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Hazing Statement

Being a member of an organization at the University of Michigan-Dearborn is a great experience for students and should be an experience which enriches a student's life.

Involvement in an organization should provide positive academic, leadership and character development, as well as foster a sense of community amongst students. Under no circumstances is hazing tolerated by any organization.

Definition of Hazing

Hazing is defined as any action or situation, with or without consent of the participants, which recklessly, intentionally, or unintentionally endangers the mental, physical, academic, health or safety of a student. This includes, but is not limited to any situation which:

  • Creates a risk of injury to any individual or group
  • Causes discomfort to any individual or group
  • Causes embarrassment to any individual or group
  • Involves harassment of any individual or group
  • Involves degradation of any individual or group
  • Involves humiliation of an individual or group
  • Involves ridicule of an individual or group
  • Involves or includes the willful destruction and/or removal of public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in any organization.

(As defined by the University of Michigan Hazing Task Force, 2004)

To determine if an act is hazing, simply ask the following questions......

  1. Would you let the Michigan Journal, the Detroit Free Press, or New York Times reporter see and report what you are doing?
  2. Would you tell prospective members what they will go through?
  3. Would all the parents and family members of your organization be welcome during the activity?
  4. Would you allow the Chancellor, the Dean of Students, Director of the Office of Student Life, or your coach to be present at this event?
  5. Would you allow interested members of the Dearborn Police Department to witness your event?

For more information:

If you have any concerns about hazing at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, please contact the Office of Student Life at 313-593-5390 or visit 2136 James C. Renick University Center.

Policy owned by: Office of Student Life

Last reviewed: 5/2023

To be reviewed: 5/2025