ITHACA, N.Y. — Protesters rallied in Ithaca Tuesday to support “Jane Doe” following her allegations of gang rape at Cornell University.
Students, community members and sexual assault survivors gathered on the Ithaca Commons. News10NBC’s Syracuse affiliate says the “I Am Jane Doe” rally aimed to raise awareness about sexual violence, victim-blaming and the harassment of survivors while pushing for change both on college campuses and nationwide.
Organizers of the rally expressed concerns about the treatment of Jane Doe and other survivors who come forward.
Samara Ferris, an organizer of the rally and a sexual assault survivor, told our affiliate the issues surrounding the investigation reflect experiences shared by survivors across the country.
More about the case
According to a lawsuit filed in September, a woman says she was sexually assaulted at the Chi Pi fraternity house in 2024 by seven students after being plied with alcohol and drugs.
The woman said she was pressured to snort ketamine, smoke marijuana, and drink alcohol — soon becoming incapacitated when the alleged gang rape ensued. The woman is suing the former students, the Chi Phi fraternity, the university, an Ithaca bar and others, seeking undisclosed damages.
We previously confirmed through the details in the lawsuit that one of the defendants, Scott Norris, is from Canandaigua.
Cornell suspends frat parties
On Tuesday, the university announced it would be suspending parties at frat houses and social events until next year. The university also announced a new “zero tolerance” policy that would immediately suspend chapters for violations.
READ MORE: Cornell suspends fraternity parties, gives state police role in investigating campus assault reports
Rally in Rochester
On Oct. 8, the Greater Rochester chapter of the National Organization for Women hosted a rally at Washington Square Park to fight sexual violence and demand accountability.
READ MORE: Rochester rally calls for accountability after alleged gang rape at Cornell University
Related stories
- Hundreds of Cornell students and faculty protest over handling of gang rape allegations
- Cornell gang rape case: NY Attorney General Letitia James to lead investigation, alum reacts
- Examining the number of sexual assault cases on Rochester-area college campuses amid lawsuit against Cornell University
- One man named in the Cornell alleged gang rape lawsuit is from Canandaigua
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