Chairman Charles A. Gonzalez (TX 20) released the following statement regarding Kennedy Center President Michael Kaiser’s response to criticism by National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts Chairman Felix Sanchez. Mr. Sanchez has been working to increase the number of Hispanics recognized by the Kennedy Center Honors.
“Mr. Kaiser’s language was a shocking, intemperate and inappropriate response to a genuine request by Mr. Sanchez, who was merely pointing out a concern, shared by many, about the lack of Hispanic award recipients.
“It shows a profound disrespect for Mr. Sanchez and makes it more difficult to come to an understanding about including Latinos in one of our country’s highest cultural honors. This issue merits a civil and professional response, which we continue to await.”
