Key facts
- Students and faculty at Cornell University describe a 'dark cloud' and 'dismal' mood on campus due to an investigation into an alleged gang rape from 2024.
- The accuser, Jane Doe, filed a civil lawsuit against Cornell on September 16, claiming she was drugged and raped at a fraternity house.
- The lawsuit alleges Cornell failed to protect the accuser or adequately punish the men involved, known as the Cornell Seven.
- New York Governor Kathy Hochul appointed State Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor, taking over the case from the Tompkins County district attorney.
- A student assembly on Thursday saw many calling for drastic changes and expressing shame over the university's handling of the situation.
- A 'Justice for Survivors' protest is planned for October 5, demanding action against alleged rape culture at Cornell.
A pervasive sense of anger and concern has descended upon Cornell University following the resurfacing of an alleged gang rape incident from 2024. Students and faculty members have described the campus atmosphere as being under a "dark cloud" and "dismal," expressing frustration with the university's handling of the situation and a perceived lack of justice.
The accuser, identified as Jane Doe, filed a civil lawsuit against Cornell on September 16, alleging she was drugged and raped at a fraternity house. The lawsuit claims the university failed to protect her and adequately punish the individuals involved, who have been referred to as the Cornell Seven.
In response to the renewed attention and public outcry, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Thursday the appointment of State Attorney General Letitia James as a special prosecutor to oversee the case. Hochul stated she had "lost faith" in the Tompkins County district attorney, Matthew Van Houten, whose office had initially determined there was insufficient evidence for charges before reopening an investigation.
At a student assembly on Thursday, many students voiced their dissatisfaction, with some labeling the situation a "disgrace" and expressing shame. Undergraduate Sophia Riley Sim stated, "We deserve to know that our institution values our safety more than its reputation," and noted she had missed classes due to distress over the case.
Cornell University has defended its actions, stating it conducted an "extensive investigation" following the incident and adhered to federal civil rights law. The university also mentioned that disciplinary actions, including expulsions and suspensions, were issued, though it cited legal limitations preventing the disclosure of specific outcomes.
Organizers are planning a "Justice for Survivors" protest on October 5, calling for Cornell to take further action, including expelling alleged perpetrators, revising sexual assault policies, and mandating prevention training for campus police. The fraternity chapter at the center of the allegations, Chi Phi, had a chapter closed in 2024 and remains barred from campus.