ITHACA, New York (AP) — Cornell University is facing significant backlash from its student body over the university's handling of sexual assault allegations related to a fraternity. A large protest occurred on campus, where students, faculty members, and supporters gathered at the student center, displaying signs that read "support survivors, expel rapists" and "Justice 4 every Jane Doe," referring to the woman involved in the case. The university’s main administration building suffered damage, with graffiti condemning the school's response to sexual assault painted on its walls.
During the protest, student Athena Holloway addressed the crowd, expressing frustration over the university's lack of adequate support for survivors of sexual assault. She lamented, "How much does it take for our university to stand with survivors?" Meanwhile, Hispanic studies professor Julia Chang contributed to the growing sentiment, stating, "Rape should not be inevitable." Calls were made for Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff to resign, as demonstrators accused him and administrative officials of prioritizing the institution's reputation over the safety and well-being of students.
Protesters chanted slogans like "Kotlikoff, resign!" as they marched to the administration building to present their list of demands, which included redefining sexual consent in the student code of conduct, overhauling the student discipline system, and ensuring that students involved in the alleged 2024 assault faced expulsions or degree revocations. Student Madeline Gage emphasized the need for action, stating that despite the strong feelings surrounding sexual assault, the university does not do enough to prevent these incidents or support survivors when they occur.
The controversy surrounding the university intensified following the allegations that Jane Doe, a Cornell student, was sexually assaulted by multiple members of the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024. Reports indicate that she was pressured into consuming alcohol and drugs before the assault occurred. Jane Doe has since filed a lawsuit against the university, seven former students, the fraternity itself, and others, claiming she became fully incapacitated during the incident. According to her account, one individual sent messages inviting others to join the assault, which she described as feeling like "bait" in a "totally debilitating place."
Recent media coverage highlights that Jane Doe recorded a conversation with one of the accused men, during which she told him that the acts committed could be classified as gang rape. Despite her claims, lawyers representing some of the accused maintain that the sexual activities were consensual. No criminal charges have yet been filed in this case, although the Chi Phi chapter at Cornell has been shut down, and the university confirmed that some students had been expelled or suspended as a consequence.
Cornell University spokesperson Kyle Kimball stated that the institution is investigating the incident, yet he condemned the vandalism and property damage carried out during the protest. After the demonstration, university officials removed the graffiti and boarded up damaged doors. The ongoing situation has garnered national attention, with calls for accountability and transparency from the university administration. New York Governor Kathy Hochul criticized the university and local authorities, stating that Jane Doe was "failed by people and institutions," and announced an independent investigation into the handling of her case.
In response to the uproar, President Kotlikoff released an apologetic video acknowledging the troubling issues surrounding sexual assault, alcohol use, and party culture. He has called for an independent review of the university's actions and reaffirmed the commitment to increased transparency and accountability. The case continues to evolve, sparking discussions about the handling of sexual assault allegations within higher education institutions.
