Hundreds of demonstrators gathered Friday evening outside the Kennedy Center to protest President Trump's efforts to close and remake the institution. Protesters formed a human chain around the building, singing and playing music as the sun set. The rally was spurred by images of Trump reviewing a poster board reading "Kennedy Center DEMOLISHED" while aboard Air Force One.

Demonstrators dismissed the demolition plans as publicity stunts, though the images were incorporated into a pending lawsuit. Organizers celebrated a previous court victory removing Trump's name from the center. Lynda Carter and DC Councilmember Robert White attended the rally.

White vowed to fight aggressively, stating, "I plan that I will keep fighting, I will keep screaming, and I will throw some punches if need be." The crowd chanted and cheered in defiance of the board's recent closure vote. The center remains temporarily closed after plaster fell from the ceiling, raising safety concerns. Performing artists, including the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, D.

C., had concerts canceled amid Trump's programming reshaping efforts. The Rapid Response Choir also participated in the protest.