Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common questions about hazing, the law, and how to report a concern.
What is hazing?
Hazing is when a person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes, coerces, or forces another individual to engage in or endure certain actions for the purpose of pre-initiation activities, pledging, initiating, holding office, admitting, or affiliating into or with an organization, or for the purpose of continuing, reinstating, or enhancing an individual's membership or status in an organization. For a fuller description, visit the What Is Hazing page.
Is hazing illegal?
Yes. Hazing is considered a crime.
Can I get sued for hazing?
Yes. In addition to criminal penalties and University sanctions, an individual who engages in hazing could be sued and forced to pay significant monetary damages (along with attorney's fees) as part of a civil suit. These suits have resulted in judgements totaling millions of dollars.
Isn't hazing ok if no one gets hurt?
No. Any form of hazing, regardless of the outcome, is a crime in Louisiana and a violation of University policy. It does not become ok, legal, or permissible if no harm is intended or occurs. Verbal and emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse.
Have people died from hazing?
Sadly, yes. There are deaths attributable to hazing at other schools every year. In each of those situations, the individuals who engaged in the hazing probably thought what they were doing was harmless and would not result in someone's death.
My group has always hazed new members. Isn't it a tradition?
No. "Tradition" does not justify committing a crime or violating University policy. Traditions are created by groups, and groups hold the power to change or eliminate them. It only takes one year to break a hazing tradition. Remember that the founding members of organizations were not hazed.
Our new members voluntarily participate, so that can't be hazing, right?
Wrong. Under Louisiana state law and GSU policy, the fact that a person consented to a hazing activity is not a defense. The peer pressure and desire to belong in a student organization can create a coercive environment where true consent cannot be given. In short, an individual cannot consent to being hazed.
Doesn't hazing teach respect and make better members?
No. Respect is earned, not demanded or taught. When respect is earned, there is also trust. Hazing only motivates people out of fear and anxiety.
Doesn't hazing help build a bond among new members?
No. Hazing isolates each member from the established group. It does not promote organizational unity. There are safer and more productive ways to build friendships and community.
Do I have a duty to report hazing?
Yes. All members of the campus community have an obligation to promptly report any good-faith concerns about hazing that has occurred or will occur.
If I know about hazing but don't promptly report it, what happens to me?
If you are a student, you may be subject to charges and sanctions under the Code of Student Conduct. Employees may be subject to discipline.
How do I report concerns about hazing?
If the situation is an emergency and you or someone else needs immediate assistance, call 911 or contact GSUPD at 318-274-2222. For non-emergency situations, see our reporting options. Any report should include as much detail as possible (who, where, when, and what happened).
Still have a concern?
You don't have to be certain. If something feels wrong, report it and we will take it from there.