Hundreds of activists gathered Friday evening to form a human chain around the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., protesting President Donald Trump's alleged threats to close and demolish the landmark.

The demonstration, organized by the Hands Off the Arts organization, opposes what they describe as President Trump's "attempted takeover" of the presidential memorial and recent actions, including the sudden closure of the facility and the installation of security fencing.

Activists are demanding President Trump be removed as the Kennedy Center's chairman, a position he assumed last year after replacing its previous leadership with his own appointees. The group stated their goal is to reclaim the center from "authoritarian overreach" and protect other arts and cultural institutions.

A federal judge on Thursday ordered that the Kennedy Center must provide 30 days' notice before making any significant physical alterations to the building, including demolition, in response to President Trump's statements.

Earlier this week, President Trump told reporters that the Kennedy Center could be "ripped down" if his administration does not receive "recognition" at the venue, as tensions rise over his name potentially being removed from the center. "I think that the Trump administration should certainly have recognition. Because frankly, if we don't do that, it's going to close. It'll end up being ripped down," the president stated.

The Hands Off the Arts organization has held multiple protests at the venue this year. On their website, the group expressed a desire to see the Kennedy Center restored to its intended purpose as "the nation's cultural center, active with life, joy, and incredible art."

Friday's protest included musical performances, testimonials, and speeches before participants linked hands to encircle the building. The group indicated that the demonstration was also a response to leadership changes at the Kennedy Center in recent months.

Security guards were observed near scaffolding and protective tarping covering parts of the Kennedy Center's facade in mid-September, reflecting ongoing activity and concerns surrounding the venue.