Anti-hazing bill in honor of Caleb Wilson filed ahead of the legislative session

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The Louisiana legislature begins its regular session on Monday, and one proposed bill aims to toughen the laws regarding hazing. It comes on the heels of the tragic hazing death of Southern University student Caleb Wilson.

“The community needs to know that we want to educate our children, not only the ones that are being hazed, so that they understand that they don’t have to be hazing, all of that, to join the group. Initiation does not involve hazing,” said Louisiana State Representative Delisha Boyd.

Tulane University has also opened an investigation into alleged hazing by two fraternities.

In a statement, university leaders say:

“The health, safety, and well-being of students is our highest priority, and we have robust training and resources dedicated to preventing hazing in all forms. As part of that commitment, the university has placed the Delta Tau Delta and Phi Kappa Sigma chapters on interim suspension pending the outcome of investigations into alleged hazing. We take these matters seriously and will continue to uphold our community standards as the investigative process moves forward.”

The new bill authored by Boyd would require all college students in Louisiana to complete a one-hour anti-hazing education course if they wish to join a fraternity or sorority.

“We don’t support this. And it’s time that we move away from these historic traditions where we don’t support this. And it’s time that we move away from these historic traditions where I would say ‘let me haze the next person too,’ we’re better than that,” said Boyd.

Political expert Dr. Silas Lee is confident that the bill will pass.

“It’s very difficult, if not impossible, to be against any type of legislation to ensure the safety of students who are pledging a fraternity and sorority. We want to ensure that safety and protect overall safety and well-being of citizens in general. That’s why you see an interest in advancing such legislation,” said Lee.

Representative Boyd says she hopes that anti-hazing classes will be required for more than just freshmen.

“It’s beyond just the freshmen. We also … require this class of upperclassmen. So already in these organizations, they’ll have two semesters to get this bill, and get this class under their belt. But we want it mandatory for everyone,” said Boyd.

The Louisiana State Legislature is scheduled to convene on April 14 and adjourn on June 12.

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