Policy on Hazing:
No chapter, petitioning group, student member, membership candidate or alumnus of Kappa Kappa Psi shall conduct nor condone hazing activities. Permission or approval by a person being hazed is not a defense. The term “hazing” means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person, whether individually or in concert with other persons, against any individual or group of individuals, regardless of affiliation, whether or not committed on campus property, for the purpose of recruiting, joining, initiating, admitting, affiliating, or for the purpose of retaining membership in an organization that causes an individual or group of individuals to do any of the following, but not limited to the following regardless of a person’s willingness to participate:
1. Be coerced to violate federal, state, provincial, and/or local law or to violate campus and/or Kappa Kappa Psi policy.
2. Be coerced to consume any food, liquid, alcoholic liquid, drug, or other substance in any noncustomary manner which subjects the individual or group of individuals to a substantial risk of emotional or physical harm which includes but is not limited to sickness, vomiting, intoxication, or unconsciousness.
3. Endure brutality of a physical nature, including but not limited to whipping, beating, paddling, branding, dangerous physical activity, or exposure to elements or endure threats of such conduct that results in mental or physical harm.
4. Endure brutality of a mental nature, including but not limited to activity adversely affecting the mental health or dignity of the individual, sleep deprivation, mandatory wearing of pins, regalia or other clothing, exclusion from social contact, required communication on demand or in a specific manner, or conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment or endure threats of such conduct that results in mental or physical harm.
5. Endure any other activity which adversely affects the health and safety of an individual, including but not limited to the disruption of academic performance or class attendance, lineups, calisthenics, or personal, physical, or financial servitude.
1. Be coerced to violate federal, state, provincial, and/or local law or to violate campus and/or Kappa Kappa Psi policy.
2. Be coerced to consume any food, liquid, alcoholic liquid, drug, or other substance in any noncustomary manner which subjects the individual or group of individuals to a substantial risk of emotional or physical harm which includes but is not limited to sickness, vomiting, intoxication, or unconsciousness.
3. Endure brutality of a physical nature, including but not limited to whipping, beating, paddling, branding, dangerous physical activity, or exposure to elements or endure threats of such conduct that results in mental or physical harm.
4. Endure brutality of a mental nature, including but not limited to activity adversely affecting the mental health or dignity of the individual, sleep deprivation, mandatory wearing of pins, regalia or other clothing, exclusion from social contact, required communication on demand or in a specific manner, or conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment or endure threats of such conduct that results in mental or physical harm.
5. Endure any other activity which adversely affects the health and safety of an individual, including but not limited to the disruption of academic performance or class attendance, lineups, calisthenics, or personal, physical, or financial servitude.
Policy on Alcohol, Illegal Drugs and Controlled Substances:
In any activity or event sponsored or endorsed by a chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi, including those that occur on or off campus:
1. Kappa Kappa Psi members and guests must comply with all federal, state, provincial, and local laws. No person under the legal drinking age may possess, consume, provide, sell or be provided alcoholic beverages.
2. Kappa Kappa Psi members and guests must follow the federal law regarding illegal drugs and controlled substances. No person may possess, use, provide, distribute, sell, and/or manufacture illegal drugs or other controlled substances while at any activity or event sponsored or endorsed by Kappa Kappa Psi.
3. Alcoholic beverages must be provided and sold on a per-drink basis by a licensed and insured third-party vendor (e.g., restaurant, bar, caterer, etc.). BYOB (Bring your own beverage) and similar events are prohibited.
1. Kappa Kappa Psi members and guests must comply with all federal, state, provincial, and local laws. No person under the legal drinking age may possess, consume, provide, sell or be provided alcoholic beverages.
2. Kappa Kappa Psi members and guests must follow the federal law regarding illegal drugs and controlled substances. No person may possess, use, provide, distribute, sell, and/or manufacture illegal drugs or other controlled substances while at any activity or event sponsored or endorsed by Kappa Kappa Psi.
3. Alcoholic beverages must be provided and sold on a per-drink basis by a licensed and insured third-party vendor (e.g., restaurant, bar, caterer, etc.). BYOB (Bring your own beverage) and similar events are prohibited.
Policy Against Discrimination:
Kappa Kappa Psi expressly prohibits discrimination by any component part of the Fraternity or by any person acting on behalf of the organization on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, ability status, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation.
Policy on Membership Candidate Terminology:
At the 1991 National Conventions of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, the national Chapters decided to no longer recognize the word “pledge” or any form thereof as a term to refer to the prospective members of the Membership Education Program. The decision was made at the same time that the Membership Education Programs of the Fraternity and Sorority were revised to promote the positive education of all prospective members throughout the process. In doing so, information within the programs that had any negative connotation suggesting hazing was removed, including any references to the word “pledge.” It is therefore imperative to remove any references to the word “pledge” from all chapter documents, including Membership Education Programs, Constitutions, and any other handbooks on policies and procedures in order to fully comply with the current standards of the National Organizations.
Policy on Sexual Misconduct:
All members of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma must comply with all federal, state, provincial, and local laws and campus policies related to sexual misconduct. This includes, but is not limited to, definitions around consent, sexual violence, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual exploitation.
Stance on Branding/Scarification:
Branding/Scarification is the modification of the human body through burning, cutting or other types of abrasion to the human skin and other areas. Branding/Scarification has increased risk of infection, slow healing third degree burns, internal injury, unintended permanent disfiguring deformities, and other medical issues. It is seen as causing “physical harm and discomfort” or providing a “physical shock” as outlined in the hazing policy. The practice of Branding/Scarification or other forms of body modification that are associated with Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma in an unlicensed environment are “not consistent with academic or musical achievement; Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma law, ritual or policy; or the regulations and policies of the educational institution, band program, or applicable state law.” Consequently, those who engage in the act of branding/scarification or other forms of modification in relation to Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma could be found in violation of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma policy and are subject to action from the National Council. This includes forced or coerced body modification at licensed establishments.
Always remember that willingness to consent to behavior is not a defense for hazing.
Convention Attendance Policy:
As Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma have moved forward, both organizations have had to confront the realities of risk management. Among those realities is the need to make sure that everyone who takes part in the offerings of our active organizations must be sharing in the cost of insurance, and registering as a participant who follows our policies, just as our active members must do for their participation. From this point forward, for all six districts’ conventions and the National Convention, alumni attending conventions must have either a Life Membership or a current National Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association or National Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association membership.
Guidelines on Member Presentation Shows:
In order for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma to assist chapters with the membership process and to avoid potential problems, all chapters who engage in membership presentation shows (probate shows), regardless of the membership status of the members, must adhere to the following guidelines when presenting members. These guidelines must be followed for the performance and rehearsal of any member presentation show. Please remember that these shows should reflect the mission, values, and policies of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma.
1. All Presentation Shows (Probates) must happen in accordance with proper University, Band Program and National Organization Policy and Regulations. Please contact your University Office of Student Affairs or Dean of Students Office to confirm your local campus and university policies prior to the execution of the probate.
2. The Director of Bands or Chapter Sponsor must approve the show material and must be in attendance.
3. Presentation of members must take place no more than thirty (30) calendar days after the members have been initiated into the organization or in accordance with your local university/college policy.
4. If the presentation of members includes a need for space reservations, the local chapter must coordinate with appropriate campus offices and follow all university policies for organizing such an event. This includes, but is not limited to, space/ venue reservations, sound restrictions, and other local university policies.
5. All participants should not be forced to participate and must freely agree to participate in the probate.
6. The show attire worn by the participants should not impede the ability of the participant to move, breathe, or see. (i.e., including the wearing of masks).
7. There will be no vulgarity, sexual explicit material, or profanity. This includes, but is not limited to, inappropriate attire, sexually suggestive moves, cursing, profane gestures, or any material that is not in line with values of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma.
8. There will be no verbal attacks, whether intentional or not (i.e dissing, calling out or slamming), on another individual or organization. This is not in line with values of Kappa Kappa Psi/ Tau Beta Sigma.
9. All alcoholic beverages and controlled substance laws/policies of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma, the state, province, county, city, institution of higher education, and band program must be followed during the event.
10. All portions of the show must be in line with the National Hazing Policy of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma. No abuse will be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, slapping, kicking, spitting, punching, poking, caning, etc. (canes, paddles, staffs, sticks, etc. may be used as part of the performance, but may not be used as a weapon to harm another individual.)
11. In the event of a fight or physical altercation during the presentation, those involved will be removed immediately, University Police will be contacted, and the students involved will be referred to the proper university office for disciplinary action. If a member of the presenting organization is involved, the presentation will be stopped immediately. Any issues should be reported immediately to the Director of Bands/Sponsor.
12. The duration of the presentation will be no longer than one (1) hour total. The presenting organization will be responsible for ensuring the site used is left in its original condition after use. Chapters are encouraged to send drafts of proposed Membership Presentation Shows (probates) to their District Governors/Counselors and/or the National Council for review prior to the execution of the probate to ensure that the show adheres to this policy and to the Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma Hazing Policy.
Policy on Affiliate Groups:
It has been brought to the attention of the National Councils and the National Headquarters that some chapters have established affiliate groups who are unrecognized by Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma yet act in the name of the fraternity and/ or sorority. These groups, known as Love Notes, sweethearts, MIKKY Clubs, Tau Gents, and the like, have been educated and initiated by chapter’s members in the name of the fraternity and/or sorority. Yet the fraternity and/or sorority do not recognize these members in any way. Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma strictly prohibit this activity. Allowing these groups to operate in the name of the fraternity and/or sorority puts the National Organizations at significant risk. Chapters who continue this practice will be subject to disciplinary action and could be dropped from the active roster. In summary, any chapter currently using these affiliate groups should have these groups cease their activities immediately. The National Councils or National Headquarters should be immediately notified of any known instances of these affiliate groups.
Policy on Membership Candidate Terminology:
At the 1991 National Conventions of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma, the national Chapters decided to no longer recognize the word “pledge” or any form thereof as a term to refer to the prospective members of the Membership Education Program. The decision was made at the same time that the Membership Education Programs of the Fraternity and Sorority were revised to promote the positive education of all prospective members throughout the process. In doing so, information within the programs that had any negative connotation suggesting hazing was removed, including any references to the word “pledge.” It is therefore imperative to remove any references to the word “pledge” from all chapter documents, including Membership Education Programs, Constitutions, and any other handbooks on policies and procedures in order to fully comply with the current standards of the National Organizations.
Policy on Sexual Misconduct:
All members of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma must comply with all federal, state, provincial, and local laws and campus policies related to sexual misconduct. This includes, but is not limited to, definitions around consent, sexual violence, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual exploitation.
Stance on Branding/Scarification:
Branding/Scarification is the modification of the human body through burning, cutting or other types of abrasion to the human skin and other areas. Branding/Scarification has increased risk of infection, slow healing third degree burns, internal injury, unintended permanent disfiguring deformities, and other medical issues. It is seen as causing “physical harm and discomfort” or providing a “physical shock” as outlined in the hazing policy. The practice of Branding/Scarification or other forms of body modification that are associated with Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma in an unlicensed environment are “not consistent with academic or musical achievement; Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma law, ritual or policy; or the regulations and policies of the educational institution, band program, or applicable state law.” Consequently, those who engage in the act of branding/scarification or other forms of modification in relation to Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma could be found in violation of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma policy and are subject to action from the National Council. This includes forced or coerced body modification at licensed establishments.
Always remember that willingness to consent to behavior is not a defense for hazing.
Convention Attendance Policy:
As Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma have moved forward, both organizations have had to confront the realities of risk management. Among those realities is the need to make sure that everyone who takes part in the offerings of our active organizations must be sharing in the cost of insurance, and registering as a participant who follows our policies, just as our active members must do for their participation. From this point forward, for all six districts’ conventions and the National Convention, alumni attending conventions must have either a Life Membership or a current National Kappa Kappa Psi Alumni Association or National Tau Beta Sigma Alumni Association membership.
Guidelines on Member Presentation Shows:
In order for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma to assist chapters with the membership process and to avoid potential problems, all chapters who engage in membership presentation shows (probate shows), regardless of the membership status of the members, must adhere to the following guidelines when presenting members. These guidelines must be followed for the performance and rehearsal of any member presentation show. Please remember that these shows should reflect the mission, values, and policies of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma.
1. All Presentation Shows (Probates) must happen in accordance with proper University, Band Program and National Organization Policy and Regulations. Please contact your University Office of Student Affairs or Dean of Students Office to confirm your local campus and university policies prior to the execution of the probate.
2. The Director of Bands or Chapter Sponsor must approve the show material and must be in attendance.
3. Presentation of members must take place no more than thirty (30) calendar days after the members have been initiated into the organization or in accordance with your local university/college policy.
4. If the presentation of members includes a need for space reservations, the local chapter must coordinate with appropriate campus offices and follow all university policies for organizing such an event. This includes, but is not limited to, space/ venue reservations, sound restrictions, and other local university policies.
5. All participants should not be forced to participate and must freely agree to participate in the probate.
6. The show attire worn by the participants should not impede the ability of the participant to move, breathe, or see. (i.e., including the wearing of masks).
7. There will be no vulgarity, sexual explicit material, or profanity. This includes, but is not limited to, inappropriate attire, sexually suggestive moves, cursing, profane gestures, or any material that is not in line with values of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma.
8. There will be no verbal attacks, whether intentional or not (i.e dissing, calling out or slamming), on another individual or organization. This is not in line with values of Kappa Kappa Psi/ Tau Beta Sigma.
9. All alcoholic beverages and controlled substance laws/policies of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma, the state, province, county, city, institution of higher education, and band program must be followed during the event.
10. All portions of the show must be in line with the National Hazing Policy of Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma. No abuse will be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, verbal abuse, emotional abuse, slapping, kicking, spitting, punching, poking, caning, etc. (canes, paddles, staffs, sticks, etc. may be used as part of the performance, but may not be used as a weapon to harm another individual.)
11. In the event of a fight or physical altercation during the presentation, those involved will be removed immediately, University Police will be contacted, and the students involved will be referred to the proper university office for disciplinary action. If a member of the presenting organization is involved, the presentation will be stopped immediately. Any issues should be reported immediately to the Director of Bands/Sponsor.
12. The duration of the presentation will be no longer than one (1) hour total. The presenting organization will be responsible for ensuring the site used is left in its original condition after use. Chapters are encouraged to send drafts of proposed Membership Presentation Shows (probates) to their District Governors/Counselors and/or the National Council for review prior to the execution of the probate to ensure that the show adheres to this policy and to the Kappa Kappa Psi/Tau Beta Sigma Hazing Policy.
Policy on Affiliate Groups:
It has been brought to the attention of the National Councils and the National Headquarters that some chapters have established affiliate groups who are unrecognized by Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma yet act in the name of the fraternity and/ or sorority. These groups, known as Love Notes, sweethearts, MIKKY Clubs, Tau Gents, and the like, have been educated and initiated by chapter’s members in the name of the fraternity and/or sorority. Yet the fraternity and/or sorority do not recognize these members in any way. Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma strictly prohibit this activity. Allowing these groups to operate in the name of the fraternity and/or sorority puts the National Organizations at significant risk. Chapters who continue this practice will be subject to disciplinary action and could be dropped from the active roster. In summary, any chapter currently using these affiliate groups should have these groups cease their activities immediately. The National Councils or National Headquarters should be immediately notified of any known instances of these affiliate groups.