Legendary television creator Norman Lear said he will not appear at the Kennedy Center reception held at the White House in December because of President Donald Trump.
“This is a presidency that has chosen to neglect totally the arts and humanities–deliberately defund them– and that doesn’t rest pleasantly with me,” the “All in the Family” producer and Kennedy Center honoree told the New York Times Thursday. (RELATED: Celebrities Are Losing Their Minds Over Trump’s Military Trans Ban)
Another honoree, Gloria Estefan said she will use the opportunity to question the president on his immigration policy.
“Mr. President, as a proud immigrant of this country, it’s very important for me that you see the wonderful contributions we have made,” the Grammy award winner said she will explain to the president. “We have seen a lot of anti-immigrant backlash this year, so for us, it may hold even more beauty than for someone who has lived here all their lives. To get this kind of award is so American.”
Rapper and actor LL Cool J—named as the first hip-hop honoree–said he plans to attend, but won’t make the night about politics.
“I don’t have any stunts planned,” the rapper said. “I’m not saying I need to be there backslapping and all of that, but this time, this one ain’t about him. I’m not going to block my blessings or let the political divide stop me from embracing my art.”