Cornell University: Blanket Ban on Fraternity House Social Events Punishes Innocent Groups

On October 13, 2026, after a former student sued the university over an alleged 2024 sexual assault by members of one fraternity, Cornell University announced suspension of all parties and social events at Interfraternity Council (IFC) houses for the rest of the 2026-2027 academic year. On October 16, FIRE wrote Cornell, explaining that punishing all fraternities for the alleged misconduct of one fraternity is guilt by association and violates Cornell’s commitment to  free expression and assembly. Under this directive, even a fraternity fundraiser for survivors of sexual assault could be punishable. FIRE urged Cornell to rescind the directive for any organization not facing a pending complaint and to address misconduct through its existing procedures.