Kerry Kennedy: 'It would be a tragedy' if Kennedy Center is demolished

September 19, 2026

A U.S. federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to provide 30 days' notice before demolishing the Kennedy Center, a Washington D.C. performing arts venue named after President John F. Kennedy. The ruling came after President Trump was seen examining a poster aboard Air Force One that appeared to reference demolishing the site, and he subsequently warned the center could be "ripped down.

Who is affected

The Kennedy Center (Washington D.C. performing arts venue)
Kerry Kennedy (niece of President John F. Kennedy)
The Trump administration
Protesters who gathered at the venue
The legacy of President John F. Kennedy

What action is being taken

A U.S. federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration must provide 30 days' notice before any demolition occurs
Protesters are gathering at the Kennedy Center to demonstrate against demolition threats

Why it matters

The Kennedy Center is a significant cultural and performing arts institution named in honor of President John F. Kennedy, making it both a functional venue and a memorial to a late president. Its potential demolition represents not only the loss of an important cultural space but also the destruction of a tribute to a historical figure, which Kerry Kennedy characterized as tragic.

What's next

The Trump administration is required to give 30 days' notice before any demolition of the Kennedy Center can proceed.

Read full article from source: BBC