Editor’s note: This article references sexual assault.
Cornell Concerts Commission has canceled its homecoming concert with its headlining band Between Friends, according to a Friday Instagram post.
The cancelation comes amid mounting pressure on Cornell to address its handling of sexual misconduct cases, following criticism from government officials and large-scale campus protests over the University’s response to the alleged 2024 Chi Phi gang rape of a former Cornell student.
“The Cornell Concert Commission is a student-run organization and, as students, we stand with Jane Doe and all survivors of sexual violence,” CCC’s Instagram post states. “It is essential that we advocate and stand up for those failed by the university’s administration.”
The decision also comes after Ithaca Common Council's vote on Wednesday to pass a temporary moratorium on student event permits for Cornell and its affiliated student organizations.
The moratorium will last until Nov. 5 and impacts student organizations’ ability to obtain noise permits for any events with DJs that use amplified sound and those that exceed a certain noise level.
“We know many of you were looking forward to this event, and we sincerely apologize for the disappointment and inconvenience,” CCC’s post states. “While we won’t be able to bring Between Friends to campus this fall, the group is looking forward to connecting with their fans in the area as soon as schedules allow.”
Between Friends is a sibling formed pop duo with over 2.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify. The band’s music spans several genres, including American alternative pop, electronic and indie bedroom pop.
Last October, Ravyn Lenae headlined CCC’s homecoming concert. Before ticket sales last year, the CCC expected a turnout of 1,500 attendees.
This year’s concert was previously slated to be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on Oct. 17 at Barton Hall. Tickets were priced at $17 and refunds will be issued within seven to 10 business days, according to CCC’s post.
CCC plans to hold a charity concert to support sexual misconduct prevention and to highlight local talent, including student bands and DJs. All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, according to CCC’s post.
“It takes so much strength to come forward with such a painful truth, and Jane Doe needs all the support she can get to stay strong during this turbulent time,” CCC’s post reads. “We call on Cornell to create meaningful changes that protect and support survivors.”
Individuals facing difficult or harmful situations are encouraged to seek support. Members of the Cornell Community with concerns about rape and sexual assault can contact Cornell Health at 607-255-5155 for 24/7 support, and Victim Advocates from Cornell Health's SHARE Office can provide personal support and assistance.
Members of the Cornell Community may consult with Student Support and Advocacy Services at studentsupport@cornell.edu or call Counseling and Psychological Services at 607-255-5155. Employees can call the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program at 607-255-2673.
For additional resources, visit health.cornell.edu/services/victim-advocacy. An Ithaca-based crisis line is available at 607-272-1616. The Tompkins County-based Advocacy Center is available at 607-277-5000. To report sexual assault, contact Cornell’s Title IX & Sexual Misconduct Office, which can be reached at 607-255-2242 or titleix@cornell.edu.
Zeinab Faraj is a member of the Class of 2028 in the College of Arts and Sciences. She is a senior editor for the 144th Editorial Board. She was a features editor and an assistant sports editor on the 143rd Editorial Board and can be reached at zfaraj@cornellsun.com.
