The Kennedy Center’s shift in focus to showcasing pro-faith and pro-family stories has been widely praised by conservative leaders, marking a significant cultural change in America. This move, which includes hosting the premiere of the Christian documentary ‘The Revival Generation,’ is viewed as part of a broader trend of increased influence of religious and conservative values in cultural institutions.
President Donald Trump’s role in this transformation is significant. He appointed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center in February, replacing some of the previous board members with individuals aligned with his vision for a ‘Golden Age in Arts and Culture.’ This change included appointing his envoy for special missions, Ric Grenell, as head of the Kennedy Center, who has emphasized the importance of faith-based content in the arts.
The premiere of ‘The Revival Generation’ at the Kennedy Center, attended by prominent conservative figures like Dr. Ben Carson and Dr. Alveda King, highlights the perceived cultural impact of the film. The documentary covers the growth of a Christian revival movement among U.S. college students, which began as a small group on Auburn University’s campus and expanded nationwide. The film’s prominence at the Kennedy Center is seen as a significant milestone in the cultural landscape, reflecting a shift in focus towards faith-based narratives.
Experts and leaders in the conservative community, including Ralph Reed of the Faith & Freedom Coalition, have noted the unprecedented nature of this cultural shift. They commend the efforts of Trump and Grenell in promoting faith-based content at the Kennedy Center, viewing it as a major step in aligning cultural institutions with conservative values in American society.