Cornell suspends frat parties after alleged gang rape

Cornell University has suspended fraternity parties and social events for the remainder of the 2026-27 academic year following an outcry over an alleged 2024 gang rape at one of its all-male clubs. According to the South China Morning Post, a graphic lawsuit filed last month regarding the incident led to accusations that the Ivy League institution failed to properly punish those involved.

University President Michael Kotlikoff announced the measures on Tuesday, October 13, noting that the restrictions will allow the university to review fraternity life and determine how it can continue safely.

The suspension applies to social events and parties at houses affiliated with Cornell’s Interfraternity Council, which includes more than 20 active fraternities. Hindustan Times - World News reports that the university plans to involve the New York State Police in investigating campus sex crime allegations and will implement immediate emergency suspensions for chapters that violate a zero-tolerance policy.

Additionally, the university intends to fund efforts to develop safer social activities with students and faculty experts, and will add a case manager to its Office of Civil Rights to assist students reporting sexual misconduct.

Euronews reports that Cornell has appointed former US Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to conduct a comprehensive independent review of the university's response to the rape allegations. Channel News Asia stated that the suspension is intended to allow for a review of fraternity life following protests demanding accountability and improved protection for survivors.

Brief written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, Euronews, Hindustan Times - World News — 4 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.