Issa Rae, artists cancel Kennedy Center shows amid Trump takeover

Issa Rae has canceled her sold-out show at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., following President Donald Trump's takeover of the board, which she believes infringes on the institution's core values. In her Instagram announcement, Rae expressed gratitude to her fans and stated that all tickets would be refunded. This decision aligns with a broader backlash from the arts community, as notable figures like Shonda Rhimes and Ben Folds have also resigned from their positions in protest. Rock band Low Cut Connie also canceled their performance scheduled for March 19, criticizing the new board's lack of arts experience and calling for the Kennedy Center to return to its non-partisan roots. Adam Weiner, the band's frontman, emphasized that arts institutions should remain insulated from political influences. The changes at the Kennedy Center have sparked significant concern among artists regarding the future of the venue's commitment to diversity and inclusion.