Issa Rae canceled her sold-out Kennedy Center event after Donald Trump became chairman of its board. She announced on Instagram that the center’s new leadership infringes on its longstanding values. Trump’s plans to reshape the center’s leadership and programming sparked her decision.
Here’s a breakdown of Rae’s cancellation, Trump’s new role, and the ongoing changes at the Kennedy Center.
Why did Issa Rae cancel the Kennedy Center event?
Issa Rae canceled her sold-out event, “An Evening with Issa Rae,” at the Kennedy Center after the board elected Donald Trump as its new chairman.
In a statement on Instagram, Rae cited, “an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums” as the reason for her cancellation and assured that all tickets would be refunded. (via Washington Post)
Trump announced a plan to overhaul the Kennedy Center’s board. On Truth Social, he stated, “Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP.” He added that the center “must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation.” His election as chairman led to the termination of several board members appointed by Democratic presidents.
Shonda Rhimes, a board member and TV producer, resigned after the leadership change. She shared on her Instagram quoting John F. Kennedy: “If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him.”
Musician Ben Folds also stepped down from his advisory role. He wrote, “It’s been a wonderful 8 years working with Kennedy Center President Deb Rutter… encouraging thousands of fresh new audiences to appreciate symphonic music.”
The Kennedy Center’s staff voiced fear and confusion over the changes. One staffer said, “My identity is caught up in this place, and now, I don’t feel safe.” The Kennedy Center canceled the children’s musical “Finn” before its two-year tour, citing financial reasons. The Actors’ Equity Association condemned the cancellation, calling it “disturbing” to see leadership suppress viewpoints.
