# Protesters form human chain around Kennedy Center

> Activists demand Trump removed as Kennedy Center chairman after threats to demolish memorial
- Title: Protesters form human chain around Kennedy Center | Shortify
- Summary: Activists demand Trump removed as Kennedy Center chairman after threats to demolish memorial Trump threatens to demolish Kennedy Center if his name isn't…
- Keywords: kennedy center, trump, president donald trump, human chain, john f kennedy, federal judge, arts memorial, seattle, nfl, demolition threat, presidential memorial, kennedy center chairman
- Source: ABC7 New York — https://abc7ny.com/story/protesters-plan-form-human-chain-around-kennedy-center-amid-trumps-threats-demolish/19847346
- Published: 2026-09-18T18:34:08+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kennedy center, trump, president donald trump, human chain, john f kennedy, federal judge, arts memorial, seattle, nfl, demolition threat, presidential memorial, kennedy center chairman
## Human chain protest planned
Hundreds of activists gather to form a human chain around Kennedy Center demanding Trump be removed as chairman

> The demonstration opposes the recent sudden closure of the facility, the installation of security fencing, and political efforts to alter or demolish portions of the presidential memorial
## Trump threatens demolition
Trump warned Kennedy Center could be 'ripped down' if his administration doesn't receive recognition for the venue

> I think that the Trump administration should certainly have recognition. Because frankly, if we don't do that, it's going to close. It'll end up being ripped down
## Judge blocks demolition
Federal judge ordered Kennedy Center to provide 30 days' notice before making major physical changes to the building

> The venue cannot install memorials for President Trump or anyone or anything else at the Kennedy Center without Congress's blessing
## Memorial protection fight
Activists argue Kennedy Center must remain a memorial to John F. Kennedy, not renamed for anyone else

> The Kennedy Center can't be renamed for anyone else. It's a memorial to John F Kennedy. It's like silly to suggest otherwise
## Trump's condition for support
Trump claims Kennedy Center is in 'very, very bad shape' requiring government support to stay open

> It's in very very bad shape very dangerous shape you see steel falling down you see plaster falling off ceilings you see a lot of dangers
## Historical context
Trump installed himself as Kennedy Center chairman last year after replacing board members with his own appointees

> Trump installed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center last year after removing its previous leadership and replacing board members with his own appointees
## Legal battle ongoing
Federal judge ruled Trump's name cannot be added to Kennedy Center facade without congressional approval

> The judge earlier this week ruled that Trump's name could not be added to the center's exterior without congressional approval
## Key takeaway

Trump threatens to demolish Kennedy Center if his name isn't added, activists form human chain to protect memorial