With the shock of the Kennedy assassination in November 1963 still hanging over the country, Congress began looking for ways to memorialize the slain President.For many contemplating the matter, the choice was self-evident.Naming the National Cultural Center in his memory, in his honor, seemed perfect.Though construction on the center had still not begun, new President Lyndon Johnson heartily approved of such action and, moreover, wanted the federal government to step in and cover the remaining costs for the building.He sent personal notes to the chairmen of each of the committees dealing with the project.Doing so, he wrote, carried “forward the spirit and concern of John F. Kennedy.”If the government would assume just half of the construction costs, it would ensure the “prompt completion of the Center to which President Kennedy gave his full support.” LBJ’s personal touch with lawmakers would be the pattern throughout his administration as he directly involved himself in issues like this much more than Kennedy had.
Many in Congress welcomed Johnson’s interest and were likewise adamant in their support.A representative from Kennedy’s home state of Massachusetts vowed that “Congress must approve a suitable memorial for the late President and appropriate adequate funds for it.” The legislation to fund the National Cultural Center and name it the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, passed Congress in January 1964 just two months after the assassination.As he signed the bill, Johnson said “the vitality and well-being of the people is closely related to their capacity to always produce a high level of art and to enjoy it, and to appreciate it.”
“The Cookers” is the name of a jazz group today made up of musicians who’ve played with some of the biggest names in jazz over the past few decades.Some of them have been playing since before Johnson signed that bill.They recently cancelled some gigs at the Kennedy Center. In a statement, they echoed some of what Kennedy himself said.“Jazz was born from struggle and from a relentless insistence on freedom: freedom of thought, of expression, and of the full human voice. Some of us have been making this music for many decades, and that history still shapes us.”
Like most musicians, they weren’t keen on cancelling a gig. They said, “To everyone who is disappointed or upset, we understand and share your sadness. We remain committed to playing music that reaches across divisions rather than deepening them.”
John Kennedy himself, whose bronze bust you’ll see in the lobby of the Kennedy Center—unless it’s been moved—couldn’t have said it better.
