The lawyers of the Kennedy Center have ordered the removal of President Donald Trump's name from all official signs within the institution. The step was taken to comply with last week's federal court ruling.
In an email sent to the institution's employees, it was requested to remove the expressions "Trump-Kennedy Center" and "The Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts." Instead, the use of "The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts," "the Kennedy Center," or "the Center" was requested.
It was stated that the instruction is not limited to signs but also covers email signatures, letterheads, brochures, and internet pages. Thus, the aim is to reverse the name change in all official public uses of the institution.
The court ruled that the board of directors exceeded its authority when adding Trump's name to the center. The ruling emphasized that all references to any name other than John F. Kennedy must be removed within 14 days from May 29. Accordingly, the deadline was set as June 12.
Despite the ruling, Trump's name was still seen on the exterior facade of the Kennedy Center on Thursday afternoon. However, a new regulation process was initiated for official correspondence and materials within the institution.
Judge Christopher Cooper also reviewed the decision made in March, which foresaw the center being closed for two years starting in July for a $250 million renovation. Cooper stated that this decision was based on insufficient and one-sided information and that all legal obligations were not considered.
The court did not completely ban the temporary closure of the center. However, it informed the board of directors that proper procedures must be followed when making such a decision.
Trump's interest in the Kennedy Center has been notable since the beginning of his second presidential term. His involvement in the institution's programs and events, including the cancellation of some shows and the announcement of others, has been mentioned. Last August, he also hinted on social media at the possibility of adding his name to the building.