Source: In These Times
by Michelle Chen
“The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has long been Washington, D.C.’s premiere stage for the arts and culture — originating with a 1958 act of Congress, at the height of Cold War liberalism, to advance artistic excellence as a symbol of U.S. cultural soft power. But under the second Donald Trump administration, the center has become the backdrop for much harder political conflict …. Since the White House seized control of the center in February, staff members who work on its cultural and educational programming have become increasingly angered and alarmed by mounting signs of managerial chaos, layoffs and political meddling in the historically bipartisan cultural organization. On May 15, Kennedy Center staff announced their intention to form a union with the United Auto Workers, representing more than 172 staff members, in order ‘to ensure the Kennedy Center remains a beacon for bold, uncompromising art and education.'” (05/23/25)
https://inthesetimes.com/article/kennedy-center-trump-takeover-labor-union