American singer Kehlani voices support for Palestine during concert

• American singer Kehlani has repeatedly used public performances to express support for Palestine.
• The artist previously called for a “Free Palestine” during her 2024 NPR Tiny Desk performance and has continued speaking publicly about the issue.

American singer Kehlani has used her platform to express support for Palestine, including during live performances where the artist has directly addressed audiences about the ongoing situation.

Kehlani has previously responded to calls from audiences for Palestinian freedom, telling concertgoers that she intended to continue using her platform to speak about the issue during her tour.

The singer also publicly declared support for Palestine during a 2024 NPR Tiny Desk performance, saying, “Free Palestine,” alongside calls for freedom for Congo, Sudan, Yemen, Hawaii and Guam. Kehlani also called for an end to the occupation and urged viewers to use their voices.

Kehlani's support for Palestine dates back to at least October 2023, when the singer posted “Free Palestine till it's backwards” on Instagram and criticized fellow celebrities for remaining silent over the situation in Gaza, according to the Palestinian news agency WAFA.

In 2024, Kehlani also raised more than $555,000 through merchandise connected to the singer's “Next 2 U” single, with proceeds directed toward humanitarian aid for Palestinians as well as people affected by conflicts in Sudan and Congo.

Kehlani's activism has also drawn controversy in the United States. In 2025, Cornell University canceled a planned performance by the singer after its president cited concerns over statements the university characterized as “antisemitic, anti-Israel sentiments.”

The singer rejected accusations of antisemitism and said their opposition was directed at genocide and the actions of the ‘Israeli’ government.