Court Rules to Restore Kennedy Center’s Original Name

The Trump Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts must revert to its original name. A memo from the center’s general counsel to staff instructs immediate compliance. This follows a federal court ruling.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper backed Democratic Rep. Joyce Beatty’s lawsuit. She contested the name change and planned two-year closing for renovations. Cooper found the board exceeded its authority. He ordered the removal of President Trump’s name from all mentions of the center.

The memo specifies prompt changes to email signatures, letterheads, and documents. Interior and exterior signage and furniture should reflect ‘The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts’ by next Friday. The Kennedy Center did not respond to comment requests.

Further guidance was promised regarding the center’s operations past July 5. Renovations costing $257 million are planned to start then. Cooper acknowledged the need for repairs but noted the court’s role was limited. The board is free to decide closures if they consider their duties wisely.

Earlier, President Trump replaced several board members with his allies. They voted to rename the institution and update the facade. However, legal experts insisted this required Congress’s approval. The change led to canceled artist performances and the National Symphony Orchestra’s executive director’s resignation.