President Donald Trump announced his intention to terminate several members of the Board of Trustees at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and appoint himself as the new chairman. This surprising move comes amid Trump's broader effort to revise federal government structures and policies, including changes to the center's performance schedule.
Currently, philanthropist David Rubenstein serves as the chairman of the board, a position he has held since 2010. Trump's announcement aims to overhaul the board in line with his vision for a "Golden Age in Arts and Culture." He expressed plans to end events featuring performers in drag, a decision that has drawn criticism from the artistic community.
"At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture," – Donald Trump
The Kennedy Center has historically hosted drag performances, including events like the "Drag Salute to Divas" and "Drag Brunch." The institution's governance is established by Congress, and the board of trustees is responsible for overseeing its operations. The current board includes allies of both Trump and President Joe Biden.
The announcement has been met with resistance from drag artists, who accuse Trump of targeting them unfairly.
"This is about who gets to exist in public spaces and whose stories get to be told on America's stage," – Blaq Dinamyte
"Banning an entire art form is censorship, plain and simple. Americans don't have to agree on everything, but we should be able to speak our minds and perform our art without bans, retaliation, or intimidation." – Blaq Dinamyte
Trump's plans include restructuring the board, which features influential figures such as White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and former Obama adviser Stephanie Cutter, along with Trump allies Pam Bondi and Lee Greenwood. The Kennedy Center's website encountered technical issues shortly after Trump's declaration, raising questions about immediate plans and communications.
The Kennedy Center responded to Trump's announcement stating they have not received any official communications regarding changes.
"We have received no official communications from the White House regarding changes to our board of trustees," – Kennedy Center
Furthermore, the Center reiterated its governance structure established by Congress.
"Per the Center's governance established by Congress in 1958, the chair of the board of trustees is appointed by the Center's board members." – Kennedy Center
The chairmanship appointment comes from within the board itself, while television producer Shonda Rhimes currently serves as treasurer. As of now, Trump has not participated in the annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremonies during his tenure.
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