5 Basic Questions to Ask to determine if it's Hazing:
Would you let a student newspaper reporter see and report what you are doing
Would you tell prospective members what they will go through?
Would you tell the parents of your members what you are doing?
Would you let greek affairs know what you are doing?
Would you let the Executive Offices know what you are doing?
Still need help figuring out if it's hazing or not? Ask yourself the following questions:
Is the activity an educational experience?
Does this activity promote and conform to the ideals and values of the Fraternity?
Does the activity involve any physical or emotional abuse?
Is there any risk of injury?
Is alcohol involved?
Will this activity increase the new members' respect for the Fraternity and the members of the chapter?
How does this activity specifically help the new member become a better brother or sister?
Is it an activity that new members and initiated members participate in together?
Would you allow the activity to be filmed?
Would you be willing to allow parents to witness this activity? A judge? The university president? Your National President?
Does the activity have value in and of itself?
Would you be able to defend the activity in a court of law?
Does the activity meet both the spirit and letter of standards prohibiting hazing?
If you hesitate on any of the above questions, then it’s hazing!
You should be proud of all the activities you ask your new members to do. Therefore, you should not hesitate to let everyone know. If you hesitate, that is telling you something!
When in doubt – take into consideration the following issues:
Consumption of alcohol – Not only does this always increases risk, it impairs the judgment of everyone involved.
Health or safety dangers.
Fatigue/Denial of study time or rest – We advertise that Greek organizations place academics first, but denying members appropriate study time or rest contradicts that.
Verbal abuse – Who likes to be yelled at?
Embarrassing, undignified, or humiliating – Who likes to be humiliated?
Personal servitude – The principles of most fraternities and sororities suggest that ALL members are servants to one another, as well as to the organization, not just new members, associates or pledges!
If any of your activities involve any of the above issues: it is HAZING!