The Pi Kappa Phi national fraternity at the University of South Florida has been suspended after several reports of antisemitic and racist acts.
In addition to Pi Kappa Phi, the Sigma Kappa sorority has also been linked to a disturbing string of incidents, including placing swastika symbols, anti-Semitic social media posts about the Holocaust, and several racial remarks.
During hazing rituals, guests were given markers and told to write on shirts belonging to associate members. Several of the participants drew penises and a swastika on the shirts.
Pi Kappa Phi stands by the accused members whose names have not been made public. They said that an anonymous antisemitic post was not made by “the accused member.”
“We support our member who has suffered and the entire Jewish community,” the fraternity statement continued.
The Sigma Kappa is also standing by the accused sorority group, claiming that “new evidence” has proven she has not committed the offenses.
USF has slammed Pi Kappa Phi, charging the group with violating school regulations regarding hazing and underage drinking. They referred to the organization’s actions as “reprehensible.” The Jewish campus group also expressed their disdain for the actions, explaining that their behavior harms the Jewish community and “undermines” the university.
As of now, the Pi Kappa Phi is suspended until further notice. Director of Student Conduct and Ethical Development Melissa Graham has scheduled a meeting on Tuesday to speak with the Pi Kappa Phi about their charges and determine a final decision regarding how long the group will be suspended. It remains unclear if Sigma Kappa received any formal punishment.
