FGCU BETAS
The F.I.R.M. Family
"Royal by color, united by purpose."
Joining Sigma Lambda Beta isn't just about Brotherhood; it's about Family.
What is F.I.R.M. Fam? The F.I.R.M. Family—short for the First Inter-Racially Mixed Family—is one of the most respected and unified coalitions in the Greek-letter world. Also referred to as the Royal Family, this group is recognized for its deep commitment to cultural unity, academic excellence, and service. Composed of: Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., our "cuzzos", Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., our "primas", and Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc., our "sisters" or "hermanas", we represent a collective legacy of brotherhood, sisterhood, and solidarity across ethnic and cultural lines. Another family that may be referenced is nested within F.I.R.M. and is often referred to as "Purple Fam", or SLB and SLG together.
How did it all begin? The story of F.I.R.M. begins with Founding Father Baltazar Mendoza-Madrigal. Originally a brother of Phi Beta Sigma athe University of Redlands, Baltazar witnessed firsthand the power of Sigmas' service to the African American community. When he transferred to the University of Iowa in 1985, however, he noticed that his Sigma brothers there were reluctant to accept his Latino peers into the fold. Respecting their perspective but inspired nonetheless, he envisioned a similar organization tailored to the Latino experience. With his heart set on starting his own organization, Mendoza-Madrigal sought out 17 other men claiming ethnicities around the world. While Mendoza-Madrigal originally intended to keep his activities a secret, the Sigmas on campus caught wind of his plans and tensions were high. After some open discussion, it was pretty quickly realized that Mendoza-Madrigal had pure intentions and he soon received the support of local Sigmas. Soon enough, Sigma Lambda Beta was born, and despite its historically-Latino roots, its multicultural status was set in stone forever. This foundational act created a natural bond between SLB and PBS: not just in values and mission, but in brotherhood and respect. SLB and SLG share a familial history, as SLG’s earliest members were supported not only by SLB brothers, but also by Esther Materon-Arum and honorary Bro. Mary Peterson whom played large roles in the founding and growth of both organizations. PBS and SLB share similar structures, values, and goals—reflecting their shared roots. ZPB and SLG, likewise, share in the legacy of empowering underrepresented communities through sisterhood and action. And of course—Royal Blue for the Sigmas and the Zetas, and Royal and Majestic Purple for the Betas and Gammas, respectively: two colors symbolizing nobility, legacy, and unity. The nickname Royal Family just makes sense.
And today? While F.I.R.M. Fam is not constitutionally recognized on the national level due to its informal history, its recognition is strong nationwide and especially in the Southeastern US. This family was born from shared struggle, mutual respect, and a desire to uplift our communities—not to mimic, but to magnify. To emphasize our commitment to the F.I.R.M. Family, our Chapter constitution and bylaws officially recognize these bonds on campus. In an often divided world, the F.I.R.M. Family stands as a powerful example of what happens when cultures connect, values align, and leaders rise. Through collaboration, mutual support, and a shared royal lineage, the family remains committed to progress and unity—on campus and beyond.