Kennedy Center creates endowment named for Trump after court orders name removal
The Kennedy Center's board approved a new endowment bearing President Donald Trump's name following a district court ruling that required the removal of his name from the venue.
The Kennedy Center's board of trustees voted unanimously on Thursday to establish a new endowment named for President Donald J. Trump. The fund is intended to support existing private endowments and the center's $257 million in federal funding, and will focus on addressing physical repairs to the building.
The board's decision follows a District Court order that required the removal of Trump’s name from the center’s title by June 12. The center complied with the order over the weekend and filed an emergency appeal to stay the ruling.
"We remain fully compliant with the court's directive while we evaluate legal options regarding the Board's unanimous vote," said Roma Davari, vice president of public relations at the Kennedy Center.
A center official described the new fund as a "landmark commitment to securing the future of the nation's preeminent performing arts institution and its enduring legacy of artistic excellence."
Legal filings argue that removing the name could jeopardize fundraising and require refunds of donations made under the former name. Lawyers for Rep. Joyce Beatty, who sued over the naming and planned closures, called the appeal an "11th hour gambit."
The board chair, President Trump, will retain his role, and the venue will continue to serve as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy. The White House has not commented on the endowment.
