CAIR-NY Condemns Cornell U. for Cancelling Kehlani Performance over Pro-Palestinian Stance
(NEW YORK, NY, 4/25/25) – The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) today condemned Cornell University for cancelling Kehlani’s “Slope Day” performance, citing her pro-Palestinian stance.
SEE: Cornell Cancels Kehlani Performance Over Her Stance on the War in Gaza
SEE ALSO: Kehlani axed from Cornell performance over 'hateful views,' Gaza comments
Kehlani, a prominent R&B singer and social justice advocate, has been outspoken in her opposition to the ongoing genocide in Gaza. In multiple interviews, she has discussed the personal and professional losses she has faced — including financial consequences and industry backlash — since voicing her support for Palestinian rights. Cornell's cancellation of her performance appears to be the latest in a pattern of such repercussions.
Following Kehlani’s inclusion in the Slope Day lineup, an Israeli student group reportedly contacted Cornell University President Michael I. Kotlikoff to object to her participation. Shortly after, the University removed Kehlani from the event, disappointing many students — particularly students of color — who viewed her appearance as meaningful and representative of diverse voices on campus.
Afaf Nasher, Esq. CAIR-NY Executive Director Stated:
“The decision to cancel Kehlani’s performance comes after Cornell University has repeatedly suppressed student protests for Palestine and against genocide. We strongly condemn Cornell not just for cancelling Kehlani’s performance due to her pro-Palestinian stance, but for clearly demonstrating its lack of commitment to free speech and diverse opinion by policing the speech and opinion only of political beliefs in support of Palestine.”
Notably, Cornell also hosted Ann Coulter, a controversial right-wing figure last year, citing free speech and commitment to diversity of opinion. Neither of those reasons seem to be applicable to Kehlani.
SEE: Ann Coulter Appearance Leads to Faculty Arrest
CAIR-NY has repeatedly noted Cornell University for its handling of incidents involving student rights and Islamophobia.
CAIR-NY's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT:
CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com