Kehlani has addressed Cornell University’s decision to cancel her upcoming Slope Day performance following backlash over her pro-Palestine views. In a video shared on April 26th, the singer firmly denied allegations of antisemitism and explained that her criticisms are directed at Israel’s military actions in Gaza, not Jewish people. “I’m not antisemitic or anti-Jew. I’m anti-genocide,” Kehlani said, appearing with Jewish and Palestinian friends. “Anti-bombing of innocent children, men, and women. That’s what I’m anti.”
Kehlani also emphasized her history of solidarity with Jewish activists, pointing to her early partnership with Jewish Voice for Peace. “I continue to learn from and work alongside impactful Jewish organizers against this genocide,” she added.
Originally announced as the May 7th headliner for Cornell’s annual Slope Day, Kehlani was later removed from the lineup by university leadership. Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff explained that her involvement “injected division and discord” within the campus community. “In the days since Kehlani was announced, I have heard grave concerns from our community that many are angry, hurt, and confused that Slope Day would feature a performer who has espoused antisemitic, anti-Israel sentiments in performances, videos, and on social media,” Kotlikoff said.
Following a meeting with the student board that planned the event, Kotlikoff said they agreed that booking Kehlani “compromised what is meant to be an inclusive event.” Aware the decision would draw both praise and criticism, he said canceling her performance was “the right thing to do.”
Student organization Cornellians for Israel had also demanded her removal, claiming on Instagram that her selection “effectively communicates that Israeli, Jewish, and Zionist students are not a welcome part of that community.”
Despite the controversy, Kehlani stood firm: “If you want to cancel me, stand on it being because of your Zionism. Don’t make it anti-Jew.”
Leave a Reply