of color pursuing higher education in this era?
MS: Education is extremely important in today’s society. Statistics show that regardless of race, creed or sexual orientation, those who pursue higher education have a better life. They get higher paying jobs which in turn build wealth and believe it or not they have less health issues.
*For more information on Delta Phi Upsilon, please visit www.dphiu.org
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