In a recent statement, Joe Kennedy III, grandson of former Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, has made it clear that renaming the Kennedy Center would not be permissible under federal law. This comes after an announcement from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt claiming that the Kennedy Center board had voted unanimously to change the institution’s name to the “Trump-Kennedy Center.”
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The Kennedy Center, dedicated in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy, holds a special place in American history as a living memorial to the fallen president. Joe Kennedy III emphasised that the name of the Centre was established by federal law and cannot be altered, drawing a parallel to the naming of the Lincoln Memorial.
This stance by Joe Kennedy III echoes similar sentiments expressed by his cousin Jack Schlossberg, JFK’s only grandson. Schlossberg had previously highlighted a federal statute that specifically prohibits the installation of additional memorials or plaque-like structures at the Kennedy Center since 1983. Both Kennedy family members insist that such a renaming would be illegal.
The controversy surrounding the proposed name change intensifies as Schlossberg contests Leavitt’s claim that the decision was reached unanimously. The congressional leader also asserted that she was muted during the board meeting when she attempted to voice concerns, raising doubts about the authenticity of the process.
Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty, an ex-officio Kennedy Center board member, has also come forward to challenge the White House’s version of events, alleging that participants were prevented from expressing dissenting views during the discussion. Beatty condemned the attempt to sidestep legal procedures and stressed the importance of public involvement in such matters.
President Donald Trump’s interest in rebranding the Kennedy Center has been a focal point, with his ambitions to leave his mark on the iconic institution. Despite previous attempts, such as introducing the “Make Entertainment Great Again Act,” proposing the name change to “Donald J. Trump Center for Performing Arts,” these efforts were unsuccessful.
As the debate continues, the Kennedy Center remains deeply rooted in its historical significance and the legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The pushback from Kennedy family members and board members underscores the importance of upholding federal laws and preserving the integrity of memorial institutions.
In conclusion, the longstanding debate over the renaming of the Kennedy Center serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of President Kennedy and the commitment to honouring his memory through the arts. The voices of dissent, led by prominent figures like Joe Kennedy III and Jack Schlossberg, highlight the importance of upholding legal statutes and respecting the historical significance of public memorials. The future of the Kennedy Center and its name remains uncertain, but the pressure to maintain its original tribute to JFK continues to resonate within the halls of the iconic institution.