Folk musician Rhiannon Giddens announced a venue change for her May 11 concert, moving it from the Kennedy Center to The Anthem in Washington, D.C. She expressed her reservations about performing at the Kennedy Center due to recent changes made by a board appointed by President Trump, which she feels politicizes a previously neutral institution. This decision aligns her with other artists, such as the band Balun, who have also canceled concerts there, citing conflicting values with the institution's new direction.
The Kennedy Center show was booked long before the current administration decided to take over this previously non-political institution, but I cannot in good conscience play at The Kennedy with the recent programming changes forced on the institution by this new board.
Recent events made it clear that the space no longer aligns with our values. Our safety, integrity, and commitment to justice come first.
Traditionally, the performing arts center, a 'living memorial' to President John F. Kennedy, has had a bipartisan board. Giddens' decision reflects a broader artist response.
When asked for a response, a Kennedy Center spokesperson said that the Center itself has not changed any programming since President Trump put in motion a number of leadership changes.
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