In a shocking turn of events, Cornell University has opted to cancel the “Nights Like This” singer Kehlani‘s upcoming concert on their campus. The update comes after the institution’s president received several objections regarding the R&B artist’s contentious opinions about antisemitism and the prolonged Israel-Palestine conflict.
Here’s everything you need to know regarding Cornell University’s decision to drop Kehlani’s forthcoming performance.
Here’s why Kehlani was dropped from Cornell University
Michael Kotlikoff, the president of Cornell University, explained in an open letter that he chose to cancel Kehlani’s act as her anti-Israel sentiments seemingly “injected division and discord” into the establishment’s May 7 event. Kehlani had originally received an invitation to conduct a performance at the Ivy League school on Slope Day, an annual celebration held at the university.
In his account regarding Kehlani’s canceled concert at Cornell University, Kotlikoff noted, “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. While any artist has the right in our country to express hateful views, Slope Day is about uniting our community, not dividing it.” (via AP News)
Kotlikoff further added that he consulted the concerned event organizers, as well as the student body, before dropping Kehlani’s concert at Cornell University. He also wrote, “I understand that my decision will be celebrated by some and criticized by others. I believe it is the right thing to do and the decision I must make to ensure community and safety at this high-profile event that reaches the entire campus.”
Notably, Kehlani has always been extremely vocal about her support of Palestine in the West Asian nation’s struggle against Israel. She famously sang in front of a Palestinian flag in the official music video of her hit single, “Next 2 U.” Moreover, the video also featured the phrase, “long live the intifada,” which translates to “long live the resistance” in English. While many interpret the word “intifada” as an appeal to incite violence against Jews, some say the phrase is just a call for liberation.
Originally reported by Apoorv Rastogi on ComingSoon.
