Kennedy Center Votes for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by Administration Announcement.
Image Source
The leadership board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, attributing it to "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This will be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy.
Context of the Institution
Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's sitting board members and named supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue.
Inception
The concept for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
This is a developing story. Further context will be provided shortly.