Discipline of fraternities justifiedCan you see the Sigma Chis having to paint their house pink and hang a banner out front that said "We Hazed Our Pledges and We're Sorry" or "Party 'til you Puke is Not for Us."
Purdue University's discipline of a second fraternity this month sends a message: Hazing will not be tolerated.
Last week, Purdue suspended Delta Chi because of allegations of hazing. According to Purdue officials, pledges were required to participate in a game of tag that led to pushing and damage to the house.
On March 6, Purdue suspended Sigma Phi Epsilon. In November, a pledge at Sigma Phi Epsilon was taken to the emergency room because of excessive alcohol consumption. His blood alcohol level was reported to be 0.49 percent, more than six times the 0.08 blood-alcohol limit to drive.
Suspension of a fraternity means a cutoff of university funds and the use of university buildings, among other measures.
Hazing should no longer be viewed as a humiliating rite of passage, and Purdue should continue its enforcement against hazing.
The university has good reason. Hazing often is not harmless as the emergency room visit proves.
Purdue's suspension of Delta Chi is justified, since this is the second time the fraternity has been disciplined since 2005. Last April, the fraternity was put on probation when its members reported they had been insulted, deprived of sleep and suffered pranks.
A few incidences should not taint all Greek organizations, which can be beneficial to students. Fraternities and sororities have contributed to various community service projects in this area.
But if Greek organizations wish for good reputations, it is the members' responsibility to make sure their pledges are treated well. Otherwise, they can and should expect to see more disciplinary measures.
Journal and Courier Online - Editorial
