In a heartfelt video posted on April 26, the R&B singer addressed the university’s decision and firmly denied any allegations of antisemitism.
“I’m not antisemitic or anti-Jew. I’m anti-genocide,” Kehlani said, appearing alongside both Jewish and Palestinian friends.
“I’m anti-bombing of innocent children, men, and women. That’s what I’m anti.”
The cancellation came after Kehlani’s outspoken support for Palestine and criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The decision sparked intense debate across the Cornell campus and beyond.
Kehlani’s Pro-Palestinian Stance
Kehlani has consistently used her platform to highlight human rights issues in Gaza. She stressed in her video that her criticisms are directed at Israeli government actions—not at Jewish people or Judaism.
The Grammy-nominated singer also pointed to her long-standing work with Jewish Voice for Peace, an anti-Zionist organization focused on ending U.S. support for Israel’s military occupation.
“I continue to learn from and work alongside impactful Jewish organizers against this genocide,” she said.
Cornell’s Statement on the Controversy
Originally set to headline Slope Day on May 7, Kehlani was removed from the lineup by Cornell’s administration. In a statement, Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff said her presence had caused “division and discord” within the student body.
“In the days since Kehlani was announced, I have heard grave concerns from our community,” Kotlikoff explained.
“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 a meeting with the student planning board resulted in a consensus to cancel her performance. Despite acknowledging the decision’s controversy, he maintained it was “the right thing to do.”
Student Group Pushes for Removal
The student organization Cornellians for Israel was among the most vocal opponents of Kehlani’s participation. In an Instagram post, the group claimed her presence would send the message that “Israeli, Jewish, and Zionist students are not a welcome part of that community.”
Kehlani: “Stand on Your Zionism, Not Lies”
In closing, Kehlani pushed back against what she described as misrepresentation of her views:
“If you want to cancel me, stand on it being because of your Zionism,” she said.
“Don’t make it anti-Jew. That’s not what this is.”
