Division of Student Affairs

Hazing has been used as a rite of passage and/or initiation for many years. Even though it is a violation of Campus Regulations and California Criminal Statutes, it is widely used by fraternities, sororities, athletic teams/clubs, and to a lesser extent other campus organizations. By definition, hazing is a process that involves persecution and harassment with meaningless, difficult, dangerous, or humiliating tasks. At times, the student who is joining a campus-affiliated organization does not know that hazing is part of the initiation process until it actually occurs. Many of these students choose to keep the secret so they may remain in the organization or because of a fear of retaliation. Many students are not aware that hazing is illegal and that they are the victim of a crime.

When you are aware that a student is the victim of a hazing incident:

DO

1. When possible, see the student in private.
2. Be aware the student may be vulnerable and experiencing a wide range of emotions.
3. Encourage the student to contact the Office of Judicial Affairs.
4. When appropriate, encourage the student to contact Greek Affairs in the Office of Student Life.
5. Advise the student to report the crime to Campus Police.
6. When appropriate, refer the student to Counseling & Psychological Services.

DON’T

1. Blame the student.
2. Minimize the hazing incident.
3. Agree to be bound by confidentiality.