Kehlani Dropped from Cornell’s Slope Day Amid Backlash Over Gaza Solidarity
Kehlani will no longer be performing at Cornell University’s annual Slope Day concert.
The decision comes after university officials faced backlash regarding the artist’s outspoken support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel.
Initially announced as the headliner for the May 7 event, Kehlani’s invitation was rescinded by Cornell’s executive leadership, according to a report from The New York Times.
University Leadership Responds to Community Concerns
In a statement, university provost Michael I. Kotlikoff explained the cancellation:
“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 emphasized that bringing Kehlani to Slope Day had “injected division and discord” into what was supposed to be an inclusive celebration.
Following a meeting with members of the student board responsible for organizing the event, Kotlikoff said they mutually agreed that continuing with Kehlani as the performer would compromise the event’s purpose.
Anticipating both support and criticism, Kotlikoff added:
“Canceling the performance will be celebrated by some and criticized by others, but I believe it’s the right thing to do.”
Campus Reaction: Divided Opinions
The decision comes after Cornellians for Israel, a prominent student group, demanded the university replace Kehlani.
In an Instagram statement, the group said Kehlani’s appearance:
“Effectively communicates that Israeli, Jewish, and Zionist students are not a welcome part of the Cornell community.”
Meanwhile, others expressed disappointment at the university’s move.
Muna Mohamed, a senior and co-chair of Black Students United at Cornell, shared her feelings:
“I was ecstatic,” said Mohamed, who also identifies as a queer person of color.
“To see it kind of torn from us so quickly, it was kind of like, oh, our happiness never really mattered in the long run.”
Kehlani’s History of Solidarity with Palestinians
Kehlani has been open about their support for Palestinians, both in their music and on social media.
During performances of her single “Next 2 U,” background dancers waved Palestinian flags and wore costumes styled with keffiyehs, a symbol of Palestinian identity.
In May 2024, Kehlani addressed her activism on Instagram, reflecting on her artistic choices amid global conflict:
“As an artist, I was nervous, terrified, worried after losing so much of what I valued for an album I worked incredibly hard on,” she wrote.
“I thought about my favorite revolutionary poets, singers, filmmakers. I remembered how much impact we have.”
Kehlani went on to say:
“A love song IS a protector’s song IS revolution.”
