Hazing is a ritual as old as time. It happens in virtually every area of social interaction among humans — between coworkers, teammates, even lawmakers. But in recent years, the darker, sometimes deadly side of hazing has become more evident. The very phrase ignites anger and revives unpleasant memories in the minds of millions.
Hazing is also a reality in the higher education world, especially in athletics, as well as in fraternity and sorority life. Though not exclusive to it, the community of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) has seen its share of these scandals in recent years. The most notorious example is the extreme hazing that ultimately led to the death of Florida A&M band member Robert Champion in November 2011.
On January 23, five North Carolina HBCUs — Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina A&T, North Carolina Central University and Winston-Salem State University — joined together in an effort to increase hazing awareness and attempt to combat it. The summit, entitled “Hazing Hurts” was held concurrently via video conference on each campus.
The 90-minute summit consisted of panels infused with both students and administrators. Serving as moderator for the FSU forum was Dr. Jason DeSousa, assistant vice chancellor for student retention at Fayetteville State. DeSousa is also co-author of a report titled Hazing and Pledging in African American Fraternities and Sororities.
Panelists and audience members engaged in a lively and spirited dialog. The conversation ranged from consequences of hazing to alternatives. The biggest debate was over exactly what constituted hazing.
Fayetteville State faculty member Cherelle Harris stated she was hazed by having to pick up an elderly member of her sorority and take her shopping. Many students in the audience seemed taken back by that assertion, including North Carolina Central senior Jaron Allen.
The political science major from Louisburg, N.C. is a member of Omega Psi Phi Inc. and vice president of NCCU’s National Pan-Hellenic Council.
