The Resistance found a new target.
After President Donald Trump took over the Kennedy Center earlier this year, many artists have chosen to leave it.
- Whoopi Goldberg
- Shonda Rhimes
- Lin-Manuel Miranda
- Issa Rae
- Rhiannon Giddens
- Ben Folds
- Renée Fleming
And they won’t be alone.
In today’s political climate, would a person who identifies as progressive be inclined to visit the Kennedy Center? How many contributors might choose to stop donating under Trump-led administration? While tourists make up a portion of the Kennedy Center’s audience, it also attracts well-off individuals from Washington D.C.’s influential circles.
In the heart of a profoundly liberal Washington D.C., I found myself immersed in a world where conservatives are few and far between. The ongoing cultural conflicts, reminiscent of Trump’s second term, continue to simmer. This cinematic journey offered a captivating portrayal of the tension and resilience that characterizes this unique landscape.
It appears that The Kennedy Center might suffer from these conflicts. The art community may share some responsibility for this potential outcome.
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The Kennedy Center was founded with strong support across political lines. Initially, it was known by the name of the slain president, John F. Kennedy, but it received significant backing from former President Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife, Mamie, in the early 1960s.
In 1971, the presidents played a significant role in launching an extensive fundraising campaign that ultimately led to the grand opening of the center.
During his initial term, President Trump experienced a comparable level of tension with the Kennedy Center, as he skipped attending the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony for four consecutive years, thus deviating from the traditional custom.
Trump didn’t act alone.
Under pressure from several prominent artists who threatened to boycott, he chose to withdraw himself from the event, allowing it to continue uninterrupted.
One could argue that artists fired the first shot in the current culture war battle.
Under Trump’s administration, the revamping of the Kennedy Center allowed him an opportunity to voice disapproval towards its contemporary programming, such as all-ages drag shows. This action is a component of his informal crusade against progressive values and ideas, often referred to as “wokeness.
The content of that message might strike a chord with his followers, yet it’s important to note that the majority of Kennedy Center performances are significantly less provocative.
Lately, the news about the Kennedy Center has sparked controversy, yet the facts don’t strictly adhere to the media’s anti-Trump perspective.
In a different phrasing, it’s worth noting that before any actions taken by former President Trump at the Kennedy Center, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington had already decided not to perform at a Pride Month event associated with the children’s book “A Peacock Among Pigeons”. This decision was primarily due to budgetary and scheduling constraints, as reported by Billboard.com. However, some people speculated that the opposite might have been the case.
The kids’ series titled “Finn,” focusing on self-discovery, was canceled as well. This announcement was made a day following Trump’s assumed leadership, raising questions about whether headlines often accurately reflect immediate actions taken by the new administration or not. Could Trump’s team have acted so swiftly in this instance?
Possible. Also unlikely.
One feasible option may have significant caveats. The acting head of the Kennedy Center, Ric Grenell, could potentially address any creative gaps that are often stifled by liberal-leaning organizations.
Instead of confining its unique narrative style to Ohio, why not share some of Stage Right Theatrics’ productions in Washington D.C., such as their adaptation of “The Uncanny” by Andrew Klavan?
Moves similar to these could provide an opportunity for less recognized artists to showcase their talents. Additionally, it would introduce a vibrant burst of creative variety to the venue.
Perhaps many art institutions throughout the nation might benefit from emulating such a focused spotlight, thereby elevating their status and providing a significant recognition for Heartland artists. However, one may question if left-leaning supporters would take notice.
Both sides of the conflict have made mistakes.
Trump’s sweeping comments about the Kennedy Center require a clear interpretation. He particularly criticized drag performances intended for children, yet he didn’t provide specific instances. Generally speaking, most mature individuals comprehend that drag performances may contain adult themes. Consequently, it’s reasonable to be cautious about exposing young minds to such content.
He summoned the word “woke” in connection to the center’s programming, again sans details.
Artists have persistently been distancing or labeling individuals with right-leaning political views as “other.” The mindset that led Kennedy Center Honorees to avoid a gala led by Trump during his initial term has prolonged a conservative blacklist in Hollywood for quite some time.
Or, more concisely:
Artists have been isolating right-leaning Americans for too long, following the example of Kennedy Center Honorees who boycotted a Trump-led event during his first term. This mentality has fueled an ongoing conservative blacklist in Hollywood.
Grenell hinted at that bigotry in his X response to Miranda’s “Hamilton” cancellation.
Initially, the seller and Lin-Manuel chose to share their disagreement with Republicans by approaching The New York Times instead of the Kennedy Center. However, this perceived publicity move could potentially lead to unfavorable outcomes for them.
Art is inclusive – it’s not only for those whom I admire or share views with,” he emphasized. “Every American recognizes you, Lin.
Trump’s brash demeanor continues to fuel political discord, with his lack of specifics adding to the tension. Meanwhile, the liberal arts scene has long been aiming criticisms at conservative groups.
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but notice how often celebrities criticize what they call ‘Red State America.’ Haven’t you caught the vibe during recent award shows?
Furthermore, broadcast networks have been airing programs that cater to conservative audiences with a liberal bias, including late-night shows and “The View.
Conservative artists keep their views quiet lest they invite professional punishment.
Team Trump is retaliating, as they help ensure he remains in the White House again. Regardless of whether it’s fair or not, his actions are not occurring independent of any context.
The Kennedy Center hangs in the balance as a result.
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2025-03-07 20:03