by José Castaneda (Tau, Fall ’95)
As the current National Vice President and practicing attorney, I want to reinforce awareness of the strict liability hazing statutes in effect. Recently, tragic incidents of hazing across the country have put a spotlight on hazing.
New York Times: “At a Campus Scarred by Hazing, Cries for Help”
CNN.com: “Tennessee Fraternity Suspended After Alcohol Enemas”
Rolling Stone: “Inside Dartmouth’s Hazing Abuses”
Geogia State Signal: ”Do Away with All Proof”
1) Hazing injuries have apparently prompted legislatures to pass stricter laws which further criminalize hazing.
2) Lawsuits against fraternities, sororities, schools, and governmental units are on the rise.
3) A person charged with hazing may not assert a defense based upon the argument that the participants knew that physical discipline would be part of initiation proceedings and that they consented to be physically disciplined.
4) Intentionally or recklessly engaging in conduct which creates a substantial risk of physical injury to other persons is not allowed by Lambda Theta Phi!
Brothers, focus on the core values of our fraternity. Make sure you plan a safe and effective induction experience that will foster a deep rooted bond of brotherhood. The bond of brotherhood is the common thread that ties us together “til’ the day we die!”
It can no longer be acceptable to allow hazing of any kind in the induction of new members. Wouldn’t you agree? +