(NEW YORK) – On Wednesday, Cornell University rescinded its invitation to American R&B artist Kehlani to perform at its annual end-of-year ‘Slope Day’ concert. In a letter, Cornell president Michael I. Kotlikoff cited concerns raised by many in the campus community over the artist’s “antisemitic, anti-Israel sentiments in performances, videos, and on social media” and said that her selection had “injected division and discord” into the day. Kehlani has been outspoken in their support of Palestine, particularly following the onset of the 2023 Israel-Hamas War. In a meeting with students before the decision was announced, Kotlikoff reportedly also expressed concern about being unable to “prevent” other forms of expression during the concert that presumably might offend, such as signs or flags.
The cancellation comes as Cornell, along with other universities, faces investigation by the Trump administration for alleged antisemitism, and heightened sensitivity to appearing to not do enough to protect Jewish and Israeli students from hate.
Kristen Shahverdian, program director for Campus Free Speech released the following statement:
“Free expression must remain a pillar of our university campuses. Whether it be a speaker at graduation or an artist performing for a campus concert, once an invitation has been offered and accepted, there must be a very high bar for rescinding it, especially when the basis for doing so is predicated on offense taken at their past commentary or political views. Just because a speaker might offend, or cause discord, is not a sufficient reason to exercise the authority to cancel their appearance for all students.
Universities should take steps to address antisemitism; but there are numerous other and better tools to address hateful speech through education and dialogue, rather than turning to the blunt tool of cancellation. And at a time when speech that is critical of Israel has been uniquely targeted by public and private institutions in the U.S., including by the federal government, it is all the more distressing to see a decision so at odds with the values of free expression and open exchange that American universities are meant to stand for.”
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Contact: Malka Margolies, [email protected], 718-530-3582