Ladies of the Orient
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Ladies of the Orient
The Ladies of the Orient (LOTO) is a women’s fraternal organization operating in the United States and Canada. It originated as an independent women’s body with historical ties to Rebekah-related circles, while maintaining a distinct and separate organizational identity.
Although it maintains a close relationship with the Ancient Mystic Order of Samaritans (AMOS), the Ladies of the Orient is not an auxiliary body, but an independent organization founded and governed entirely by women, and does not require affiliation with any male counterpart organization.
History
The Ladies of the Orient traces its origins to 1915 in Syracuse, New York, where its first unit, Pioneer Zuanna No. 1, was established by Emily Voorheis.
It was formed as a social and fraternal body intended to provide recreation and fellowship as a complement to the more serious charitable work of related fraternal organizations already active among its members.
In 1921, the organization was incorporated in the State of New York under the formal title:
Supreme Royal Zuanna of the Mystic Degrees of Persecution and Purification, Ladies of the Orient of the United States and Canada
From its early development, the organization expanded into both the United States and Canada.
Structure
Local units of the Ladies of the Orient are known as zuannas.
Each zuanna is governed by a presiding officer known as the Great Ashayhi, who oversees meetings, ceremonial work, and local administration.
Higher administrative structures exist for regional and national coordination, with officers and representatives overseeing multiple zuannas within defined jurisdictions.
Relationship to Other Bodies
The Ladies of the Orient maintains a close fraternal relationship with the Ancient Mystic Order of Samaritans (AMOS). However, it is not a dependent or auxiliary body.
It is an independent organization with its own membership requirements, governance, and ritual structure.
Symbols and Regalia
The basic regalia of the Ladies of the Orient consists of a white fez bearing:
- The letter “Z” enclosed within a triangle and crescent
- A yellow tassel representing general membership
The “Z” represents zuanna.
Higher ranks use variations in tassel color and insignia. For example:
- A white fez with a purple tassel is traditionally associated with Past Ashayhis
Charitable Focus
The organization maintains charitable activity, including support for causes related to cognitive disabilities, aligning with broader philanthropic traditions found within associated fraternal systems.