Thousands join protest outside Kennedy Center, expressing concern that Trump might tear it down

Thousands of people gathered outside the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington on Friday, demonstrating against President Donald Trump's plans to potentially close and demolish the historic building. The protest was part of a broader movement of organizations and individuals who are alarmed that Trump might follow through on his threat.

Participants carried signs and formed a human chain around the Kennedy Center, with some holding hands as they marched through the streets of Foggy Bottom. Chris Raleigh, co-founder of Hands Off the Arts, expressed hope that the event would send a clear message that people are determined to protect the center from Trump's plans.

The Kennedy Center has been a focal point of Trump's vision for Washington since 2025, when he began placing his supporters on its governing board. In late 2025, a judge ruled that Trump's name was illegally added to the center and ordered it removed. Despite this, the Kennedy Center board, aligned with Trump, voted to close the center indefinitely for repairs just hours after a U.S. District Judge blocked Trump's plan to restore his name to the building.

The judge also ordered the Kennedy Center to provide 30 days' notice before making any significant physical changes to the building, including demolition. Raleigh noted concerns that Trump might act without notifying the court, citing the East Wing's sudden appearance of a large hole as an example. Protesters emphasized the importance of the Kennedy Center as a cornerstone of the nation's performing arts scene, highlighting the impact on students and performances at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts.

The event followed a week of legal battles in federal courts, with the administration pushing for Trump's wishes to be carried out.