UJ
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Issa Rae, known for her role in “Insecure,” has decided to cancel an upcoming event scheduled at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts following reports of President Donald Trump’s election as the center’s new chairman.
In an Instagram Story shared Thursday, Rae expressed gratitude towards her supporters for “selling out” her event titled “An Evening with Issa Rae.”
“Regrettably, I feel that my presence at this venue conflicts with the values of an institution that has consistently honored artists from all backgrounds across various media,” Rae stated.
Rae also mentioned that all ticket purchases will be refunded.
Last week, the president revealed a bold initiative to overhaul the center’s board of trustees and alter the direction of the nation’s cultural institution. His actions thrust the Washington, DC-based performing arts complex into the midst of prevailing cultural debates. During his announcement, he highlighted issues with the current programming.
“Just last year, the Kennedy Center hosted Drag Shows aimed at our youth — THIS WILL END,” Trump stated on Truth Social on February 7. “The Kennedy Center is a treasure of America and must showcase the brightest STARS from across our nation. THE BEST IS YET TO COME for the Kennedy Center!”
Listen to Trump’s comments directed at the new Kennedy Center board in audio revealed by Jake Tapper
Rae’s decision follows those of other prominent figures from Hollywood, who have stepped down from their roles in the organization after it was announced that Trump had been elected chairman of the board on Wednesday.
A spokesperson for Shonda Rhimes confirmed to UJ that the “Grey’s Anatomy” creator has decided to “resign from the Kennedy Center board.”
Rhimes acknowledged her departure on Instagram on Wednesday, sharing a post featuring a headline about the news alongside a quote from former US President John F. Kennedy: “If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him.”
Musician Ben Folds, formerly the artistic advisor for the National Symphony Orchestra, also announced on Wednesday his resignation due to “recent developments at the Kennedy Center.”
“Not for me,” he conveyed on social media. “It’s been incredible working for 8 years alongside Kennedy Center President Deb Rutter, fellow artistic advisor Renee Fleming, and the whole NSO team, bringing the joy of symphonic music to countless new audiences.”
Folds expressed that he would miss working with the musicians of the nation’s symphony orchestra, calling them “the best.”
Recently, the Kennedy Center also revealed its new board, which includes several new appointees from Trump after removing trustees who were appointed by Democratic administrations.
