Kennedy Center Initiates Process to Honor Trump with Name Addition

The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., has begun the process of adding Donald Trump’s name to its building. This decision follows a vote by the board, appointed by the former president, which took place on April 21, 2023. The center, officially known as The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts, will be renamed to include Trump’s name, becoming The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.

On Friday morning, workers were seen hanging blue tarps around the building to obscure the ongoing installation of the new signage. A large letter “D” was visible on the exterior, indicating the start of the name change process. The Kennedy Center, named after the 35th president, John F. Kennedy, has been a significant cultural landmark since its opening in 1971.

The decision to alter the name has sparked controversy. Critics, including some Democratic members of Congress who serve as ex-officio board members, argue that only Congress has the authority to change the name of such a historic institution. Historians have also weighed in, emphasizing the importance of preserving the legacy of John F. Kennedy, a Democrat, alongside the inclusion of Trump’s name, a figure closely associated with the Republican Party.

This name addition is part of a broader trend in Washington, where Trump’s name has been affixed to various buildings, including the recently renamed U.S. Institute of Peace. The Kennedy Center has not publicly commented on the backlash or the legal implications surrounding the name change.

As the installation progresses, public responses remain mixed, reflecting a divided political landscape. Some supporters view this as an appropriate recognition of Trump’s influence, while opponents see it as a misstep that undermines the original purpose of the institution dedicated to the arts and the memory of a president known for his commitment to cultural and civil rights.

The Kennedy Center is also gearing up for its upcoming season, which will feature a diverse array of performances aimed at celebrating the arts. Despite the ongoing name change process, the center remains committed to its mission of promoting artistic excellence and accessibility.

As the work continues, all eyes will be on the Kennedy Center to see how it navigates the challenges associated with this significant shift in its identity. The implications of this name change will likely resonate within the cultural and political spheres for some time to come.