Cornell University, in its so-called commitment to “diverse discourse,” has found itself at the center of a controversy after choosing to invite Kehlani, an entertainer with views many label as dangerously antisemitic.
At a Glance
- Cornell’s decision to invite Kehlani has sparked backlash over her anti-Israel views.
- Critics argue that the safety of Jewish students is being compromised.
- The university maintains that exposure to diverse ideas is essential.
- Petitions and protests are underway demanding a new performer.
Kehlani’s Controversial Invitation
Entertainment at universities should inspire and include everyone. However, Cornell University has taken a questionable step by inviting Kehlani to perform on May 7. The backlash is fierce, with allegations swirling about Kehlani’s past statements that support violence against Israelis. Critics cite her music video that opens with the line “Long live the Intifada,” a view that undeniably offends a considerable portion of the student body.
How Cornell, a supposedly prestigious institution, could overlook Kehlani’s map depicting the elimination of Israel is beyond comprehension. Yet, here we are, with students like Amanda Silberstein voicing fears about safety and wellbeing being dismissed. These choices Cornell makes are not trivial; they ripple through the community, prompting genuine concern.
Cornell’s Stance and Its Impact
Cornell upholds that inviting Kehlani aligns with student preferences and contracts restricting political expression during her performance. The administration claims ignorance of her anti-Israel stance when booking her, a baffling abdication of responsibility. Amanda Silberstein wisely labels it “honestly laughable” and “hypocrisy at play.” This invitation follows Trump administration’s $1 billion federal fund freeze for similar neglect.
“By inviting someone with such a deeply troubling history of antisemitism to headline one of our most high-profile campus events, Cornell is sending a message that Jewish safety and wellbeing are negotiable.” – Amanda Silberstein.
Protests, demands for alternative performers, and critiques from Cornellians for Israel are swirling. A petition and GoFundMe campaign aim to support a replacement concert. Critics fear bias: confident Cornell would react differently if another group were targeted. How can such a divisive choice fulfill their educational duty?
Balancing Freedoms and Community Safety
Universities wrestle with balancing freedom of expression against protecting student safety. Cornell emphasizes that hosting a speaker doesn’t equate to endorsement. Previous antisemitic activities at Cornell, however, show an ongoing problem. How does this serve students beyond adding unnecessary tension to an already fraught campus environment?
“Black students wouldn’t be expected to welcome a KKK rock band on campus. Asian students weren’t told, ‘Asian hate, get over it’. So why are Jewish students treated as the exception?” – Liora Rez.
No one denies the importance of varied perspectives in education, yet promoting an artist with a track record of dangerous rhetoric seems a misstep. As voices rise against Cornell’s choice, it’s crucial for educational institutions to reconsider how they balance discourse with the basic safety and inclusion of all students.
