The Conversation with Dasha Burns Richard Grenell on Cancel Culture, ‘Normal Gays’ and his friend Melania
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Jun 15, 2025 
Richard Grenell, former Special Envoy to President Trump and current head of the Kennedy Center, shares his thoughts on cancel culture and inclusivity in the arts. He argues that intolerance often comes from the left and discusses the need for the gay community to self-police at Pride events. Grenell also touches on his friendship with Melania Trump, his views on immigration, and a potential run for California Governor. Joining him, political reporter Melanie Mason delves into immigration protests in Los Angeles and Governor Gavin Newsom's response to Trump's military policies.
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Promoting Tolerance at Kennedy Center
- The Kennedy Center aims to be inclusive, welcoming people of all political and cultural backgrounds without protest disruptions.
- Grenell emphasizes tolerance, stating conservatives traditionally avoid interrupting performances, promoting decorum.
Cancel Culture Bias Insight
- Intolerance and cancel culture predominantly come from the left, according to Grenell.
- Republicans generally do not engage in cancel culture or debanking opponents, advocating instead for law enforcement.
Balancing Art and Inclusiveness
- The Kennedy Center supports art that challenges authority while maintaining public appeal and inclusiveness.
- Grenell believes the current shift brings a more tolerant space in the arts, welcoming diverse and common-sense programming.