And that's why we're making sure that America strengthens its arts. So let's never forget that art strengthens America. In days of hardship, they renew our hope that brighter days are still ahead. In moments of division or doubt, they compel us to see the common values that we share the ideals to which we aspire, even if we sometimes fall short. In times of plenty, they challenge our conscience and implore us to remember the least among us. In times of war and sacrifice, the arts - and these artists - remind us to sing and to laugh and to live. They are also living reminders of a simple truth - and I'm going to steal a line from Michelle here - the arts are not somehow apart from our national life, the arts are at the heart of our national life. (Applause.) As well as president Michael Kaiser and all those who sustain President Kennedy's vision of a 'great stage' celebrating 'the best coming from this country and abroad.'

(Applause.)Īnd I want to also thank Stephen Schwarzman and the Kennedy Center trustees. I especially want to thank the man who created these Honors more than three decades ago and who has produced them ever since - and whom I was proud to name as co-chair of the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities - George Stevens, Jr. (Applause.) And my spectacular First Lady is here, as well. (Applause.) You've got Martin Scorsese - he knows a little bit about film-making. (Applause.) I see sprinkled through the crowd some pretty fancy company, as well - you've got the Queen of Soul. We are joined by Speaker Nancy Pelosi - (applause) - members of Congress and members of the Kennedy family.

THE PRESIDENT: Yes! (Laughter.) And today, it is our great joy to continue a White House holiday tradition - a celebration of performers who have transformed the arts in America, our extraordinary Kennedy Center Honorees. This a season of joy, tradition and celebration. On behalf of Michelle and myself, welcome to the White House. Remarks by the President at Reception for Kennedy Center Honorees

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