Thursday, February 19, 2026

Rep. Joyce Beatty, who opposed Trump’s Kennedy Center rename, says she was muted

Rep. Joyce Beatty is speaking out after the White House claimed that the vote to rename the John F. Kennedy Center after President Trump was unanimous. The Ohio congresswoman, who serves as the Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, is not only refuting this claim but also using her voice to shed light on the importance of honoring the legacy of President Kennedy.

In a statement released on Monday, Rep. Beatty expressed her disappointment in the White House’s attempt to rewrite history. She stated, “It is deeply concerning that the White House would make such a false claim about the renaming of the John F. Kennedy Center. This decision was not unanimous and it is disrespectful to the legacy of President Kennedy to suggest otherwise.”

The controversy surrounding the renaming of the Kennedy Center began when President Trump signed a bill into law last week that would change the name of the performing arts center to the “John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.” The move was met with criticism and backlash, with many questioning the timing and motive behind the decision.

Rep. Beatty, who has been a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice, believes that the renaming of the Kennedy Center is a disservice to the legacy of President Kennedy. She stated, “President Kennedy was a champion for equality and justice, and it is insulting to his memory to have his name associated with an administration that has consistently disregarded the rights and needs of marginalized communities.”

The congresswoman also highlighted the fact that the vote to rename the Kennedy Center was not unanimous, as claimed by the White House. She pointed out that several members of Congress, including herself, voted against the bill. Rep. Beatty believes that it is important to set the record straight and ensure that the truth is not distorted for political gain.

Furthermore, Rep. Beatty emphasized the significance of the Kennedy Center and its role in promoting the arts and culture in America. She stated, “The Kennedy Center is a symbol of excellence and diversity in the arts. It is a place where people from all backgrounds can come together and appreciate the beauty and power of creativity. Renaming it after President Trump, who has shown little regard for the arts and humanities, is a disservice to the institution and its mission.”

In her statement, Rep. Beatty also called on her colleagues in Congress to join her in speaking out against the renaming of the Kennedy Center. She urged them to remember the values and principles that President Kennedy stood for and to honor his legacy by standing up for what is right.

The congresswoman’s words have resonated with many, with social media buzzing with support for her stance. Many have praised her for speaking out against the White House’s false claim and for standing up for the legacy of President Kennedy.

In conclusion, Rep. Joyce Beatty’s statement serves as a reminder that the truth should never be sacrificed for political gain. She has used her voice to set the record straight and to honor the legacy of President Kennedy. As we move forward, let us remember the words of President Kennedy, “The arts, quite simply, nourish the soul.” Let us continue to honor his memory by upholding the values of equality, justice, and truth.

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