Performers at V100 Concert Address NYU’s Controversial Ties and Student Suspensions

At the annual V100 Concert held by New York University, headlining artists Kelela and JPEGMAFIA, along with guest performer redveil, brought to light concerns over the institution's associations with Israel and its approach towards disciplining both staff and students. The event, attended by a large audience, became a platform for the artists to voice their disapproval and call for solidarity with Palestinian causes.

Kelela Critiques NYU

Drawing attention in the midst of her music set, Kelela publicly called out NYU for its policies, especially criticizing the school’s study abroad program in Tel Aviv and its administrative actions against certain staff and students. Further, she pointed fingers at BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, a trustee of NYU, for his company's involvement in Israel and connection to weapons manufacturers. Kelela made her stance clear with a call for a “free Palestine” and an immediate ceasefire.

redveil Supports Justice for Palestine

Shortly before hip-hop artist JPEGMAFIA was to perform, redveil took the stage to amplify Kelela’s remarks. Encouraging the crowd to chant “free Palestine”, he expressed discontent with the university's punitive measures and threw support behind NYU’s Students for Justice in Palestine group. Redveil urged the audience to take a stand against the suspensions affecting those who spoke out on the issues.

NYU, protest, Israel