Brotherhood and Fun in the Sun

4th Annual SigEp Chicago Society Palm Springs Weekend: A Celebration of Brotherhood and Belonging

This October, the SigEp Chicago Society hosted its 4th Annual Palm Springs weekend, welcoming nearly a dozen GBTQ+ brothers, their partners and allies from nine chapters nationwide. The gathering offered a vibrant mix of connection, celebration, and reflection—strengthening bonds across generations and geographies

The weekend was intentionally designed for a low-key atmosphere, fostering genuine interaction and relaxation among attendees.

Highlights were as diverse as the group itself.

From lively shared meals that sparked meaningful conversation to the electric nightlife of the Coachella Valley, the weekend offered something for everyone. A spirited evening of drag bingo brought laughter and lighthearted competition, while poolside shenanigans at the Ace Hotel offered a refreshing escape from the desert heat. An especially cherished moment was brothers hosting a home-cooked brunch, graced by the presence of SigEp First Lady Dina Calderon, whose warmth and elegance elevated the gathering.

Brother Adam Fowler captured the spirit of the weekend best:

“It’s such a treat to see brothers and their partners in a relaxed atmosphere outside formal fraternity events.”

His words resonated deeply, underscoring the power of informal gatherings to foster lasting relationships and a strong sense of community within the SigEp brotherhood.

A Legacy Rooted in Inclusion

For those unfamiliar with its origins, the Chicago Society takes its name from a pivotal moment in SigEp’s journey toward inclusivity. At the 46th Grand Chapter Conclave in Chicago in 1999, the Fraternity voted to extend its groundbreaking 1959 non-discrimination policy—originally focused on race, religion, and creed—to explicitly include sexual orientation. This historic amendment to the Grand Chapter Bylaws reaffirmed SigEp’s commitment to building a diverse and welcoming brotherhood. The Chicago Society stands as a living tribute to that legacy.

Looking Ahead: October 9–12, 2026

Plans are already underway for the 5th Annual SigEp Chicago Society Palm Springs weekend. Brothers, partners, and allies interested in attending—or helping shape the next unforgettable experience—are encouraged to reach out. To learn more or get involved in planning, please send a direct message to Scott Schwartz.