Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity

Policy on Hazing

Approved by Board of Directors Vote on

June 22, 2004

The policy of Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity is that no member or chapter shall engage in any form of hazing under any circumstance. Such behavior shall constitute “serious unworthy conduct” subject to member and/or chapter discipline as outlined in Article XI, Sections I, 2, and 3 of The Bylaws of Delta Omicron International Music Fraternity. This policy shall apply to both collegiate and alumni membership.

The Prospective Member Training Period should foster the Fraternity’s commitment to professionalism. During this time, prospective members should be guided not only to learn about the Fraternity but also to develop behavior conducive to working effectively and cooperatively with others in the world of professional music. Such behavior is fostered best through the professional attitude and behavior modeled by the chapter membership. Training should try to maintain the prospective member’s enthusiasm while guiding him or her toward membership. Training should occur in an inclusive, not restrictive atmosphere and stress the prospective member’s value to the chapter. Hazing has no place in such training.

Hazing is defined as, but not limited to, any actions or created situations that involve public or private harassment, personal endangerment, bodily discomfort or injury of others or destruction of property or that might discredit the professional reputation of the Fraternity. Inviting, requiring, expecting, or forcing prospective or initiated members to participate in these actions or situations shall constitute hazing. Consent by a member or prospective member shall NOT be a defense against any hazing action.

This definition of hazing as observed by the Fraternity shall include, but is not limited to, such specific activities as:

1. Forced consumption of food or beverage.

2. Drinking alcohol.

3. Using any drug, narcotic, or controlled substance.

4. Blind-folding.

5. Branding or tattooing.

6. Any physical restraint.

7. Sleep deprivation.

8. Physical abuse.

9. Verbal abuse of a ridiculing, demeaning, or degrading nature.

10. Forced physical exercise.

11. Any activity that is in violation of the law or code of conduct of the host institution.

Members and chapters should reflect on the following questions before engaging in any activity if hazing is suspected:

· Could you participate in such an activity without feeling degraded or endangered?

· Would you be willing to ask your chapter adviser or university administrator to observe the activity?

· Could you explain the value of the activity to your parents or a prospective member’s parents?

· Could you defend the merit of the activity in a court of law?

If the answer is “no” to any one of the above, the activity is hazing.

Taking part in hazing is a criminal offense in most states. It is a serious issue potentially impacting the financial resources of individuals involved, the future of the chapter, and the reputation and the welfare of the Fraternity.

This policy shall be shared with the chapter membership and prospective members at the beginning of each training period.

Hazing should be reported to the International President immediately. Then a signed letter reporting the incident must be filed as required by Article XI of The Bylaws. The incident will be investigated by the International President and submitted to the Board of Directors for vote of appropriate discipline as outlined in Article XI of The Bylaws.