Issa Rae has pulled the plug on her much-hyped “An Evening With Issa Rae” at the Kennedy Center, citing concerns over Donald Trump’s recent ascent to the chairman’s seat. The cancellation throws a spotlight on the growing unease within the arts community regarding the former president’s influence on cultural institutions.
Rae, known for her sharp wit and socially conscious storytelling in HBO’s Insecure and films like The Photograph, announced her decision via Instagram. She voiced fears that Trump’s leadership could undermine the Kennedy Center’s commitment to celebrating artists “of all backgrounds,” promising ticket holders a full refund. The Kennedy Center’s website has since scrubbed the event, solidifying the cancellation.
The exit ripples beyond a single show. Rae’s move follows the resignations of key figures like Shonda Rhimes (treasurer), Ben Folds (National Symphony Orchestra artistic advisor), and Renée Fleming (artistic advisor at large). These departures underscore a deeper sense of crisis within the Kennedy Center, traditionally seen as a non-partisan stage for artistic excellence.
The spark? Trump’s replacement of Biden-appointed board members, effectively stacking the deck for his own chairmanship. This power play has been interpreted by many as a threat to the Kennedy Center’s long-standing commitment to inclusivity and artistic freedom. The center, established in 1964 as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, has long strived to bridge political divides through the arts. Trump’s appointment raises questions about the future of this mission. Will the Kennedy Center remain a welcoming space for diverse voices, or will it become another battleground in the ongoing culture wars?
