At the beginning of the semester, you might hear about what is called "Rush Week". At WestConn, it is usually the second and third week of the semester. This is a time for recruitment. During rush, Fraternities and Sororities hold events and activities which are designed to let members and potential members learn more about each other and the organization. At the end of rush, we (Sigma Chi) give out "bids". "Bids" are an invitation to "Pledge" Sigma Chi. Our chapter has an eight week pledge program. After pledgeship and all of its requirements are completed, a Pledge can be granted full membership into Sigma Chi.

Do You Haze?

"Hazing is an often ritualistic test and a task, which may constitute harassment, abuse or humiliation with requirements to perform random, often meaningless tasks, sometimes as a way of initiation into a social group. The definition can refer to either physical (sometimes violent) or mental (possibly degrading) practices; it may also include an 'erotic' element (notably nudity)." - source - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazing

The short answer to the question "Do you haze?" is "No." A longer answer is "No. Absolutely not. It goes against everything we stand for. We couldn't exist if we practiced hazing." However, no answer, no matter how sincere and assertive, will convince everyone that we are true to our word. Afterall, everyone denies that they haze, but they can't all be telling the truth, can they? The numerous injuries and deaths caused by some groups are proof of this. The only real answer to that question is to start a discussion about what hazing is and our precise reasons for why we don't engage in it, and what we do to prevent it.