The Ongoing Debate Surrounding Presidential Memorials and the Kennedy Center Renaming
On Monday, February 16, 2026, a recent episode of The Excerpt podcast sparked a national conversation regarding the proposed renaming of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to include Donald Trump. This contentious suggestion has ignited a broader debate about the significance of presidential memorials and what they represent to the American public. The discussion, particularly relevant during Presidents Day, delves into the complexities of honoring past leaders and the evolving understanding of their legacies. The Excerpt podcast, featuring a range of topics from true crime to in-depth interviews, provides a platform for exploring these critical issues.
Understanding the Creation of Presidential Memorials
The current controversy surrounding the Kennedy Center has prompted a deeper examination of how presidential memorials originate. Dana Taylor, host of The Excerpt, initiated a conversation with James E. Young, a renowned expert on memory and memorials, to unpack this process. Young, Professor Emeritus of English and Judaic & Near Eastern Studies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, explained that the creation of these memorials is a fluid process, blending tradition, legal frameworks, and often, the desires of families. He noted that while customs and protocols exist, the process is rarely straightforward.
Historically, families have played a significant role in initiating memorial projects, as exemplified by Ulysses S. Grant’s widow’s efforts to establish Grant’s Tomb in New York City. Furthermore, presidents themselves have occasionally expressed preferences regarding the design and nature of their future memorials, as demonstrated by Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s specific instructions for a simple, unadorned block of stone. This highlights the intricate interplay between personal wishes, public sentiment, and formal processes in shaping the landscape of presidential remembrance.
The Kennedy Center Controversy: A Challenge to Tradition
The proposed addition of Donald Trump’s name to the Kennedy Center has presented an unprecedented challenge to established memorial practices. While renaming the center required a law initially, the current attempt to add Trump’s name appears to be occurring without similar legislative action, raising questions about the legitimacy of the move. James E. Young emphasized that such a change typically necessitates congressional approval, underscoring the unusual nature of the situation. He further pointed out the irony of this proposal, given Trump’s administration’s policies regarding funding for the arts, which contrasted sharply with John F. Kennedy’s and Jackie Kennedy’s strong support for artistic endeavors.
Living Memorials and the Enduring Legacy of JFK
The Kennedy Center functions as a "living memorial," a concept Young elaborated on during the podcast. These memorials are not static monuments but vibrant spaces where life and culture continue to flourish. The center embodies this principle, serving as a testament to JFK’s and Jackie Kennedy’s dedication to the arts and a place where artistic expression thrives. Following the tragic assassination of JFK, the center provided a vital space for national healing and remembrance, offering a platform for artistic expression and a sense of continuity in a time of profound loss.
Evolving Perspectives on Presidential Memorials Through History
Throughout history, presidential memorials have evolved, with some, like those honoring Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson, taking decades to materialize and often sparking considerable debate. Young suggests that these lengthy timelines and controversies are a natural part of the memorialization process. He advocates for a deeper understanding of the historical context and debates surrounding these memorials, arguing that restoring their origins can revitalize them and make them relevant to subsequent generations.
The Case of John Adams and the Future of Memorialization
Despite his significant contributions to the nation, John Adams remains one of the few presidents without a major national memorial. Young believes that Adams will eventually receive such recognition, suggesting that the understanding and appreciation of historical figures evolve over time. He anticipates that a memorial to Adams may emerge in the near future, potentially during the next presidential administration, as the nation continues to re-evaluate its historical narratives.
The Lincoln Memorial: A Backdrop for Transformative Moments
The Lincoln Memorial stands as a powerful example of a living memorial, having served as a backdrop for pivotal moments in American history, most notably the 1963 March on Washington. Young highlighted the memorial’s unique atmosphere of quietude and solemnity, enhanced by the presence of the Emancipation Proclamation, which contributes to its enduring significance. He emphasized that the memorial’s ability to inspire reflection and serve as a stage for transformative events underscores its lasting power.
Navigating Contemporary Conversations About Monuments and Memorials
In an era marked by ongoing reevaluations of monuments and memorials, Young stressed the importance of understanding the historical context and motivations behind their creation. He advocates for open dialogue and a willingness to acknowledge both the positive and negative aspects of the figures being commemorated. He believes that memorials should serve as platforms for ongoing conversations between the past and the present, fostering a deeper understanding of American history and its complexities.
The Importance of Remembering and the Pursuit of Justice
Ultimately, Young argues that remembering both the triumphs and the tragedies of the past is essential for understanding the present and shaping the future. He highlighted the National Memorial to Justice and Peace in Montgomery, Alabama, as a model for contemporary memorialization, emphasizing its focus on accountability and justice. He believes that this approach, inspired by the work of Bryan Stevenson and the Equal Justice Initiative, represents a significant shift in the way the nation commemorates its history.
As future generations grapple with the legacies of contemporary presidents, including George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Donald Trump, the process of memorialization will undoubtedly continue to evolve, reflecting changing values and perspectives.
