Legislature Chair statement regarding Cornell University allegations

Published on September 30, 2026

Statement from Tompkins County Legislature Chair Shawna Black regarding sexual assault allegations at Cornell University

The allegations of sexual assault involving a former Cornell University student are deeply troubling. My thoughts are with the person who has come forward and with everyone for whom this news may bring up painful experiences.

People who report sexual violence deserve to be heard, treated with dignity, and connected with support. Allegations of this seriousness also require a thorough and fair process grounded in evidence and data collection.

I understand why members of our community are asking questions about the response to the allegations in 2024, and I share those concerns. Those questions deserve careful attention and as much transparency as the law allows. The District Attorney is an independently elected official responsible for decisions about criminal prosecution.

I will work with my colleagues to examine matters within the legislature’s responsibility, including asking the appropriate questions and educating the community, seeking legislative reform on the State level, and reviewing and enhancing county processes, resources, and support for people who report sexual violence, while respecting the ongoing legal process and the privacy of those involved.

Sexual violence has no place in our community. Every person in Tompkins County deserves to feel safe and to be treated with compassion and respect.

We also have a moral responsibility to examine the broader systems and culture surrounding sexual violence. No student or resident should ever feel that speaking up will not matter, that their experience will be dismissed, or that the reputation of an institution matters more than their safety and dignity.

As Chair of the Tompkins County Legislature, I want to be clear: women in Tompkins County are valued, their voices matter, and their safety matters. We will continue working with our community partners to strengthen prevention, support survivors, and promote a culture in which sexual violence is never normalized or ignored.

Our community can and must do better. We owe that to every survivor who has had the courage to come forward and share their story.