Thousands formed a human chain around the Kennedy Center in a "Hands Around the Kennedy Center" protest after President Trump suggested renaming or even demolishing parts of the landmark. Protesters used satirical signs and costumes to express opposition to the administration's attempts to exert control over the institution. Federal judges have blocked efforts to add the president's name to the building and ordered at least 30 days' notice before any physical changes while litigation continues. The dispute highlights tensions between arts advocates and officials over the future and stewardship of the national cultural center.
Thousands Form Human Chain in 'Hands Around the Kennedy Center' Protest After Trump Floats Renaming, Demolition
Photo Credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images News via Getty Images
Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the shuttered John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, linking arms to form a human chain around the building in a protest organizers called "Hands Around the Kennedy Center." The crowd rallied after President Donald Trump suggested changes to the landmark, including proposals that opponents interpreted as calls to rename or even demolish parts of the venue.
The demonstration brought theatrical flair to the streets: protesters carried satirical signs reading "You're No Jack Kennedy," "Hands Off the Arts" and "Wicked: Starring DJT." One attendee wore a "Make America Intelligent Again" hat, while another donned a Trump mask and crown and carried a placard that read, "Restore my name in gold, you sycophants," according to The Daily Beast.
Board Takeover and Legal Fight
The protest followed a contentious period after President Trump installed new appointees on the Kennedy Center's board and sought to press his influence over the institution. The board voted to close the facility for repairs, and Trump continued to push for his name to be attached to the center — a move that has faced legal challenges.
A federal judge has previously ruled that only Congress may authorize an official renaming of the Kennedy Center, and this month U.S. District Judge Christopher R. Cooper blocked another attempt to add the president's name to the building's facade. The judge also ordered the center to provide at least 30 days' notice before undertaking any major physical changes — including demolition — while the legal dispute over the closure continues.
Trump's Comments and Response
A photograph taken aboard Air Force One showed President Trump studying an image that appeared to depict the Kennedy Center being demolished; the image and subsequent comments intensified public concern and debate. In the Oval Office, Trump said he could "save" the Kennedy Center "easily" but questioned why his administration should continue raising funds to support it without receiving public recognition.
"But why should we be doing that and then raise money for the rest of our lives to keep it afloat? Because that's what you have to do if we get no recognition," Trump said, arguing his administration should be acknowledged for saving the institution.
Supporters of the Kennedy Center say the building is a national cultural institution that should be protected from politicized branding or drastic structural changes. Protesters and arts advocates called Friday's human chain a clear message: keep the arts center intact and free from unilateral renaming or demolition.
Reporting note: Details of legal proceedings and board actions were reported by multiple outlets and reflect the status of the dispute as of this article's publication.
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