Cornell protest exposes dispute over campus assault process
Vandalism at Day Hall preceded student demands for changes to Cornell’s disciplinary system as the university investigates the damage and prepares an independent review of its handling of a fraternity assault case.
Protesters smashed a glass entrance door and spray-painted slogans on Cornell University’s Day Hall in the early hours of Monday, ahead of a student rally calling for justice for survivors. Cornell spokesperson Kyle Kimball said the university was investigating the vandalism.
The demonstration followed a civil lawsuit filed last month by a student identified as Jane Doe. It alleges a gang rape at a Chi Phi fraternity party in October 2024 and names seven former students, Cornell and others as defendants. Lawyers for two former students have denied that their clients participated in sexual assault.
Student organisers called for an overhaul of Cornell’s sexual assault complaint process, the abolition of the campus Interfraternity Council system and stricter disciplinary action against Chi Phi members they allege were involved. They also called for a replacement for the university’s Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.
The allegations remain claims in a civil case. The report says no criminal charges were filed; two students were later expelled and two suspended.
Cornell has said it will appoint a law firm to review its initial handling of the case. The vandalism and rally have brought scrutiny to both that process and the university’s response to student demands.
