WHAT IS HAZING

The definition of hazing goes well beyond a list of “forbidden” activities. It’s important to understand that an organizational culture that includes hazing is one that is counterproductive to the purpose and success of that organization.

Most hazing is an attempt to “unify” new members, and it actually does that. But it unifies out of fear or a common bond of “enduring” together.

Treating individuals without respect for human dignity is simply wrong. It also shows a lack of creativity in planning activities that could accomplish the same thing as hazing. It’s about power and control rather than mutual respect, shared interests, and helpfulness. It is most certainly NOT about real friendship.

When considering a list of activities that are considered hazing, it’s important to note that just because an activity may not be on the list does not mean it is not hazing. Often it’s the nature of the activity (the way it is carried out) that makes the difference.

  1. Would you let the Michigan Daily, the Ann Arbor News, or New York Times reporter see and report what you are doing?
  2. Would you tell prospective members what they will go through?
  3. Would all the parents and family members of your organization be welcome during the activity?
  4. Would you allow the President of University, the Dean of Students, Director of Greek Life, or your coach to be present at this event?
  5. Would you allow interested members of the Ann Arbor Police Department to witness your event?

If you hesitate on any of the above questions, then its 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!

Remember that there is no such thing as a secret in the student community. It’s usually only a matter of time before what your group is doing gets out!

And, personal ethics should call for treating others with concern and respect.

Also, we should not want to write, say, or do anything that we would not want video-taped, and shown on the evening news.