The John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts has decided to remove former US President Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump from its honours programme, following significant public criticism.
The prestigious institution, based in Washington DC, had initially included the Trumps in its Honors Gala donor recognition initiative. However, after facing backlash from artists and patrons, the Kennedy Centre quietly scrubbed their names from the programme.
Why the sudden change?
Sources suggest the decision came after prominent figures in the arts community expressed discomfort with the Trumps' inclusion, citing their divisive political legacy. The Kennedy Centre has not issued an official statement, but insiders claim the move was intended to "preserve the non-partisan spirit of the arts".
A history of controversy
This isn't the first time the Kennedy Centre has found itself at the centre of political debates. The institution has previously navigated delicate relationships with various administrations, though rarely with such public consequences.
The honours programme typically recognises major donors who contribute $5 million or more. While the Trumps' exact donation amount remains undisclosed, their brief inclusion - and subsequent removal - has reignited discussions about the intersection of politics and cultural philanthropy.
