Earler this semester, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender community and its allies (LGBTA), and greek organizations agreed to create educational programming that would foster understanding between the groups and create "safe space" for students in both communities. While LGBTA organizers have said three of the four greek organizations involved have moved ahead enthusiastically with the initiative, accusations surfaced last week that the Interfraternity Council (IFC) has lacked the interest that the Panhellenic Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council and Multicultural Greek Council have shown.

According to Sara Ryan, president of Allies, the Penn State organization that works to show support for the LGBTA community, there has been a lack of interest and involvement from IFC and its member organizations. IFC President Andy Hackett responded by citing busy schedules and high demand for fraternity involvement from different groups. If true, this is an unfortunate response to a valuable, student-organized initiative. It is also a chance for IFC to exercise its ability to spread understanding.

The plan involves implementating a four-step program, including "straight talks," which are presentations used to educate those with no LGBTA community experience. However, Ryan said that few fraternities have hosted talks.

Although there is no doubt IFC and individual chapters are busy and contribute positively to the community through philanthropy and service, these groups also have an additional social responsibility. In fact, according to its constitution, part of IFC's purpose is "to promote the intellectual, philanthropic, fraternal and social values of the fraternities at the Pennsylvania State University, and to maintain cooperation between these social fraternities, their respective inter/national headquarters, alumni, the State College community, and the Pennsylvania State University."

While there are many ways to support cooperation and encourage the other ideals and values at the heart of IFC's existence and purpose, the LGBTA initiative is one of those ways, and the effort and cooperation is there on the part of the Allies. Now it's time for IFC and its member groups to prove they are willing to cooperate by making this program a priority. If immediate action is not feasible, IFC -- at the least -- can show a commitment to the issue by formulating a concrete plan for the program's future implementation.