President Trump Absent At Kennedy Awards Honouring Lionel Richie, LL Cool J

Some of the biggest names in music have been honoured by the Kennedy Center on Sunday, December 3, in an awards ceremony the President of the United States Donald Tump purposefully missed.

The White House said in August that Donald Trump and his wife wouldn’t attend the show to avoid any “political distraction”, after threats of a boycott.

Traditionally, attendees are treated to a reception with the President and First Lady.

Celebrated singers Lionel Richie and Gloria Estefan, rapper LL Cool J, television producer Norman Lear and dancer Carmen de Lavallade were all honoured for their contribution to the arts.

Estefan, 60, who was born in Havana, Cuba, said she was thankful Trump chose not to attend. She said,

“I really appreciate that the President had the thought to let us shine on this night and avoid the controversy.”

Richie was humbled by the award.

“This is from America. This is actually America saying, we’re very proud of your contribution. And we want to show you how proud we are of you. That says a lot”.

***Reuters