Comedienne and actress Issa Rae has canceled her sold out event at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC after President Donald Trump named himself as chairman.
“Unfortunately, due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I’ve decided to cancel my appearance at this venue,” Rae wrote on Instagram.
Rae is among Democratic celebrities who resigned from their positions or canceled planned events at the Kennedy Center.
Television producer Shonda Rhimes (Grey’s Anatomy) and musician Ben Folds resigned from their positions as advisors at the Kennedy Center.
Renowned soprano Renée Fleming, who had served as an artistic adviser at large, also resigned.
In early February, President Trump fired Kennedy Center board members appointed by former President Joe Biden. Trump said he terminated them because they “do not share” his vision.
Kennedy Center board members previously approved LGBTQ+ events such as Drag Queen Story Hour for children. LGBTQ+ events in federal buildings are in violation of Trump’s anti-DEI executive order that he signed on his first day in office.
Trump replaced the board members with White House officials, administration insiders and wealthy donors who are loyal to him. On Wednesday, the new board appointed Trump as chairman.
“It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees,” Trump said in a statement. “We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!”
