Every student deserves to feel safe, respected and included at Carolina. National Hazing Week is an opportunity to understand what hazing is, why it matters and where to turn for support if you experience or witness it. National Hazing Prevention Week is recognized each year during the last full week of September to raise awareness, promote prevention and highlight available resources. Attend the National Hazing Prevention Week Resource Fair to connect with campus resources, learn about reporting options and explore ways to help build a safer Carolina community.
What is hazing?
UNC-Chapel Hill defines hazing as conduct or activities that coerce or subject another person, with or without their consent, to the risk of physical injury, psychological distress, humiliation, abuse, sexual acts or other highly offensive indignities in connection with joining, maintaining membership in or participating in a group or organization.
What does hazing look like?
Hazing can take many forms. Examples include:
- Forced alcohol consumption
- Sleep deprivation
- Forced physical exertion
- Public humiliation or degrading activities
- Verbal abuse
- Forced silence or isolation
- Coerced participation in illegal or dangerous behavior
- Forced or coerced sexual acts
Even when something is described as a “tradition,” or “bonding experience” or “just a joke,” it may still be hazing if it places someone at risk or creates harm. Carolina prohibits hazing in all forms.
What should you do if you experience or witness hazing?
If you experience or witness hazing, there are options to report it. Report hazing concerns through Student Conduct’s online reporting form or to local law enforcement. In certain circumstances, Student Conduct may grant hazing immunity to students who voluntarily report incidents. Students can also seek support through campus resources including:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for confidential counseling and referrals
- Violence Prevention and Advocacy Services (VPAS) for confidential support, prevention education and bystander intervention and training
- University Ombuds Office for confidential guidance and discussion of options
- Safe at UNC for information about reporting options and support resources
- UNC Health Campus Care at Carolina for medical care and health-related support services
It Takes All Heels to build a community where belonging never comes at the expense of safety or well-being. While National Hazing Prevention Week brings additional awareness, creating a safe and accountable Carolina community is a year-round effort. If you experience or witness hazing, know that resources and support are available.