Something just doesn’t smell right. Kehlani’s scheduled performance at New York City’s SummerStage in Central Park has been officially canceled due to safety concerns raised by city officials.
The concert, initially set for June 26 during Pride Month, was called off following a notification from the Mayor’s Office highlighting potential security and safety issues related to the event.
Kehlani has not yet publicly commented on the cancellation of her SummerStage performance.
The decision comes in the wake of heightened security demands coinciding with other Pride events and backlash stemming from Cornell University’s earlier cancellation of Kehlani’s performance. A letter from the Adams administration linked the cancellation to “growing security concerns” associated with Kehlani’s recent pro-Palestinian stance, particularly expressed in her “Next 2 U” music video.
The visuals in the video showcased support for Palestinian liberation, leading to criticism from some quarters that perceived it as antisemitic. Kehlani addressed these claims, stating, “I’m not antisemitic or anti-Jew. I’m anti-genocide, anti-actions of the Israeli government, anti-extermination of entire people, anti-bombing of innocent children, men, women. That’s what I’m anti.”
SummerStage emphasized its commitment to artistic expression but cited safety as the primary reason for the cancellation. In a statement, they noted, “We strongly and emphatically believe in artistic expression of all kinds. However, the safety and security of our guests and artists is of the utmost importance.” The organization also clarified that artists’ views do not necessarily reflect those of the festival itself.