New York-born star Barbra Streisand is taking aim at President Donald Trump over the escalating dispute surrounding the Kennedy Center, accusing him of turning the cultural institution into a battle over his own name and legacy. Streisand even published her rant on her official website while recalling the Kennedy Center’s significance. Her tirade against Trump has gone viral and resulted in fierce debates.
The 84-year-old singer and actress, who was among the recipients of the 2008 Kennedy Center Honors, published a statement on Thursday recalling how meaningful the recognition had been to her and other artists. She said the honor represented something larger than a career achievement, including the importance of art to democratic life.
Streisand then sharply criticized Trump’s efforts to have his name added to the building, as well as his recent comments that the center could potentially be “ripped down” if his administration does not receive recognition for its involvement. “You can easily imagine my indignation at seeing this revered institution become the subject of such a bitter struggle over one man’s name and unchecked ego,” Streisand wrote.
What’s happening to the Kennedy Center?
Trump has repeatedly pushed for his name to appear on the Kennedy Center despite legal challenges. A federal judge has previously ruled that changing the building’s name requires congressional action. The dispute intensified this week after Trump said the center could close or eventually be demolished, while the Kennedy Center board moved forward with a major renovation plan. The facility was also suddenly closed, with officials citing safety concerns and structural deterioration.
On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ordered the Kennedy Center to provide at least 30 days’ notice before making major physical changes, including demolition. The order came after Trump’s comments about potentially tearing the building down and amid an ongoing legal fight over control of the institution.
Hence, Streisand urged Americans to consider what President John F. Kennedy envisioned when the center was created: a place where artists could challenge, inspire, and bring people together. Her statement drew plenty of reactions online, with some users celebrating the intervention. “This is the Streisand effect we actually need!” one commenter wrote.
Another wrote, “When Barbra Streisand, of all people, comes for you over an unchecked ego, where else is there left to go?” Others were less impressed, criticizing Streisand over her views on Israel and arguing that she was focusing on the Kennedy Center while overlooking other issues. One commenter simply responded, “Get in the game Barb!!” Regardless, Streisand concluded by encouraging Americans to reflect on Kennedy’s legacy and exercise their right to vote in the upcoming midterm elections.
