The recent hazing incident involving members of the Westhill High School boys’ lacrosse team in Syracuse is a heartbreaking reminder that hazing remains a serious, ongoing threat to student safety and mental health.

This week 11 Syracuse high school athletes were charged with unlawful imprisonment misdemeanor over alleged hazing. 

This wasn’t a harmless tradition.

Prosecutors say the actions of upperclassmen amounted to assault and coercion — and now 11 students are facing criminal charges.

But punishing individuals isn’t enough. We need to address the culture that allows this behavior to continue.

We’re calling on Governor Hochul and New York State education leaders to launch a statewide anti-hazing education campaign in all middle and high schools — including workshops, trainings, and clear accountability policies.

Equip coaches, teachers, and students with tools to prevent, report, and intervene in hazing.

Ensure that sports programs and extracurriculars prioritize safety, respect, and student well-being over silence and tradition.
 
No family should have to worry that joining a team could lead to trauma. Education is the first step toward prevention.