A massive group of demonstrators gathered outside the Kennedy Center in Washington on Sept. 19, linking hands to block President Donald Trump's efforts to shutter and dismantle the performing arts venue. The "Hands off the Arts" gathering drew thousands of people who described the institution as the pinnacle of American performing arts while opposing the administration's threats to tear down the structure.

The building remains closed to the public after a Trump-appointed board cited structural deterioration and safety risks as justification for the shutdown. Judge Christopher Cooper ordered the government to provide 30 days' notice before any demolition or building changes occur, following reports that Trump was reviewing demolition plans. The ongoing dispute includes a legal fight over renaming the venue and the layoff of about 12 employees on Sept. 19.