Phi Beta Sigma prohibits hazing. As a national organization we define hazing in the most inclusive terms. All institutions of higher learning have similar restrictions.
Fraternities as a condition of recognition agree to abide by the institution policies and anti-hazing regulations. Potential members of Phi Beta Sigma are required to sign non hazing declarations. Therefore there can be no consent by the potential victim to be hazed.

WHAT HAZING LOOKS LIKE

DEFINITION
Hazing is any action taken or any situation created intentionally that causes embarrassment, harassment or ridicule and risks emotional and/or physical harm to members of a group or team, whether new or not, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.

Some definitions of hazing vary but all have common factors:

  • Power differential between those in a group and those who want to join a group, or between senior and junior members of a group
  • Intentional initiation rite, practice or ‘tradition’ involved
  • Willingness to participate does not absolve responsibility for either party

EXAMPLES OF HAZING

Below are just some examples of hazing practices that occur:
  • Forced activities for new recruits to ‘prove’ their worth to join
  • Forced or required consumption of alcohol
  • Requirement to eat spicy foods, other substances
  •  Requirement to endure hardships such as staying awake, menial tasks, physical labor, running while blindfolded, etc.
  •  Humiliation of new or potential members
  •  Isolation of new or potential members
  •  Beatings, paddling, or other physical acts against new or potential members
  •  Requirements for new or potential members to do things established members are not required to do
  •  Illegal activities such as requirement to steal local items as part of a scavenger hunt

No chapter, colony, student or alumnus shall conduct nor condone hazing activities.
In addition, members have a duty to report hazing. If you or anyone you know is aware or experienced any hazing, please report it to the local chapter and appropriate authorities.

Members and applicants for membership shall be required to immediately notify the national office of the Fraternity or Sorority, the local chapter advisor, university officials and law enforcement officials of any observed hazing incident or improper activity believed to be in violation of the policy against hazing, without fear of reprisal and their application for membership will not be affected by so doing; and, indeed, failure to report known violations may disqualify a candidate for membership.

NPHC organizations continue to encourage their members to participate in activities which promote high scholastic achievement, sisterhood, brotherhood, loyalty and leadership; and shall continue to affirm sound values and the worth of every member working together to accomplish organizational goals and serve the community.

Hazing is NOT the make of a Sigma Man.