The case was filed in 2022 by 10 former students who say they were sexually assaulted while attending Loyola. Their court filings allege the university systemically mishandled and underreported complaints dating to 2011. The allegations have not been proven in court.

“Women on campus don’t feel safe. Queer people on campus don’t feel safe,” freshman Lucia Battista said at the protest. Senior Caroline Fawcett said the case had brought students into conversations about their own experiences.

One plaintiff, identified in the case as Jane Doe G, told investigators she sought a Title IX inquiry after an alleged assault in 2019. She said university officials asked her to demonstrate how the alleged assailant had touched her, an experience she described as distressing and traumatizing. She also said she felt silenced.

Loyola said it could not comment on pending litigation, citing the privacy of those involved and the integrity of the legal process. In a statement, the university said it takes reports of sexual misconduct seriously and responds promptly and equitably. It also said support is available, including counseling, confidential advocacy and academic assistance.

The plaintiffs are seeking tuition reimbursement and other damages. Loyola’s attempts to have the case dismissed have been denied, and the trial is set for September 2027. Doe G said she has already paid tens of thousands of dollars in student loans.

Battista said students paying to attend Loyola deserve to feel safe. The protest and classroom discussions reflect how a case still moving through court has become a campus-wide concern.