A student at the University of Central Florida is claiming a fraternity rejected him for being gay.
George Dumont, 19, said members of Beta Theta Pi made it crystal clear that his sexuality would prevent him from becoming a brother, 630wpro.com reported.
"It nearly broke me, to be honest," Dumont said. "...I've been through a very dark period where, you know, I probably wouldn't be here today if it weren't for a couple of really close friends."
After the incident, Dumont used social media to share his story and posted a video to YouTube describing the ordeal. He also filed a complaint with the university, who then began investigating the incident.
"The entire reason behind my removal from the Zeta Psi Chapter of Beta Theta Pi at the University of Central Florida was simple; I was an openly gay man," the complaint states.
However, the fraternity's president, Nathanael Jones, denied the claims and mentioned they have gay members.
"The men of Beta Theta Pi are certainly disappointed by the recent video statement indicating our chapter is intolerant based upon sexual orientation," Jones said in a statement.
"Our brothers have gay relatives and gay friends, and we have long prided ourselves on being an inclusive fraternity that values diversity in all forms."
Chad Binnette, a UCF spokesman, said talks are being organizing between Dumont and the fraternity members to resolve the issues between them and will include diversity experts, psychologists, and faculty members.
"The goal is to provide support for students who also many not know where they can turn for help if they feel like they're a victim or witness of bias," Binnette said.
