By Trendsetter Tribune 
In a move that highlights the ongoing rift between the 44th and 47th presidents, Valerie Jarrett, CEO of the Obama Foundation, confirmed this weekend that President Trump has not been invited to the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.
The announcement comes as the Obama Foundation officially set the dates for the center’s multi-day debut, scheduled for June 18–21, 2026.
The “Invitation-Only” Snub
During an interview with MS Now’s “The Weekend” on Saturday, March 7, Jarrett was asked directly by host Jonathan Capehart if Trump would be included in the dedication ceremony, which traditionally features a gathering of living presidents.
- Jarrett’s Explanation: She clarified that the ceremony is intended to celebrate those who were part of Obama’s “political journey.”
“This is really a chance for us to celebrate with the people who joined President Obama on this journey… So, no [he is not invited].” — Valerie Jarrett
- Future Access: Jarrett added a brief olive branch, noting that while Trump is not invited to the private dedication, he would be “delighted” to have him tour the facility once it opens to the public on June 19.
- The “Bush” Contrast: In a pointed comparison, Jarrett noted that former President George W. Bush and his team have been invited and are expected to attend, citing their “supportive” relationship during the 2009 transition and subsequent joint humanitarian efforts.
Grand Opening Schedule
The center, located in Chicago’s Jackson Park, will feature a series of events spanning the Juneteenth holiday weekend:
- June 18: An invitation-only Dedication Ceremony on the John Lewis Plaza, featuring global icons and a livestreamed program.
- June 19 (Juneteenth): The campus and Museum officially open to the public.
- June 20–21: Community celebrations across the 19-acre campus, including live art, music, and food festivals.
A Growing Trend of “Un-Invitations”
The snub by the Obama Foundation follows a similar move by the NAACP, which announced last year that it would break with a century of tradition by not inviting President Trump to its national convention, citing his administration’s policies on civil rights.
The backdrop of the exclusion is further complicated by current events; the opening coincides with Trump’s 80th birthday (June 14) and occurs amidst the high-intensity military operations in the Middle East, which former President Obama has criticized as “Russian roulette with the destiny of millions.”