ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Cornell is looking for a new act to headline Slope Day.
Less than a week after President Michael Kotlikoff said it was too late to secure another performer, he announced in an April 23 email that R&B artist Kehlani’s invitation to the annual end-of-the-school-year concert was rescinded.
Several groups at Cornell expressed discomfort with the pro-Palestinian singer’s political views, citing Kehlani’s posts on social media and messages in her music videos. According to the Cornell Daily Sun, Kotlikoff held a town-hall style meeting with around 70 students to gauge their feelings about the potential performance before ultimately deciding to cancel Kehlani’s appearance.
“I understand that my decision will be celebrated by some and criticized by others,” said Kotlikoff in the email. “I believe it is the right thing to do and the decision I must make to ensure community and safety at this high-profile event that reaches the entire campus.”
Kotlikoff says the Slope Day Programming Board, which is comprised of students, agrees that the singer compromises inclusivity at the event. He added that a new lineup will be “announced shortly.”
Slope Day is May 7.