Kehlani Exits Cornell University Performance Amid Controversy Over Gaza Conflict

Earlier this month, Cornell University made headlines when it announced that Kehlani would perform at Slope Day, its annual spring concert celebrating the end of classes. However, that invitation has been rescinded. The decision came after Kehlani expressed her opposition to Israel’s actions in Gaza, which sparked a backlash.

President Michael I. Kotlikoff shared his concerns with students in a message. He stated that while Slope Day is a beloved tradition, the choice of Kehlani as the main act had stirred division within the community. Many voiced frustration over what they perceived as her antisemitic comments in her music and on social media. Kotlikoff’s decision underscores a growing tension around free speech and the roles of artists in political discourse.

Kehlani has been vocal about her support for Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict, which escalated dramatically after the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023. This violence resulted in significant casualties, with over 1,200 Israelis and more than 51,000 Palestinians reported dead as violence surged. Such statistics reveal the human cost of this conflict and highlight the tensions surrounding the discourse on campuses nationwide.

Shortly after Kehlani’s announcement, a student group named Cornellians for Israel launched a petition to oppose her performance. They referred to her song "Next 2 U," which opened with the phrase “Long Live the Intifada.” The term “intifada,” which means uprising in Arabic, has become a rallying cry in various protests and is charged with significant historical context. It reflects deep-rooted issues of oppression and calls for liberation, making it a contentious topic in discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The broader response to these events reflects a change in how universities approach free speech and representation. Many institutions, including Cornell, are navigating delicate situations where student voices demand accountability alongside free expression. Experts suggest that this growing complexity can lead to a more cautious approach from universities when selecting performers, as seen with the Slope Day controversy.

Continued tensions over free speech on campuses have become especially pronounced under current political pressures. For example, the Trump administration’s policies have scrutinized colleges addressing antisemitism. Recently, more than $1 billion in funding to Cornell was frozen amid these investigations.

In the age of social media, discussions around artists’ views can quickly trend, leading to polarized opinions. Kehlani’s case is not isolated; other artists have faced similar scrutiny for their political stands. As events unfold, college communities will likely remain sites of intense dialogue about the intersection of art, politics, and community values.

For more information on the ongoing events in Gaza, you might find this AP News article helpful.

Check out this related article: The Rock Sets the Record Straight: His Take on the Criticism Surrounding the Pat McAfee Interview