In response to the article “Burning Rights” in Friday’s (Jan. 5) Lantern, I would like to make it clear that The Ohio State University does not condone or support branding as a part of sorority or fraternity life. Whether members or prospective members are coerced or encouraged by others to take part or willingly take part on their own, branding as condition of gaining or continuing membership in a fraternity is considered hazing.
Hazing is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct and the laws of the state of Ohio. The university has a strong anti-hazing policy, which is supported by the Ohio State Greek community. The policy can be found on the OSU Greek Life webpage: ohiounion.osu.edu/greek_life.
We acknowledge the right of students to participate in branding, tattooing, piercing, etc. as individual citizens. However, we will not tolerate the use of such practices as conditions of membership in fraternities, sororities, or any other registered student organization.
OSU promotes membership in any of the 60 recognized social fraternities and sororities on our campus because these organizations provide members with a holistic developmental experience, in which hazing should have no part. We will investigate any reports of hazing, by branding or other means, and hold those organizations and individuals found to be involved responsible under the Code of Student Conduct and state law.
Kurtis ForiskaSr. Coordinator of Greek Life
