Although questions of hazing surfaced after a fraternity painted an offensive image on the graffiti wall, members of the Greek community say hazing is not part of their organizations.
The drawing on the graffiti wall was not an act of hazing
but it was a poor choice by individuals on our campus who just happen to be members of the Greek community said Walter Williamson, president of the Interfraternity Council, adding that the members responsible were new members in Theta Chi.
The image, painted by Theta Chi, depicted a woman with no arms and her legs spread.
Nicholas Gatz, president of the Alpha Tau chapter of Theta Chi, declared a formal apology to the OU community, stating that the image was both offensive and crude.
This action is not indicative of the ideals and traditions of Theta Chi. This was an unfortunate case of a few immature guys making a bad judgment Gatz said.
According to University Judiciaries, there was only one documented incident of hazing for the 2005-06 year and none so far this year.According to the Ohio University anti-hazing policy, hazing is any action or activity that does not contribute to the positive development of a person who inflicts or intends to cause mental or bodily harm or anxieties; or which may demean, degrade, or disgrace any person.-
Sojka said.
Although it might be hearsay
Williamson said that hazing does exist on OU's campus, but it does not just occur within the Greek community.
Hazing can in fact occur in any team
club
or organization. I feel that since the Greek community is reflected in the media as being a group that hazes
this is where peoples thoughts and ideas reflect back to
Williamson said.
Sojka and Williamson agree that the Women's PanHellenic Association and the Interfraternity Council do not tolerate hazing and it is, in fact, written in their bylaws.
The only way to decrease hazing is to educate students and give them prevention strategies. We should educate students in terms of what we expect from the leadership within our community at an individual level as well as at an organizational level
Williamson said.
