We the members of Sigma Alpha Mu would like to formally respond to the allegations made against members of our fraternity during the Take Back The Night rally and march last week. We would like to first state that we fully understand the seriousness and severity of what occurred. The women involved in this rally have suffered through tragedies far beyond any of our wildest nightmares.

We, too, take this issue very seriously as a result of several incidents with girlfriends and family members of our brothers. Each semester, our new candidates go through the IFC-sponsored Sexual Assault and Violence Educational Program where they learn about issues that occur and how to deal with potentially dangerous situations.

Upon receiving an accusational letter last Thursday, our executive board was upset and embarrassed that one of our brothers could make such an insensitive remark. We immediately began an in-house investigation, contacting every brother living in and out of the house, and subsequently discussed it in our Chapter meeting on Monday evening. The unanimous sentiment throughout the house was that every brother was shocked and appalled that such allegations could be made towards a house that takes this particular issue so seriously.

Not only did every brother deny any involvement in this incident, each member was furious that allegations without inquiry had been made and publicized against our fraternity and our brotherhood. Just as we understand the seriousness of this issue, we also understand the seriousness and the detrimental ramifications of such an accusation. A charge of this nature can permanently tarnish the reputation of individuals and an entire brotherhood.