Most of the tags that we have in our sorority and fraternity sections are not attached to individual keys. These tags are tied to the collective ceremonial keys that have the appropriate Greek lettering. From what I've gathered, many Greek life organizations revolve around the house, and to that house there are undoubtedly keys.
To be entrusted with the key to a sorority or fraternity house implies a great power an responsibility. Some houses are small, with just a few inhabitants, but some of the bigger houses can hold hundreds people. Having the key to "the house" is very attune to being a member of a club, being trusted to not give access to those outside of the accepted circle. Of course this type of elitism leads to toxic exclusivity, and can lead to some of the negative stereotypes of the typical sorority or fraternity house.
Despite their national reputation, sorority and fraternity are more popular than ever as an increasing percentage of young people are attending college. The benefits of Greek life are so often understated that many of the detractors against these organizations fail to recognize them. Sororities or fraternities offer young men and women positions of leadership and responsibility that goes beyond just having a key to the house. They are spaces in which young people can create their own worlds, and that is a valuable experience to some as they turn of age.The keys on our wall represent the pride that people hold for these organizations.
by Adam Dohn
