Indigenous sorority faces uncertainty under federal anti-DEI orders

Alpha Pi Omega Sorority, the nation’s oldest and largest Indigenous Greek letter organization, is concerned about its future on college campuses amid a series of executive orders from the Trump administration targeting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, according to The 19th. Founded to support Indigenous women in higher education, the sorority has 14 undergraduate chapters, 11 professional chapters and more than 900 members from nearly 130 tribes.

Sorority grand president and leader LaDonna Richardson said most undergraduate chapters are based at predominantly white institutions and could struggle to attract new members if DEI programs are curtailed. Federal judges have blocked some of the administration’s orders, but others remain in effect or unchallenged. Alpha Pi Omega members at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke — home to the largest Native American student population in North Carolina — say the sorority provides a vital sense of belonging, mentorship and cultural connection for Indigenous students.