Latina sorority members come out to greet Greeks

New sisters of UNC's chapter of Latina-based sorority Sigma Lambda Gamma were welcomed into the fold and formally introduced to Greek Life Saturday on Turner Green.

Every year, SLG hosts a similar show for their new members to introduce themselves to other SLG sisters, Greek community members and peers.

"Our sorority likes to put on the show because we want to bring our girls out and welcome them into the Greek world," said Rebecca Reyes, vice president and community chair of SLG. "We want to show everyone that our girls are legit."

Other members said welcoming is a big part of what the coming-out show is about.

"We want to introduce our girls and welcome them into the Greek community," said Kayleigh Mullins, a junior journalism and communication studies major.

Sigma Lambda Gamma is also the fastest-growing Latina sorority in the United States.

"A lot of people choose us because of our diversity," Reyes said. "They come and join our sorority for the cultural backgrounds."

The sorority is currently active in all 50 states but its number of active sisters is unknown to headquarters because of graduates and pledges. There are currently 23 active members at the University of Northern Colorado.

On Saturday, four girls became active members of the sorority.

To introduce them to everyone in Greek Life, the four new girls were welcomed by each sorority and fraternity on campus as well as traditional clubs and member families.

With each introduction and welcome, the girls would sing a popular song but change the words to fit the group they were introducing.

Afterward, the girls introduced themselves and told the crowd why they were chosen to be a Sigma Lambda Gamma and why they chose the sorority.

"I believe in the principles SLG puts forth," said Cecilia Ramirez, a sophomore elementary education major. "Their principles are very important to me and that is what made me want to become one of the members."

Another new member said she liked everything about the sorority and that is why she wanted to be a part of it.

"I like everything about this sorority," said Sophia Hadjinicolaou, a senior elementary education major. "I think everyone who isn't a Sigma Lambda Gamma should be jealous."