Applaud the Kennedy Family For Working To Stop Trump's Arch

Nine members of the Kennedy family are taking legal action to protect Arlington National Cemetery from President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot triumphal arch! The family members have asked a federal judge for permission to join lawsuits challenging the massive structure, which would be built near the cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial. They argue that the project would cast shadows over the graves of their loved ones, disrupt historic sight lines, and threaten the solemn character of one of America's most sacred memorial sites.

Among those seeking to join the legal challenge are seven children of the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy, including Rory Kennedy and Maxwell Kennedy. The family has deep ties to Arlington National Cemetery, where President John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Robert F. Kennedy, and Senator Ted Kennedy are buried. The proposed arch would stand more than twice as tall as the Lincoln Memorial and, according to the family, obstruct the historic view from the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame memorial across Arlington Memorial Bridge toward the Lincoln Memorial.

The Kennedy family argues that the Trump administration has failed to follow the laws and procedures Congress established to protect the nation's memorials. Rory and Maxwell Kennedy emphasized that their legal effort is about protecting sacred spaces and preserving the dignity of those buried at Arlington. Their request comes after the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Vietnam War veteran and former Ambassador Michael Lemmon filed lawsuits challenging the project. A federal judge has already temporarily blocked construction, providing an opportunity for the courts to examine the legal objections before work proceeds.

Add your name to recognize the Kennedy family's efforts to protect Arlington National Cemetery, preserve the historic Kennedy gravesites and memorial views, and ensure that proposed construction near America's national memorials follows established laws and preservation safeguards!

(Photo Source: Jen Golbeck/AP)