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| Joan Baez on The Left |
Jane Fonda warned Friday that the Trump administration poses a growing threat to free expression, saying Americans are “witnessing censorship, political intimidation, and a growing effort to reshape American history and cultural life through fear and attacks on our First Amendment.”
Fonda made the remarks at an event titled “Artists United for Our Freedom,” hosted by the Committee for the First Amendment outside the Kennedy Center before roughly 100 invited guests on a rainy afternoon. The gathering featured appearances by actor Sam Waterston, poet Rupi Kaur, comedy writer Bess Kalb and singer Joan Baez, who performed and has a long history of activism.
Fonda said recent actions — including book bans and the removal of plaques and monuments — reflect an administration-driven effort to erase uncomfortable parts of history. The White House issued a statement countering the demonstration’s claims, arguing critics have undervalued efforts to reshape the center.
Organizers chose the Kennedy Center intentionally; the institution has been embroiled in controversy during the president’s second term over its name, programming, staffing and renovations, disputes critics say have undermined the cultural landmark. Baez and Fonda, both veteran protesters, framed the event as part of a broader defense of artistic freedom.