The dancer and choreographer Carmen de Lavallade, who is among those to be honored by the Kennedy Center in December, announced on Thursday that she would forgo the related reception at the White House. Another honoree, Norman Lear, a television producer known for progressive political activism, had said he would not attend the White House reception before the ceremony where he is to receive an award for lifelong artistic achievement. “Each year, the Kennedy Center honors the careers and achievements of artists who have helped shape cultural life in the United States with a weekend that includes celebrations and events,” the White House statement on Saturday said. “The president and first lady have decided not to participate in this year’s activities to allow the honorees to celebrate without any political distraction. First lady Melania Trump, along with her husband President Donald J. Trump, extend their sincerest congratulations and well wishes to all of this year’s award recipients for their many accomplishments.”

Source: New York Times August 19, 2017 11:38 UTC