Kehlani was set to headline Cornell University‘s annual Slope Day concert — celebrating the end of the school year — on May 7, but the university announced in an email on Wednesday (April 23) that the singer’s performance was cancelled because of her support of Gaza.
According to The New York Times, Cornell University president Michael I. Kotlikoff wrote, “Although it was not the intention, the selection of Kehlani as this year’s headliner has injected division and discord.”
Kotlikoff explained, “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.”
He reportedly “found out” about Kehlani’s political stance three weeks ago, but said their contract prevented them from making any political statements during the show.
The 30-year-old songstress was been vocal about her support of Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Kehlani has expressed, “It’s f**k Israel, it’s f**k Zionism, and it’s also f**k a lot of y’all too,” on social media and proudly displayed the Palestinian flag in their visual for the single, “Next 2 U.”
Kotlikoff’s decision came after meeting with members of the student board who planned the concert. According to him, those board members agreed that their choice had “compromised what is meant to be an inclusive event.” The board also detailed that it’s too late to find a replacement headliner, but are currently raising money to do so.
Kotlikoff is aware that the decision will be “celebrated by some and criticized by others,” but he ultimately believes cancelling is “the right thing to do.”
Kehlani has not issued a statement about the matter.
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