The University of Maryland recently suspended all fraternity recruitment and drinking events following disturbing hazing allegations reported to U-Md. officials. The allegations included incidents of students being forced to consume urine, being locked in basements, and being physically assaulted during initiation rituals. The university lifted the blanket ban on Greek-life activities on Friday, although five fraternities remain under investigation and face restrictions.
According to court documents, the hazing incidents involved various acts of physical and emotional abuse, including public humiliation, physical assaults, and forced consumption of non-food items like urine and a live fish. An anonymous student reported being abused for five hours during a “line up” event, where recruits were subjected to intense physical and mental challenges.
The university’s decision to suspend all Greek-life activities was challenged in a lawsuit by four fraternities, who claimed their constitutional rights were being violated. They argued that the ban was too broad and should have targeted specific individuals and chapters accused of hazing.
University administrators have not disclosed the names of the fraternities involved in the hazing incidents, citing confidentiality. However, preliminary findings from outside investigators hired by the university indicated that Kappa Alpha Order was among the five fraternities suspected of hazing.
The university defended its actions based on the severity and frequency of the reports received, stating that the ban was necessary to address broader issues within the Greek-life community. The ongoing investigation and legal battle continue to raise concerns about the prevalence of hazing on college campuses and the need for stronger measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Source
Photo credit www.washingtonpost.com