Kennedy Center protesters oppose Trump’s takeover and military plans

Thousands of protesters gathered at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., to oppose President Trump’s actions regarding the institution. The organization Hands Off the Arts, formed by former staff and artists, led a human chain to protest worker layoffs, the purging of the center’s board, and threats to close or demolish the building for a $257 million renovation.

In response to a court order by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper requiring the board to provide 30 days’ notice before making major physical changes, President Trump announced plans to convert the planned Triumphal Arch at the Receptive Circle into a military complex. Citing national security and requests from the U.S. Military, the President stated the facility would house drones and snipers. This follows previous disputes regarding the use of the center’s ballroom, which the President has also characterized as a national security necessity.