Dave Chappelle’s Alma Mater Called Off Fundraiser Amidst Concerns Over Student Protests

“They’re canceling stuff I didn’t even want to do,” Chappelle said, per IndyStar. “If you think you’re mad at me — remember, I didn’t disinvite you from anything.”

Last week, the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C.—from which Chappelle graduated—called off a planned fundraiser over the widely criticized comments the comedian made in his latest Netflix special The Closer. The school initially announced a Nov. 23 fundraiser for a new theater that was set to carry Chappelle’s name.

According to a Politico report, many students were “uncomfortable” with supporting Chappelle. Some students reportedly talked about staging a walkout but the school eventually decided to cancel the fundraiser.

As a learning institution that champions inclusivity, diversity, equity and belonging, we care deeply about protecting the well-being and dignity of every member of our student body, faculty and community,” the school said in a statement. “We also believe moving forward with the event, originally scheduled for November 23, 2021, without first addressing questions and concerns from members of the Ellington community, would be a missed opportunity for a teachable moment.”