Letters to the Editor published on December 25, 2025.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has long been a symbol of artistic excellence and cultural significance in America. Its name is associated with a legacy of creativity and public service that stems from the vision of President John F. Kennedy, who championed the arts as a means of fostering national pride and unity. However, the recent decision to append Donald Trump’s name to the institution has sparked a contentious debate about the implications of such a move.
Donald Trump, known for his eagerness to attach his brand to various ventures, is now making his mark on the Kennedy Center. Critics argue that this act introduces a profound discord, starkly contrasting with the center’s historical commitment to harmony and artistic integrity. The juxtap of Trump’s polarizing presidency against Kennedy’s inspiring vision raises serious questions about the values each figure represents.
Historically, President Kennedy’s initiatives included the establishment of the Peace Corps, which aimed to promote global cooperation and goodwill. In contrast, Trump’s tenure was marked by a stark departure from such ideals, leading to significant cuts to important agencies like the U.S. Agency for International Development, which negatively impacted humanitarian efforts. Similarly, where Kennedy fostered the Alliance for Progress to enhance prosperity in Latin America, Trump’s administration was infamous for militaristic policies that some critics deem as fostering violence rather than peace.
Furthermore, Kennedy laid the groundwork for landmark legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. In sharp contrast, Trump’s directives have been criticized for perpetuating systemic inequalities and undermining minority representation.
In light of these stark differences, many advocates are calling for the removal of Trump’s name from the Kennedy Center. They argue that allowing such a move not only tarnishes the memory of Kennedy but also undermines the artistic and cultural mission that the center was established to uphold.
As the nation grapples with these issues, the debate reflects broader questions about how leadership is defined and remembered. Advocates for returning to the center’s original ethos believe that removing Trump’s name is essential for restoring harmony and honoring the legacy that Kennedy sought to cultivate.
In this era of heightened political polarization, the actions taken regarding the Kennedy Center symbolize a broader struggle for the country’s identity, values, and the direction it wishes to take moving forward.
