Issa Rae to Adam Weiner, celebrities who cut ties with Kennedy Center after Trump takeover

Issa Rae joins a long list of artists from Hollywood who are now distancing themselves from the Kennedy Center amidst sweeping changes.

Earlier this month, President Trump indicated that he would be implementing a series of changes to the Kennedy Center, including firing several long-time members of the board of trustees and naming himself as chairman.

“At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture,” said Trump

Later, President Trump announced on social media that he was naming Richard Grenell as the interim executive director of the Kennedy Center after firing longtime President, Deborah Rutter.

The President shared:

“shares my Vision for a GOLDEN AGE of American Arts and Culture” and would be overseeing “daily operations” to ensure there was no more “ANTI-AMERICAN PROPAGANDA.” indicating Grenell, who was Trump's ambassador to Germany during his first term.

The President's involvement in the historic John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts has sparked heated debate and controversy within the artistic community

Why did Issa Rae cut ties with the Kennedy Center?

The One of Them Days producer has canceled her sold-out performance at the Kennedy Center, scheduled for next month, in response to the current sweeping changes taking place at the historic institution. Visitors to the Kennedy Center's website encountered a 404 error message when trying to access information on Issa Rae's performance.

"Hey D.C. Fam, "Thank you so much for selling out the Kennedy Center for 'An Evening With [Me]'. Unfortunately, due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I've decided to cancel my appearance at this venue. All tickets will be refunded. Thank you so much for understanding and I hope to see you soon. Love, Issa.”she wrote on Instagram.

Who are the other artists to cut ties with the Kennedy Center?

Apart from Issa Rae, other artists who have made a similar move include:

Ben Folds

The singer announced his decision to step down as the artistic adviser to the National Symphony Orchestra, which operates under the purview of the Kennedy Center.

“Given developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic adviser to the N.S.O. Mostly, and above all, I will miss the musicians of our nation’s symphony orchestra — just the best!” the songwriter added.

Shonda Rhimes

On Wednesday, the three-time Golden Globe nominee, announced her departure as treasurer of the Kennedy Center's board of directors, through her spokesperson.

Later in the evening, the acclaimed writer posted a quote from John F. Kennedy, seemingly taking a dig at the recent developments.

“If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him.”

Low Cut Connie

Adam Weiner, the front runner of the the Philadelphia rock band, has announced that they have canceled their March 19 concert at the Kennedy Center, due to changes initiated by President Trump.

In an Instagram post, the singer wrote:

"Upon learning that this institution that has run non-partisan for 54 years is now chaired by President Trump himself and his regime, I decided I will not perform there. Arts institutions are one area that should be immune from our corrosive political culture."

He further added:

"Our little rock n roll act stands for diversity, inclusion, and truth-telling. My extended Low Cut Connie community includes black, white, gay, straight, transgender, Jewish, Christian, Muslim, atheist, and immigrant individuals — all of whom are wonderful upstanding Americans. Many of these folks will be directly negatively affected by this Administration’s policies and messaging."

Renée Fleming

The legendary singer has also announced her decision to step down as an adviser to the Kennedy Center. The singer, who is still scheduled to perform at the center for a concert in May, praised the leadership of now dismissed chairman, David. M Rubenstein and said:

“out of respect, I think it right to depart as well.”

The Soprano further added:

"I’ve treasured the bipartisan support for this institution as a beacon of America at our best. I hope the Kennedy Center continues to flourish and serve the passionate and diverse audience in our nation’s capital and across the country.”

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