Sorority apologizes for congratulating Amy Coney Barrett
The Kappa Delta sorority apologized for a social media post congratulating Supreme Court justice nominee and Kappa Delta alumna Amy Coney Barrett.
Kappa Delta sisters petitioned and wrote op-eds denouncing Barrett.
The Kappa Delta sorority deleted and apologized for a congratulatory message for Amy Coney Barrett, who was a member of the sorority during her time at Rhodes College.
The sorority tweeted an image of a statement, saying “KD alumna Amy Coney Barrett was nominated to serve on the Supreme Court. While we do not take a stand on political appointments, we recognize Judge Coney Barrett’s significant accomplishment. We acknowledge our members have a variety of views and a right to their own beliefs.”
The next day, the sorority deleted the tweet and posted an apology statement.
— Kappa Delta Sorority (@KappaDeltaHQ) September 29, 2020
The organization stated that it was “deeply sorry” for the “hurtful” original statement.
“Our approach was disappointing and hurtful to many,” said the new statement. “We did not intend to enter a political debate, take a stand on the Supreme Court nomination, cause division among our sisters, or alienate any of our members.”
The sorority also recalled its new “intentional journey” to focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“Thank you for holding us accountable,” it concluded.
[RELATED: VIDEO: Conservative women counter the Left’s attacks on Amy Coney Barrett]
However, many on Twitter expressed disappointment in the apology.
“Don’t let the internet bully you,” said one user. “It’s an amazing accomplishment that one of our sisters was nominated to the highest court in the land! Regardless of politics or not. Also, judges judge based off the constitution and law, not opinions and politics.”
“What’s disappointing is that you let yourself be bullied and showed that ‘once a KD always a KD’ isn’t true. Amy Coney Barrett, regardless of her political affiliation, is a Kappa Delta sister. She deserves acknowledgement for her achievement from her sorority. Disgraceful,” said another.
Alumni also launched a petition titled “Kappa Deltas Against Judge Amy Coney Barrett,” which alleges that Barrett “does not intend to defend the rights of marginalized peoples,” including “BIPOC and LGBQT+ communities.”
The petition has garnered more than 11,500 signatures.
[RELATED: Notre Dame staff, students and alumni praise Amy Coney Barrett nomination]
Eli Dueker, a Kappa Delta alum, professor at Bard College, and self-professed transgender man, wrote an op-ed denouncing Barrett’s potential influence on the Supreme Court. Dueker recalled Barrett as “a dedicated new sister, whip-smart, and incredibly kind,” but expressed concern that “access to healthcare and abortion” for “women, men, non-binary people — whether queer, trans, or straight” would be threatened if Barrett is confirmed.
“I reject the idea of a Judge Coney Barrett, whose views undermine the health and safety of others, having a lifetime sway on the Supreme Court stage,” said Dueker.
Bard College promoted Dueker’s letter on its official website.
Campus Reform reached out to Kappa Delta for comment and will update this article accordingly.
Follow the author of this article on Twitter: @BenZeisloft
