Alpha Epsilon Pi was founded to provide a home for Jewish students and to help them develop leadership, community, and a lifelong connection to Jewish values. As a fraternity rooted in Jewish tradition, AEPi believes that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. These values are central to our support for Pride and our commitment to creating welcoming communities for all.
Judaism teaches that every person is created b’tzelem Elohim, in the image of G-d. This foundational concept, found in the Book of Genesis, reminds us that human beings possess inherent worth and dignity. Throughout Jewish history, this principle has inspired communities to care for others, stand against discrimination, and foster environments where individuals can live authentically and safely.
The Jewish experience itself is one of understanding the importance of belonging. For centuries, Jews have faced prejudice and marginalization. As a result, many Jewish values emphasize empathy for those who may feel different or isolated. The Torah repeatedly instructs us to care for the stranger and to remember what it feels like to be excluded. These teachings encourage us to build communities that are welcoming and supportive rather than judgmental or exclusionary.
Pride Month offers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals while reflecting on the ongoing work of creating communities where all people are treated with respect. For AEPi, supporting Pride is not separate from our Jewish mission; it is connected to it. We believe that fraternity should be a place where members can develop meaningful friendships, grow as leaders, and find a sense of belonging. Those goals are strengthened when every brother feels valued and respected.
Jewish tradition also emphasizes the importance of kavod habriyot, the dignity of all people. This principle teaches that preserving human dignity is a sacred responsibility. While members of the Jewish community may hold diverse personal, cultural, and religious perspectives, we can unite around the belief that every individual deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. AEPi’s commitment to brotherhood requires us to uphold those standards in our chapters, on our campuses, and throughout our organization.
Supporting Pride also reflects the Jewish value of tikkun olam, the responsibility to help repair and improve the world around us. Creating inclusive communities is part of that work. It means listening to one another, building understanding, and ensuring that all members have the opportunity to participate fully in fraternity life.
We often say in AEPi that our responsibility to “Be Our Brothers’ Keepers” is paramount. We all share a responsibility to provide for the well-being of our brothers, guests, neighbors, campus, and community. Caring for each other and for our community is an integral part of our shared values.
As the world’s Jewish college fraternity, AEPi is proud of its mission and our values to develop principled leaders guided by Jewish values. During Pride Month and throughout the year, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering communities rooted in respect, dignity, and brotherhood. By embracing these values, we honor both our Jewish heritage and our responsibility to create a stronger, more welcoming future for everyone.
Pride is an AEPi value.
