Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, protesting its closure and expressing concern that President Donald Trump could ultimately seek to demolish the landmark.
Participants in the “Hands Around the Kennedy Center” demonstration filled streets in Washington’s Foggy Bottom neighborhood, at one point joining hands to form a human chain around the performing arts center. The protest was organized by Hands Off the Arts.
The demonstration followed a turbulent week for one of the nation’s best-known performing arts venues.
The Kennedy Center’s Trump-aligned board voted Tuesday to close the facility for repairs. The vote came the same day U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper blocked another attempt to add Trump’s name to the building. Cooper has ruled that federal law prevents the board from adding Trump’s name without congressional approval.
The center subsequently closed most public spaces, with officials citing structural deterioration and safety concerns. Trump has also raised the possibility that the building could eventually be torn down if efforts to renovate and financially support it do not proceed.
On Thursday, Cooper ordered the administration to provide at least 30 days’ notice before taking steps to demolish the Kennedy Center or make other major physical changes.
Trump became chairman of the Kennedy Center after returning to office in 2025 and replacing members of its governing board with his appointees.
Friday’s protesters focused on preserving both the building and its longtime role as a national center for the performing arts. Some also expressed concern about changes in programming and the loss of performances since the leadership change.
The Kennedy Center opened in 1971 as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy and has long been home to theater, dance, classical music and other major performing arts programs.
Source: NBC