Reactions from Sorority Members Following Alleged Assault at Cornell

The alleged gang rape at Cornell University has prompted significant public outcry, but many women within the Greek system report that they are not surprised by the incident. Interviews with current and former sorority members reveal a sense of familiarity with such events. Riley Kate Higgins, a 22-year-old senior at the University of Washington and president of the Panhellenic board, stated, "A lot of our girls were like, ‘Yeah, this is something that happens. This is something that we’re familiar with.'" She noted that new members are feeling apprehensive as they begin the school year. An anonymous member of Alpha Delta Pi at a northeastern state school mentioned that discussions about safety have intensified in light of the Cornell case, with sorority members taking precautions such as locking doors and covering drinks. Some fraternity members are reportedly becoming more cautious as well. A sorority president expressed her struggle to address the situation within her organization, stating that the case has weighed heavily on her and her members. Former sorority members also conveyed their awareness of the risks associated with partying. Efforts to address sexual assault within Greek life have been ongoing for years, including initiatives like the "Drunk Does Not Equal Consent" chapter guide released by Zeta Tau Alpha in 2014 and the implementation of a "sober sister" program. This program was reportedly in place at Cornell, where the victim was meant to fulfill the role of sober sister on the night of the assault but was unable to do so due to an earlier incident. The reputation of Greek life has been declining, with surveys indicating significant support for abolishing these organizations at various universities. A 2023 YouGov poll found that less than a quarter of Americans believe sororities and fraternities positively impact campus culture. Influencer Brandis Bradley expressed her diminishing faith in the system, while rush coach Bill Alverson highlighted the naivety of some new members regarding the risks of sexual assault on campus.