Democratic Senators Host Private Pride Event at Kennedy Center Amid Trump Backlash

In a direct challenge to President Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center and his cancellation of Pride Month events, five Democratic Senators hosted a private Pride celebration titled "Love is Love" at the Kennedy Center's Justice Forum. The event, produced by Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller, featured performances by the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington DC and notable Broadway stars, celebrating LGBTQ culture and resilience. The senators, including John Hickenlooper, Tammy Baldwin, Elizabeth Warren, Jacky Rosen, and Brian Schatz, described the show as a form of protest and political statement against the administration's dismantling of diverse programming. Although the Kennedy Center was not involved in programming the event and was reportedly misled about the nature of the booking, the senators emphasized the importance of continuing to fight for equality and freedom of expression. Kennedy Center President Richard Grenell criticized the event as a "political stunt," highlighting the ongoing tension between the Trump administration's cultural policies and LGBTQ advocates. The event underscored the resolve of the LGBTQ community and their allies to maintain visibility and resist the administration’s efforts to suppress inclusive arts programming.