On Day 3 of National Hazing Prevention Week, we share a thought from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.:

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."

It takes courage to take a stand against hazing and provide alternatives to years of what some in the chapter may consider 'tradition'. To help, we offer some quick questions to ask about some of the activities that may be proposed for your new member education proces:

What is hazing?

Hazing is any action taken or situation created intentionally:

• that causes embarrassment, harassment or ridicule
  
• risks emotional and/or physical harm
  
• to members of an group or team
  
• whether new or not
  
• regardless of the person's willingness to participate
  

Still confused? Ask yourself these questions:

• Would I feel comfortable participating in this activity if my parents were watching?
  
• Would we get in trouble if the Dean of Students walked by?
  
• Am I being asked to keep these activities a secret?
  
• Am I doing anything illegal?
  
• Does participation violate my values or those of my organization?
  
• Is it causing emotional distress or stress of any kind to myself or others?
  
• If someone were injured, would I feel comfortable being investigated by the insurance carrier?
  
• When I apply for jobs, can I take the onus of having a criminal arrest on my record?
  

What Can I Do?

Here are resources to help enhance your New Member Education Program and alternatives to hazing practices:

100 Ways to Create Good Members Without Hazing

101 Non-Hazing New Member Activities

Tips to Avoid Hazing

The International Headquarters staff and volunteers are ready, willing and able to assist with the development of your chapter's new member education program.

Contact your LEC, or you can also reach out to Sr. Director for Collegiate Services Ray Vanlanot (ray@theatchi.org), Director of Standards Jason Handberg (jhandberg@thetachi.org) or any other International Headquarters staff member at 317-824-1881 or at ihq@thetachi.org.

For additional resources, visit http://www.hazingprevention.org