SUNY Cortland has made it a priority to let student groups and organizations, as well as Greek life, understand that hazing has never and will never be tolerated. Hazing’s dictionary definition is, “the imposition of strenuous, often humiliating, tasks as part of a program of rigorous physical training and initiating.” Hazing prevention week started on the 19th through the 23rd of September. To be proactive, the school has sent out many emails. Stating the repercussions one can face as well as alternatives that organizations can do instead of putting their peers lives in danger.
An email from Sandra Wohlleber, associate director of campus activities and Greek affairs, states, “Hazing does not build character. Hazing does not build unity. Hazing is an assertion of dominance over someone else,” with that being said, I decided to interview some students here on campus to see what their thoughts were.
I first talked to Faith Calabrese, a sophomore and early childhood education major, who states that “I know it happens even though it is harmful. I believe it is more damaging to their mental health.” This proves that is not just grueling physically, but also mentally. The psychological aspects of wanting to do anything to ‘fit in’ or have the bragging rights after the fact can push one to try and complete the most dangerous things. This perfectly encapsulates why it is important to raise awareness.
Arianna Francis, a junior as well as a member of a sorority here on campus states, “It is absolutely disgusting to hear of the unethical practices among organizations across the country. The basis of Greek life is trust, brother/sisterhood and service, not hazing. It is important to educate yourself on these events to become self aware and safe.” Francis brings up a good point here stating that the true meaning of Greek life is to build relationships and establish a sense of family. It should never boil down to demeaning others or making them feel weak in order to a part of a group or organization.
I was lucky enough to speak with Courtney Cincebox, another person part of Greek life here at Cortland. Cincebox reports to me that, “[She] has heard of it happening at other universities where it has led to major injuries and even death. Hazing is important to be aware of to make sure everyone is staying safe,” for she is able to understand not only people’s mental health is at stake but also physical.
Hazing is never something to joke around about or be naive to believe that it no longer happens. There are cases from not too far away from Cortland of hazing instances that ended fatally to young kids at colleges. SUNY Cortland has worked their hardest to ensure it will not be added to that list and that the students here remain secure and healthy.