Protests against sexual violence erupted in cities across the United States on Thursday, drawing attention to the case of a former Cornell University student identified as Jane Doe, who alleges she was gang raped in October 2024 by seven Chi Phi fraternity brothers.
Demonstrations unfolded in Washington, D.C., New York City, Los Angeles, and Tucson, where crowds marched with signs and delivered speeches condemning the alleged assault. In Tucson, participants chanted "no more silence, no more crimes" and carried signs reading, "Unite Against Sexism and Racism," according to TMZ.com.
In New York City, protesters assembled in Lower Manhattan, where one woman told TMZ.com that the movement would secure justice for survivors of sexual violence. Similar gatherings took place in Washington and other locations, with attendees holding signs and giving speeches.
The lawsuit filed by Doe claims the fraternity members gave her ketamine before sexually assaulting her. The seven men have categorically denied the allegations. The Tompkins County District Attorney's Office opted not to pursue charges, stating that the evidence indicated the encounter was consensual.
In response to the case, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has directed New York Attorney General Letitia James to conduct a second investigation to determine whether the initial probe overlooked any evidence.