R&B singer Kehlani has broken her silence after being removed from the lineup for Cornell University’s Slope Day concert, a decision the university says was made in response to her outspoken support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel.

The announcement, made just weeks before the annual spring celebration, has sparked a wave of reactions, with some praising Kehlani’s advocacy and others supporting the university’s stance.

In a statement explaining the decision, Cornell University President Michael Kotlikoff said:

“In the days since Kehlani was announced, I have heard grave concerns from our community. 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.”

Kehlani, however, has not backed down. Taking to her platforms, the singer expressed disappointment at the decision and reiterated her stance against violence and oppression. “I am anti-genocide,” she declared, emphasizing that her advocacy for Palestinian rights stems from a commitment to human rights, not hatred.

The controversy centers on Kehlani’s consistent use of her platform to criticize Israel’s military actions in Gaza and amplify voices calling for Palestinian liberation. While her supporters see her as a fearless advocate for justice, her detractors accuse her of promoting divisive and antisemitic rhetoric.

For many students and community members at Cornell, the debate reflects broader tensions about free speech, activism, and the boundaries of political expression in spaces meant to foster unity.

This isn’t the first time an artist’s political views have collided with university events, but the removal of Kehlani — a high-profile performer with a passionate fan base — has reignited discussions about the role of art and activism in academic spaces.

As the dust settles, Kehlani remains unapologetic. “My voice is for those who feel voiceless,” she shared. “I will continue to speak out for justice, no matter the cost.”