 Phi Mu Delta Fraternity has become the first national fraternity to join forces with the Students Learn Students Vote (SLSV) Coalition. This coalition, the largest nonpartisan network in the United States, is dedicated to increasing college student voter participation. As a crucial partner, Phi Mu Delta will bring its unique resources and expertise to the table, furthering the coalition's mission. This partnership solidifies Phi Mu Delta's century-old commitment to democratic values, a commitment that has been at the heart of its foundation. Established in 1918 amidst the turmoil of World War I and the Spanish Flu pandemic, Phi Mu Delta originated from a federation promoting inclusivity and equality in the face of fraternity discrimination. The fraternity's six founders envisioned an organization centered on camaraderie, service, and preserving democratic principles. This ethos, deeply rooted in the fraternity's history, is embodied in the Phi Mu Delta Founders Creed, which declares: "I Believe in Democracy...I hold that justice is the foremost principle to be considered in making my decisions as a voting member... I Believe in Service...service is defined in the terms of voluntary sacrifice for the welfare of those with whom I come in contact. I Believe in Brotherhood...brotherhood that reaches beyond the limits of Phi Mu Delta and welcomes every man as my Brother." Phi Mu Delta, as a nonpartisan organization, recognizes the importance of combating political polarization on campuses. It believes that the tenets of civil discourse must be not just taught but also practiced. In this unique position, the fraternity is poised to shape future leaders by instilling in them the vital democratic skills of civil discourse, critical thinking, empathy, and more. Phi Mu Delta's partnership with SLSV is not just a collaboration, but a testament to its commitment to democracy. This partnership offers Phi Mu Delta's 13 chapters and members access to SLSV's vast resources for nonpartisan voter engagement and internship opportunities. It also provides a unique platform for them to further their commitment to service and democracy. Through this partnership, Phi Mu Delta members can gain valuable experience in civic engagement, connect with a wide network of like-minded individuals, and make a real difference in their communities. Phi Mu Delta's Executive Director, Sam Waltemeyer, expressed the fraternity's unwavering commitment to promoting civic engagement and voter participation on campuses nationwide. "This partnership aligns seamlessly with Phi Mu Delta's founding principles of upholding democracy and delivering impactful service to the communities we belong to, and underscores the fraternity's leadership in this important area." SLSV convenes colleges, nonprofits, students, and philanthropists to increase student voter access and turnout. Their theory of change focuses on empowering local campus leaders to overcome systemic barriers by embedding voter registration, education, and mobilization into university processes. Phi Mu Delta has already demonstrated this passion through recent efforts. During Spring 2024, its chapters engaged over 500 students in voter registration drives for local and national elections. As a technology partner with Rock The Vote, the fraternity leverages online tools to increase accessibility. The partnership arrives at a pivotal moment as SLSV's 2024 priorities include sustaining high student voter turnout rates, closing racial participation gaps, growing campus participation in voter engagement, and empowering students to make positive change, especially locally. Phi Mu Delta is fully committed to these priorities and, through our partnership with SLSV, we are poised to make significant strides in these areas, furthering our mission to uphold democracy and deliver impactful service to the communities we belong to. Guided by the Founders Creed to 'live up to' their democratic beliefs' to the best of [their] ability,' Phi Mu Delta is forging a new path. As SLSV's inaugural national fraternity partner, they embody the burgeoning influence of student voters, advocating for their voices to be amplified through the ballot box. This pioneering role not only underscores the fraternity's commitment to democracy but also instills a sense of hope and optimism for the future of student voter engagement. |