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The Kennedy Center has announced the cancellation of numerous Pride events that were set to occur this summer as part of the WorldPride festival in Washington, D.C., aimed at honoring LGBTQ+ rights.
According to a report from The Associated Press, various stakeholders, including artists and producers, indicated that their events had been unexpectedly canceled or relocated to different venues.
June Crenshaw, deputy director of the Capital Pride Alliance in Washington, expressed disappointment over the situation, stating, “We are a resilient community, and we have found other avenues to celebrate. We are finding another path to the celebration … but the fact that we have to maneuver in this way is disappointing.”
No immediate response was received from the Kennedy Center regarding these cancellations.
The events were part of a week-long Tapestry of Pride celebration, which the Kennedy Center’s website described as “a celebration of diversity and unity, weaving together performances, exhibitions, and experiences for all ages.”
This cancellation follows Donald Trump’s removal of several board members and his assumption of the chairmanship of the Kennedy Center.
The Kennedy Center stated, “Throughout our history, we have enjoyed strong support from members of Congress and their staffs—Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. Since our inception in 1971, we have maintained a collaborative relationship with every presidential administration, with a bi-partisan board of trustees that has consistently endorsed the arts in a non-partisan manner.”
Trump commented on this transition on Truth Social, asserting that “at my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., GREAT AGAIN. I have decided to immediately terminate multiple individuals from the Board of Trustees, including the Chairman, who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture.”
He further criticized the Kennedy Center’s previous support for drag shows aimed at youth, claiming, “This WILL STOP,” while attempting to draw inappropriate associations between such performances and pedophilia. Trump emphasized the importance of showcasing America’s best talent, asserting that “the Kennedy Center is an American Jewel, and must reflect the brightest STARS on its stage from all across our Nation. For the Kennedy Center, THE BEST IS YET TO COME!”
The World Pride event is scheduled to take place from May 17 to June 8, featuring various celebrations throughout Washington, D.C.
Source
www.thewrap.com