A Cornell University student's lawsuit over a 2024 gang rape allegation has brought renewed attention to Title IX enforcement. The case highlights how presidential administrations have shifted the law's focus—from expanding women's sports under Nixon to addressing sexual assault under Obama, and now targeting transgender protections under Trump. College officials warn the swinging pendulum of federal enforcement has created confusion and fear among students considering reporting incidents.
The former student, known as Jane Doe, dropped out in February 2025 after seeing her accused assailants on campus. Two students were expelled and others received lighter punishments. Cornell named former acting attorney general Sally Yates to review the university's handling of the allegations.
President Michael Kotlikoff acknowledged he should have been informed of her withdrawal. Title IX, passed in 1972, has been reinterpreted across administrations to reflect changing cultural landscapes, including the #MeToo movement.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing