All hazing debates can be settled by asking two simple questions:
How do you earn your badge and when do you earn your badge?
Membership is earned through vigilance and dedication to the founding principles (i.e. your behavior), not by demonstrating subservience to the older members. If the activity has no clear connection to Sigma Nu’s purpose then it’s time to find an alternative.
Similarly, membership in Sigma Nu is not earned one time during the pledge process; membership is earned every day–during the new member process and beyond–by remaining committed to the voluntary oath each member accepted during initiation.
By perpetuating the myth that membership is earned one time during the pledge process by performing arbitrary tasks, hazers are creating a culture of apathy and mutual disrespect–everything Sigma Nu is not. Earn your badge every day by remaining dedicated to your Knightly vows. Period.
Serve in the Light of Truth 