Architecture Groups File Suit Against Trump, Kennedy Center Board
Eight cultural organizations are suing to stop renovations at the Kennedy Center. They demand compliance with preservation laws before proceeding.
A coalition of eight architecture and cultural organizations has initiated a federal lawsuit against President Trump and the board of the Kennedy Center, aiming to prevent upcoming renovations set to commence in just over three months.
The legal action was filed on Monday in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. The organizations involved include the American Institute of Architects, the American Society of Landscape Architects, the Committee of 100 on the Federal City, the Cultural Landscape Foundation, the DC Preservation League, Docomomo US, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, representing more than 1 million members combined.
In a statement to NPR, White House spokesperson Liz Huston remarked, "President Trump is committed to making the Trump-Kennedy Center the finest performing arts facility in the world. We look forward to ultimate victory on the issue." NPR also sought comments from the Kennedy Center but did not receive any response.
The lawsuit asserts that the Kennedy Center, established in 1971 as a living memorial to a slain president and a prominent cultural institution, represents a significant legacy in history, architecture, and civic engagement. The groups contend that under President Trump’s leadership, the board intends to make substantial changes to this iconic property without adhering to essential federal historic preservation and environmental laws or obtaining necessary Congressional authorization.
They reference the demolition of the East Wing of the White House last October as evidence of Trump's approach to altering Washington's landscape, along with his remarks about a “complete rebuilding” of the Kennedy Center.
Last Monday, the Kennedy Center’s board voted to close the venue for two years of renovations, scheduled to begin shortly after the July 4 celebrations. This decision followed a press conference where Trump, alongside the board and prominent allies, indicated that the vote was somewhat delayed since the announcement had already been made.
Details regarding the architectural plans for the renovation have not been disclosed. Trump has frequently claimed that experts have been consulted in the planning process. Despite repeated requests from NPR for information on the project, including aspects related to bidding, financing, and the experts involved, the Kennedy Center has chosen not to respond.