Women Post Online Using #IamJaneDoe to Back Cornell Rape Accuser

Women across social media are posting the hashtag #IamJaneDoe to show support for a student suing seven fraternity members and Cornell University for a 2024 gang rape. New York law lets sexual assault plaintiffs use the name Jane Doe, but the student has grown very upset as online critics try to find and publish her real name. Her lawyer, Thomas Giuffra, says she is under siege on social media and struggling with the online pressure. The lawsuit, filed on September 16, also led prosecutors to reopen a criminal case they had closed earlier without charges. New York Governor Kathy Hochul named the State Attorney General as special prosecutor and criticized police and prosecutors for not fully investigating the claims. The accused men have denied doing anything wrong, and Cornell has defended its handling of the case.

Online Controversy

Much of the online anger is directed at independent commentator Michael Tracey, who has questioned the accuser and tried to publish what he claimed was her name before deleting it. Mr. Tracey defends his actions as protected free speech, while other women online have posted the Jane Doe hashtag and falsely identified themselves to protect her privacy. Supporters like Katy Jacobson say the hashtag helps survivors feel less alone.

Context

Sexual assault on college campuses remains a major issue, with surveys showing high rates of nonconsensual contact among undergraduate students. Legal anonymity in such cases is designed to protect victims from added trauma while legal proceedings move forward.