I am writing this petition today fueled by my personal journey through the challenging and often unsupportive landscape faced by survivors of sexual violence at Cornell University. Like many others, I sought the justice and security promised by the institution, yet found myself frustrated by layers of bureaucracy and insufficient protections.

Cornell University has a responsibility to provide a safe and supportive environment for all its students, staff, and faculty. Unfortunately, many survivors, including myself, have encountered significant obstacles in reporting incidents and receiving effective and compassionate support. The systems currently in place often fall short of ensuring the accountability of perpetrators and protecting survivors from further harm. This must change.

According to a report by the Association of American Universities, more than 20% of female undergraduate students experience some form of non-consensual sexual contact during their time at college. This statistic is heartbreaking and underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to protect and support survivors.

Our petition calls for Cornell University to take definitive action by:

1. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Implement regular public reporting of statistics related to sexual assault cases on campus, while safeguarding survivor anonymity. This will ensure that the university remains accountable and transparent in its handling of cases.

2. Strengthening Support Systems: Increase funding and resources for campus programs dedicated to supporting survivors, such as counseling services, legal aid, and survivor advocacy groups. These services must be easily accessible, visible, and inclusive.

3. Comprehensive Education and Training: Develop mandatory and thorough educational programs for students, staff, and faculty focusing on consent, bystander intervention, and the reporting process. This will foster a community that is informed, compassionate, and committed to stopping sexual violence.

4. Policy Reforms: Review and amend current policies to close any gaps that prevent effective reporting and actions against perpetrators. This includes establishing clear and supportive guidelines for handling complaints.

Numerous students and survivors are counting on these changes. We believe that with collective action and commitment, we can create a safer and more just community at Cornell University.

Join me in this fight for change. Stand with survivors, demand accountability, and ensure that our university becomes a leader in supporting those who have suffered from sexual violence. Please sign this petition to urge Cornell University to implement these critical reforms.