Sigma Lambda Gamma shows ‘Love for Palestine’ this Valentine’s Day

This Valentine’s Day, Sigma Lambda Gamma had one goal; to make a difference. 

The Elmhurst University sorority hosted a ‘Love For Palestine’ fundraiser, selling roses and chocolates for which all proceeds would be donated to the American Friends Service Committee, which pledged to send the funds directly to Gaza.

The event, which was hosted in the Founders Lounge, saw a healthy turnout. The fundraiser garnered $245, an amount that everyone involved in the event was grateful for. 

Even more impactful than the money was the sorority’s commitment to global education. They included print-outs explaining how the current conflict between Israel and Gaza has been impacting the people in Gaza, and how the population would greatly benefit from donations. 

Sigma Lambda Gamma’s president, Ysabel Avalos, said the sorority felt the need to start the fundraiser after seeing everything that’s going on in Gaza. 

“Our goal was to show solidarity with Gaza, as well as with all Palestinian students at Elmhurst and/or students affected by the crisis, especially being that we are a multicultural organization,” said Avalos. “Fundraising for Gaza is backed by our principles of community service, cultural awareness, and moral and ethics.”

Indeed, the sorority’s mission statement highlights its commitment to “the progression of a positive global community,” and stresses “the importance of morals, ethics, and education in our daily lives so that we serve the needs of our neighbors through a mutual respect and understanding of our varying cultures.” 

Avalos said she is proud of her sorority, but that she has one regret.

“We were silent for far too long,” Avalos begins, citing some backlash from alumni regarding their silence on the conflict. “We stand with our sisters and the people of Palestine, and we call for an immediate ceasefire and delivery of humanitarian aid.” 

While the sorority’s response may have been belated, there’s no question they’ve made a difference in their own way, and they don’t plan on stopping there. 

“We will continue to ask our community to educate, advocate, post, donate, boycott, and contact their representatives,” stated Avalos.