Tue Apr 22 10:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Cornell Defends Slope Day Headliner Amidst Backlash Over Pro-Palestine Stance
**ITHACA, NY** — Cornell University is facing criticism over its choice of R&B singer Kehlani to headline this year’s Slope Day concert. Students and parents have expressed concern over Kehlani’s outspoken pro-Palestine views, which have been prominently displayed on her social media and in her music videos.
The controversy erupted after the April 10th announcement, with President Michael Kotlikoff addressing student concerns at a Thursday Student Assembly meeting. Kotlikoff stated that replacing Kehlani was impossible due to time constraints. While acknowledging the singer’s strong political stance, including a music video referencing the Palestinian Intifada and social media posts criticizing Israel and Zionism, he asserted that the university took steps to mitigate potential political disruptions at the concert.
According to Kotlikoff, the university included a clause in Kehlani’s contract stipulating forfeiture of payment for any politically charged events during the performance. He stated the university was aware of Kehlani’s views approximately three weeks before the announcement, but believed they could manage any potential issues. He cited a recent sold-out concert on her tour that proceeded without incident as evidence.
The timing of the controversy is sensitive, given Cornell’s recent potential facing of $1 billion in federal funding cuts, the reasons for which remain unclear, according to Kotlikoff. One parent commented on the situation within a Cornell University Parents Group on Facebook, questioning the decision to hire Kehlani given the funding concerns.
The university’s decision comes against a backdrop of ongoing tension on campus regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Last month, seventeen protestors were arrested during a campus event on the conflict, and Cornell recently finalized its Expressive Activity Policy following earlier controversy surrounding restrictions on pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
Despite the backlash, Cornell maintains its commitment to the Slope Day concert as planned. The university is betting on Kehlani’s past performances to ensure a successful and apolitical event.
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