Kehlani is speaking out after Cornell University canceled their scheduled performance at this year’s Slope Day, citing allegations of antisemitism.
In a video statement released Saturday, April 26, 2025, the singer clarified their position, firmly rejecting accusations of antisemitism and reaffirming their stance as “anti-genocide.”
Earlier this week, Cornell President Michael I. Kotlikoff informed students and faculty via email that the school was rescinding Kehlani’s invitation to headline the May 7 event.
In his statement, Kotlikoff said, “the selection of Kehlani as this year’s headliner has injected division and discord,” adding that many expressed concerns over the artist’s perceived “antisemitic, anti-Israel sentiments” across performances, videos, and social media.
Kehlani responded directly to these claims on Instagram, saying:
“I am being asked and called to clarify and make a statement yet again, for the millionth time, that I am not antisemitic nor anti-Jew. I am anti-genocide, I am anti the actions of the Israeli government, I am anti an extermination of an entire people, I am anti the bombing of innocent children, men, women — that’s what I’m anti.”
The singer explained that her criticism targets government actions, not Jewish people.
She also stated that her work with Jewish Voices for Peace, a Jewish organization critical of Israeli policies, proves her commitment to the Jewish community.
“I still continue to learn from and work alongside really impactful Jewish organizers against this genocide,” Kehlani noted.
Kehlani also addressed the broader implications of the controversy on their career, stating:
“This keeps coming up as a means to silence me, as a means to stop things that happen in my career, as a means to change the course of my life, and I just don’t believe that.”
Before signing off, Kehlani mentioned they were back in the studio working on new music, focusing on the upcoming follow-up to their 2024 album Crash.
The singer has been vocal about her support for Palestine and criticism of Israeli government actions during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Her 2024 music video for “Next 2 U” prominently featured Palestinian flags, kaffiyehs, and the phrase “Long Live the Intifada.”
In 2023, Kehlani also joined the Artists Against Apartheid coalition, signing a letter calling for an immediate ceasefire.
Despite the setback at Cornell, Kehlani made clear her dedication to advocacy and music remains unchanged.
