San Diego Pride Festival Faces Backlash Over Headliner

News Summary

The San Diego Pride Festival, set for July 19-20, is facing significant backlash following the involvement of headliner Kehlani. Major organizations, including UC San Diego and Mayor Todd Gloria, have withdrawn support due to concerns over Kehlani’s political statements regarding Palestine and Israel. This controversy has led to calls for a boycott from Jewish groups, raising questions about safety for attendees. In an unprecedented move, a founder of San Diego Pride has also announced her boycott. The festival organizers stress their commitment to inclusivity despite the ongoing tensions.

San Diego is currently experiencing backlash regarding the upcoming San Diego Pride Festival, scheduled for July 19-20, due to controversy surrounding headlining artist Kehlani. Several notable organizations, including UC San Diego, UC San Diego Health, and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, have decided to withdraw their support from the festival amidst concerns over Kehlani’s social and political statements.

The primary issue stems from Kehlani’s outspoken support for Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Critics have raised concerns, alleging that some of her endorsements may promote antisemitic rhetoric. A particular point of contention has been her music video, which includes the phrase “Long live the Intifada.” Critics argue that this message is interpreted as a call to violence against Jewish people. In response to these accusations, Rabbi Jason Nevarez from Congregation Beth Israel described an intifada as symbolizing death, destruction, and murder.

In an attempt to clarify her position, Kehlani took to Instagram to address the allegations of antisemitism. She asserted her stance against violence, declaring a distinction between being anti-genocide and being anti-Jewish. Nonetheless, a coalition of Jewish organizations has initiated a boycott of the San Diego Pride events. They emphasize their concerns regarding safety for Jewish attendees, arguing that the sentiments expressed by Kehlani contribute to an unwelcoming atmosphere at the festival.

In a significant response to the situation, Nicole Murray Ramirez, one of the founders of San Diego Pride, announced her decision to boycott the event for the first time in 50 years. This declaration underscored her disappointment over the festival’s association with Kehlani and highlighted the division the situation has created among the traditionally inclusive Pride community.

San Diego Pride has made a public statement, clarifying that the organization does not endorse the political views of individual performers. The festival is set to take place in Balboa Park, featuring performances from Kehlani on July 19, followed by Kim Petras on July 20.

This is not the first instance of Kehlani facing backlash regarding her political views. Earlier in 2023, a concert scheduled at Cornell University was canceled due to her perceived anti-Israel stance. This history of controversy surrounding her political positions might shape public and organizational sentiment as the festival approaches.

Moreover, the situation reflects broader societal themes of division within communities that have often stood in solidarity with each other. According to GLAAD, there were 2,879 anti-LGBTQ+ incidents reported in the U.S. in 2025, underscoring the increasing hate faced by both the Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities. Such rising tensions highlight the need for dialogue and inclusivity as organizations navigate these sensitive issues.

Despite the tension, San Diego Pride urges its members and sponsors to continue supporting the Pride festivities, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and community, even in the face of conflicting opinions. As individuals and organizations grapple with the complexities of social and political issues, the festival serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, awareness, and unity.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

San Diego’s Music Scene: Resilience and Revival
Mayor Gloria Withdraws from San Diego Pride Over Performer Controversy
Controversy Arises Over Kehlani’s Role in Pride Festival

Additional Resources

• CBS 8: San Diego Pride Festival Faces Boycotts Over Controversial Performer
• Google Search: San Diego Pride Festival
• TMZ: Kehlani San Diego Pride Sponsors Cancel Headlining Antisemitic Views
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Kehlani
• Times of San Diego: Jewish Organizations Withdraw From San Diego Pride Amid Kehlani Controversy
• Google Scholar: LGBTQ community issues
• CBS 8: Jewish Groups Withdraw From San Diego Pride Over Headliner Controversy
• Google News: Kehlani Israel controversy