Cornell cancels Kehlani's performance over antisemitic remarks
- Cornell University planned to feature Kehlani for its Slope Day concert.
- Pro-Israel students voiced strong opposition to Kehlani's previous antisemitic remarks.
- The university's president rescinded her invitation following community backlash to ensure unity.
In the United States, Cornell University faced backlash over its decision to feature R&B singer Kehlani as the headliner for its annual Slope Day concert, scheduled for May 7, 2025. Kehlani's past comments and social media posts contain statements widely viewed as antisemitic and anti-Israel, including calls for violence and the endorsement of 'intifada.' Following this uproar, including a petition signed by concerned pro-Israel students, the university's president, Michael Kotlikoff, announced on April 21, 2025, that Kehlani's invitation was rescinded to prevent further division within the campus community. He acknowledged that the situation had injected discomfort and discord amidst the student body, emphasizing that the aim of the event was to unite rather than divide students. Additionally, the controversy heightened due to ongoing investigations from the federal government concerning civil rights violations relating to antisemitism on Cornell's campus. Kehlani's choice for the concert and the subsequent uproar exemplified the challenges universities face in balancing free expression and the sentiments of various student groups amid rising tensions regarding issues relating to Palestine and Israel. As the university continues to navigate these complex dynamics, it remains to be seen how future concert lineups and campus events will reflect the diverse opinions within their community.