Nationwide Protests Erupt Against Sexual Violence Following Cornell Lawsuit
Demonstrations mobilizing survivors, students, and advocates occurred in over 40 states, prompted by a lawsuit alleging assault and institutional failure at Cornell University.
Protests calling for an end to sexual violence swept across more than 40 states on October 8th, as survivors, students, and advocates gathered in communities and on college campuses nationwide. The demonstrations were spurred by a civil lawsuit filed by an individual identified as 'Jane Doe,' who alleges she was drugged and sexually assaulted by members of Cornell University's Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024. The lawsuit further accuses Cornell University of failing to conduct adequate investigations and implement disciplinary actions against those involved.
In response to the lawsuit's filing, prosecutors have reopened the case. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed the state's attorney general to serve as a special prosecutor in the matter.