The prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington, a cornerstone of American culture, is facing a wave of cancellations following its board's controversial decision to incorporate President Donald Trump's name into the institution's title.
In mid-December, the center was officially renamed The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.
This move, approved by a board largely appointed by Trump, has sparked outrage and disapproval among artists and public figures.
As New Year's celebrations approach, the jazz ensemble The Cookers announced they would no longer perform at the center, stating their music aims to "bring people together, not divide them."
Drummer Billy Hart admitted to the American press that the name change "evidently" influenced their decision.
New York dance company Doug Varone and Dancers, along with singer-songwriter Kristy Lee, also withdrew, criticizing the political use of a venue originally established to honor President John F. Kennedy.
"I can't perform on a stage being used for someone else's ego," Lee expressed on social media.
Center President Richard Grenell dismissed the criticisms, describing the cancellations as "a form of hysteria," and accused the artists of "expensive intolerance," hinting at potential legal actions for breach of contract.
The renaming has also raised legal concerns, as the Kennedy Center was designated by a 1964 act of Congress as a national monument dedicated to Kennedy.
Democratic Representative Joyce Beatty has sued Trump, denouncing the renaming as an "authoritarian act."
The Kennedy family has also condemned the change. Joe Kennedy III remarked that "you can't rename a memorial, just as you can't rename the Lincoln Memorial."
Impact of Renaming the Kennedy Center
Why did The Cookers cancel their performance at the Trump Kennedy Center?
The Cookers canceled their performance because they believe their music aims to unite people, not divide them, and the renaming of the center contradicted this mission.
What legal concerns have arisen from the renaming of the Kennedy Center?
The renaming has raised legal issues because the Kennedy Center was designated by Congress in 1964 as a national monument in honor of John F. Kennedy, and altering its name may violate this designation.
How has the Kennedy family reacted to the renaming?
The Kennedy family has condemned the renaming, with Joe Kennedy III stating that renaming a memorial is not possible, akin to renaming the Lincoln Memorial.