Kennedy Center memo directs staffers to remove Trump’s name from the arts center
Staff must immediately restore the original name as the center weighs whether to stay open for a $257 million renovation, officials said.
- Following a federal court order, the Kennedy Center is instructing staff to immediately revert its name to 'The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.' Lawyers issued a memo Thursday outlining required changes to signage and official materials.
- U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled last week that the board overstepped its authority by renaming the venue in December. Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty filed the lawsuit challenging the unauthorized change.
- The court's injunction also halted plans to close the center for two years of renovations beginning in July. Officials are still 'considering their options' regarding the $257 million project pending further guidance.
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum declined to confirm whether the administration will appeal, calling the dispute 'controversy on both sides.' President Donald Trump stated he plans to work with Congress to transfer the 'failing Institution' back to them.
- Physical and digital signage must be switched back by Friday, June 12, 2026, according to the memo. Although the board previously honored Trump for 'unbelievable work' in saving the building, the center must now comply with the legal mandate.
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157 Articles
A federal judge declared the addition of Trump's name illegal. Now signatures, signs and website are supposed to have the old title again. An analysis.
Kennedy Center commits to recognizing Trump after taking down his name
The Kennedy Center emphasized that it remains committed to recognizing President Donald Trump while facing a court order mandating the institution reverse a name change honoring the president. A federal court handed down a decision in late May, ruling that Trump’s name must be removed from the Kennedy Center within two weeks, after his name was added to the title in December. Kennedy Center leadership responded that it would comply with the cour…
Social networks, documents and signage will have to be updated following a court order. An internal memorandum has already ordered immediate changes to the institutional image of the Kennedy Center.
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