Now that we have defined hazing and learned the facts, its time to discuss the prevention. Hazing is a problem that can quickly and devastatingly ruin a chapter or organization. As Greeks, it is our responsibility to keep the legacy of Greek life alive and well! So how do we do this?

Obviously, the first step would be to not participate in hazing of any kind yourself. Do not haze others and do not let others haze you. But that is pretty simple, right? What may not be so simple, is standing up to others when you know something is wrong. In our hazing facts yesterday, we pointed out that 95% of hazing victims do not report their experience. How staggering is that?! Equally as shocking- over 50% of the acts are posted online through pictures. This tells us that people KNOW this is happening. Hazing isn’t a secret. So why does no one say anything?

Remember that old saying that hung in your grade school classrooms: “What is popular isn’t always right, and what’s right isn’t always popular!” Well guess what? Its still true! Understandably, the most common reason for not report hazing is the backlash a student or faculty member. No one wants to put themselves in a position of being the “tattle-tail.” But what are the consequences? Are others getting hurt (or worse!) because no one will say anything? Its true that standing up to your peers is quite possibly one of the most difficult things you can do- but what if someone’s life hangs in the balance? You never know what could go wrong; freak accidents happen ALL the time! So don’t be a bystander. Don’t sit back and watch injustice happen- do something about it! Chances are, you won’t be the only one who knows its wrong. Maybe your courage will inspire others to take a stand as well. And maybe, you will save someone’s life in the process.

To report hazing, contact your university administration or the National Anti-Hazing Hotline at 1-800-NOT-HAZE!