Student activists at Cornell University vandalized an administration building early Monday morning in response to the university's handling of gang-rape allegations linked to a high-profile case. The incident occurred around 3 AM at Day Hall, where students smashed a glass door and painted messages on the walls.
Protest Details
The messages, written in red paint, included phrases such as "SMASH THE PATRIARCHY" and "AT CORNELL RAPISTS ARE PROTECTED PROTESTORS ARE EXPELLED." Activists also painted over a security camera positioned above one of the messages. According to a statement from the student activists, the actions were driven by a recent lawsuit alleging a 2024 fraternity-house gang rape and were intended as a protest against the systemic issues that allowed such incidents to occur.
“"We wanted to ensure that Day Hall, the center of Cornell’s administrative function, was not able to continue business as usual," the statement read.
University Response
Kyle Kimball, a spokesperson for Cornell, acknowledged the community's concerns but condemned the vandalism. He stated, "We understand the frustration and strong emotions being expressed across our community. Those concerns deserve to be heard, but damaging property is not the answer." Kimball confirmed that the university is investigating the vandalism and will address it according to university policy and applicable law.
