John F. Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added.
The proposed move is likely to prove extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Institution
Soon after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to finance extensive repairs and other financial needs at the national venue.
Inception
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This report is being updated. Further context will be added as it becomes available.
