To: The Illinois State House
Stop Hazing
Hazing is a problem that the world needs to be aware of; stop hazing.
Why is this important?
“Hazing” refers to any activity expected of someone joining a group (or to maintain full status in a group) that humiliates, degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm, regardless of the person's willingness to participate. In years past, hazing practices were typically considered harmless pranks or comical antics associated with young men in college fraternities.
Today we know that hazing extends far beyond college fraternities and is experienced by boys/men and girls/women in school groups, university organizations, athletic teams, the military, and other social and professional organizations. Hazing is a complex social problem that is shaped by power dynamics operating in a group and/or organization and within a particular cultural context.
Every day millions of people are exposed to the cruel and unusual punishment that is hazing. Children, teens, and young adults are beaten, raped, and even killed in an effort to fit in to clubs, sports, and organizations. But many authority figures turn a blind eye to this problem and dismiss it as harmless fun when it is causing so much pain to our nations youth. It is time that this crime be known, and people be made aware of the cruelty that is hazing.
Today we know that hazing extends far beyond college fraternities and is experienced by boys/men and girls/women in school groups, university organizations, athletic teams, the military, and other social and professional organizations. Hazing is a complex social problem that is shaped by power dynamics operating in a group and/or organization and within a particular cultural context.
Every day millions of people are exposed to the cruel and unusual punishment that is hazing. Children, teens, and young adults are beaten, raped, and even killed in an effort to fit in to clubs, sports, and organizations. But many authority figures turn a blind eye to this problem and dismiss it as harmless fun when it is causing so much pain to our nations youth. It is time that this crime be known, and people be made aware of the cruelty that is hazing.