Following what feels like a string of failures in fraternity values this spring, fraternities nationwide have been no stranger to criticism. Hazing, sexual assault and racism have seemed to take a front seat in the media's portrayal of the brotherhood, while philanthropic efforts and the very values on which fraternities are built have failed to make headlines. Of course, there is no excuse for the behaviors that have come to light this spring, and yet are the actions of these men enough to call fraternities toxic?

On May 5, the Progressive Student Organization (PSO) will host a campus-wide panel discussion entitled “Addressing the Toxicity of Frat Culture." The PSO states it “is an umbrella group focused around drawing the left-wing forces on campus together." Supporting social values, the organization plans to call into question misogyny and chauvinism within the fraternity system. The event on Facebook tells students to come ask questions and share their experiences with the UT fraternity system. The panel will be held at 7:30 p.m. in Mez. 1.306.

There is no way to excuse the racist parties, sexual assault or hazing that have come to be associated with the Greek system. Still, toxic does not seem a fair word to use. Although there have been embarrassing, all-together disappointing fraternity behaviors, there is also a side to fraternities that many forget exists. There are the many philanthropic events in which brothers donate their time and efforts to in order to help others. Even more than that, fraternities give college men a sense of community and a brotherhood away from home, one that will often be the most remembered part of their college experience.