Eta Rho Sigma Sorority, Incorporated (ΗΡΣ) takes a strong stance against hazing and is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all members. Our anti-hazing policy is designed to protect the well-being and dignity of every individual within our sisterhood. We emphasize the following points:
- Zero Tolerance: ΗΡΣ has a zero-tolerance hazing policy, which is strictly enforced. The policy is incorporated into various ΗΡΣ documents, including the Constitution and ByLaws, Code of Conduct, Administrative Procedures Manual for Membership Intake, and the "no hazing" contract that members are required to sign.
- Prohibition of Hazing: Our policy unequivocally prohibits all forms of hazing, whether physical, mental, or emotional, throughout the entire Membership Intake Process. This includes activities such as paddling, beating, slapping, blindfolding, pushing, sleep deprivation, physical assault, forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, and any other morally degrading, illegal, or indecent actions.
- Reporting Obligation: Any member who participates in hazing, is aware of hazing, or receives allegations of hazing must promptly report it. Failure to report hazing will result in appropriate sanctions. Similarly, applicants/prospective members who consent to or participate in hazing, or fail to report it, will be barred from membership in ΗΡΣ.
- Reporting Process: Reports of hazing should be made in the following order: chapter president, chapter advisors, Regional Director and Regional Representative, National First Vice President, and the Executive Director of ΗΡΣ. Reports should be sufficiently detailed to enable swift and appropriate action. If a positive response is not received, the reporting should be escalated to the next level, including contacting the National First Vice President and/or the The Membership Maven directly.
- Exclusive National Policy: ΗΡΣ has not approved any practices inconsistent with our anti-hazing policy. No one participating in Membership Intake or who has been initiated is required to submit to hazing, including any "chapter traditions" or "chapter practices" that are not authorized by ΗΡΣ.
- Disclaimers and Penalties: ΗΡΣ disclaims responsibility or liability for any unauthorized acts performed in its name. Penalties for hazing include sanctions imposed on members and chapters, ranging from suspension, revocation of chapter charter, and denial of membership intake. Monetary fines may also be imposed. Applicants/prospective members involved in hazing will be denied membership.
- Legal Consequences: Hazing is a crime in many jurisdictions, and ΗΡΣ will report acts of hazing to law enforcement officials. ΗΡΣdoes not defend members charged with hazing.
Please note that this is a summary of ΗΡΣ's anti-hazing policy. For more detailed information, please contact ΗΡΣ's Director of Membership.
Eta Rho Sigma Sorority, Incorporated remains dedicated to fostering a culture of respect, sisterhood, and personal growth, free from any form of hazing. We strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity and character, ensuring that every member feels valued and supported throughout their journey within our esteemed sisterhood.