Cornell University Faces Backlash for Inviting Controversial Performer to Annual Concert

Cornell University Faces Backlash for Inviting Controversial Performer to Annual Concert

Students supporting Israel at Cornell University are voicing strong objections regarding the upcoming concert featuring anti-Israel R&B artist Kehlani. The event is part of the university’s annual Slope Day celebrations, scheduled for May 7.

According to reports, a significant number of students have signed a petition urging the university to reconsider its choice of performer. Kehlani has a history of expressing anti-Israel sentiments both in her music and on social media, including calls for an ‘intifada’ against Israel.

The petition articulates sentiments of dissatisfaction, stating, “The fact that the university would allow for students to bring in a performer with views that actively call for violence makes me feel like I am not a respected member of this community.” The outrage among the student body highlights an increasing sensitivity towards expressions perceived as antisemitic in academic settings.

Details Surrounding the Controversy

Cornell University announced earlier this month that Grammy-nominated Kehlani would headline the event. This concert is funded through a Student Activities Fee that each undergraduate student is required to pay. The fee for the ongoing academic year is $384, which is projected to rise to $424 next year.

Student Reactions and Concerns

Jewish students and supporters of Israel have responded vehemently against the board’s decision. They point to several inflammatory social media posts from Kehlani made after the October 7 Hamas terror attacks in Israel. In her posts, she has articulated sentiments such as “it’s f— Israel from the top of my lungs. Idc about the f—– threats. DISMANTLE ISRAEL. ERADICATE ZIONISM.”

In addition, Kehlani has described those identifying as ‘Zionists’ with derogatory terms, stating, “the scum of the earth.” Her rhetoric has raised alarm among the Jewish community at Cornell, as it seems to transcend political critique into outright hostility.

Music Video Controversy

Kehlani’s influence extends to her music videos as well. In the video for her song “Next 2 U,” a message reading “LONG LIVE THE INTIFADA” appears on screen, a phrase many in the Jewish community interpret as a sinister call for violence against Israel. Additionally, the visual imagery in the video features Kehlani and her dancers adorned in outfits with the keffiyeh scarf design, a symbol often associated with Palestinian identity and resistance against Israel.

University Administration’s Response

Response from university officials has not eased student concerns. Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff addressed the protests last week, revealing that the administration learned about Kehlani’s controversial social media posts only three weeks prior to the concert. He explained the difficulty of finding an alternative performer on such short notice.

While trying to calm the frustrations of the protesting students, Kotlikoff indicated that contractual modifications had been made with Kehlani’s team to ensure that any political statements made during the performance would result in forfeiture of payment. This attempt at compromise, however, has not satisfied many concerned students.

Wider Implications for Cornell University

Cornell’s decision to host Kehlani occurs amidst a broader national conversation regarding antisemitism in academia. Recently, the Trump administration announced a freeze on $1 billion in federal grants to the university as it faces investigation related to allegations of antisemitic behavior on campus. This scrutiny aligns with similar actions taken against other Ivy League institutions, including Harvard University.

As the university finds itself at the center of this cultural and political conflict, students hope their concerns will prompt a serious dialogue about respect, representation, and the implications of inviting performers with polarizing views.

A Call for Respect and Understanding

The unfolding situation at Cornell underscores larger societal tensions surrounding free speech, artistic expression, and community dynamics on university campuses. Pro-Israel students, while advocating for their beliefs, are calling for a mutual respect that recognizes the varied identities within the academic community.

With the concert date approaching, all eyes are on Cornell University, as students wait to see how the administration will navigate these complicated issues that impact campus life, identity politics, and the rights of students to express their concerns through peaceful means.