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Rhiannon Giddens Cancels Kennedy Center Concert After Trump-Backed Board Takeover
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Rhiannon Giddens has cancelled her upcoming concert at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., citing concerns over the newly appointed board of trustees’ ties to former President Donald Trump.
Giddens, who was scheduled to perform on June 17th as part of the center’s “Arts Fest,” announced the cancellation on social media, stating that she “cannot in good conscience” perform while the organization is led by a board with connections to the Trump administration.
The Kennedy Center recently welcomed seven new trustees, including former Trump advisors and donors. The appointments sparked outrage among some artists and arts professionals, who have expressed concerns over potential conflicts of interest and the center’s commitment to artistic freedom.
Giddens, known for her powerful vocals and genre-bending folk-rock sound, has been a vocal advocate for social justice and environmental activism throughout her career. In a statement on Instagram, she explained that her decision was made with “a heavy heart,” but ultimately comes down to her values as an artist.
“I am deeply troubled by the recent appointments to the Kennedy Center’s board of trustees,” Giddens wrote. “As an artist who has always stood for the power of music to bring people together and uplift marginalized voices, I cannot in good conscience perform at an institution that is now led by individuals with ties to an administration that has consistently sought to suppress those same voices.”
The Kennedy Center has faced backlash from artists and organizations over its handling of the controversy. Many have called for greater transparency and accountability within the organization.
Giddens’ cancellation comes as a blow to fans in Washington D.C., who had been eagerly awaiting her performance. However, the singer-songwriter’s decision serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of artistic integrity and standing up against systemic injustices.
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