UCLA fraternities ban parties with alcohol

Show Caption Hide Caption Pledge deaths fuel reviews of fraternity life The deaths of at least four fraternity pledges this year have helped fuel a re-examination of Greek life at US colleges, which have long struggled with how to crack down on hazing and alcohol abuse without disbanding the organizations. (Nov. 22)

UCLA students have placed an indefinite ban on fraternity events involving alcohol, citing an effort to better follow the school's ethical standards.

The UCLA Interfraternity Council (IFC), which includes 22 fraternities, unanimously adopted the self-proposed restriction on Tuesday.

In a statement, the organization did not provide specifics on why the decision was made. However, it attributed the ban to "a collective effort" on behalf of IFC leadership to "provide an environment where UCLA's True Bruin Values are upheld." True Bruin Values are ethical standards including respect, accountability, integrity, service and excellence.

Read more: 'Collateral damage': How fraternities can continue to thrive after pledges die

While both the school and the IFC did not immediately elaborate, both of their statements emphasize the need for safety.

"The IFC is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of those present at IFC chapter activities," read the IFC's statement, sent out on behalf of its executive board.

The ban involves those events involving alcohol held at IFC facilities.

The university said it supports the ban, calling it "a step in the right direction to strengthen the safety within the community."

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The university's statement said it wouldn't discuss student conduct cases, adding the school and authorities quickly respond to inappropriate behavior, "which includes, but is not limited to sexual violence and sexual assault."

UCLA becomes the latest school with a ban on fraternities or fraternity activities. Over the last year, four fraternity pledges have died in schools across the country. In response, universities or the fraternities themselves have placed broad restrictions on Greek activities. Other schools have adopted their own changes for a variety of other reasons, including sexual misconduct and alcohol abuse.

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