Hazing

Hazing is… Any activity expected of someone joining a group which humiliates, degrades, or risks emotional/physical harm

Three Main Types of Hazing Subtle Harassment Violent

Subtle Hazing Any activity or attitude directed towards a pledge which embarrasses, humiliates, or ridicules. –Examples Silence Periods Demerits Scavenger hunts for meaningless objects Requiring pledges to carry handbooks or paddles everywhere to get signatures Calling pledge “pledgie” or other demeaning name Requiring pledges to do power point presentations on the meaningless topic such as Hazing.

Harassment Hazing Any activity which confuses, frustrates, or causes the probationary member undue stress through mental anguish and physical discomfort. –Examples Requiring ridiculous costumes or activities Requiring probationary members to perform personal services Verbal abuse Any form of questioning under pressure or in an uncomfortable position Etc.

Violent Hazing Anything which causes physical or emotional harm –Example Forced alcohol consumption Forced consumption of vile substances Sexual violation Assault Burning Forcing probationary members into life-threatening situations Etc.

Hazing Laws Across America

Virginia Hazing is unlawful Automatically a Class 1 Misdemeanor, unless injury constitutes felony Any victim has the right to civilly sue the person or persons guilty thereof, no exceptions. Upon proof of guilt, the hazer or hazing party shall be immediately expelled from their respective academic institutions and organization charters shall be revoked.

Massachusetts Persons found at guilt of hazing will receive a fine not to exceed $1000, or a term not to exceed one year in a correctional facility (or both). When a collegiate organization is found guilty of hazing, the college or university can no longer recognize said organization for any reason.

Texas Any hazer, or person who fails to report said hazer will receive a fine between $500-$1000, and a jail sentence between 90 and 180 days. Any other hazing offense which culminates in the death of another is punishable by a fine between $5000-$10000 and a jail sentence not to exceed 2 years.

States without Hazing Laws Alaska Hawaii Michigan Montana New Mexico South Dakota Wyoming

Alternatives Because Hazing Sucks

Foster Unity Work together on a community service project Work together to improve chapter room Work together to plan a social or sporting event

Instill a sense of membership Plan events for the whole chapter to meet for a specific event –Concert –Movie –Meals –Study Session –Church service…

Promote the Future Take advantage of University tutoring services Designate study hours Invite speakers on test taking, study habits, etc. Use college resources for seminars on writing resumes, time management, etc.

IN CONCLUSION Hazing is unnecessary, unhealthy, and destructive to any persons or organizations who practice hazing rituals.

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