LL Cool J has canceled his headlining performance at the Wawa Welcome America July 4th concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The rap legend said he stood in solidarity with striking municipal workers who have taken to the picket line to demand higher wages and better healthcare.
The Hip-Hop icon made his stance clear in an emotional Instagram video Thursday night, less than 24 hours before the show. He was slated to perform alongside R&B star and Philadelphia native Jazmine Sullivan.
“Yo, so, I understand there’s a lot going on in Philadelphia right now, and I never, ever, ever want to disappoint my fans, especially Philadelphia, y’all mean too much to me,” LL Cool J said. “But there’s absolutely no way that I can perform, cross a picket line, and pick up money when I know that people are out there fighting for a living wage. I’m not doing that, you know what I’m saying?”
He added that he would still be in town, hoping negotiations resolve before the holiday event.
“I’m just letting you know, I’m not going to cross a picket line and perform for money when people are hurt. That’s it, so I love y’all. I’m on my way to Philly. Peace and love.”
AFSCME District Council 33 is Philadelphia’s largest union and represents more than 10,000 blue-collar city workers. This includes sanitation crews and 911 dispatchers, all of which have been striking for three days. The city’s trash remains uncollected, 911 emergencies unattended and tensions between union leadership and city officials grows.
Union President Gregory Boulware applauded LL’s support in a written statement.
“LL Cool J’s decision to stand in solidarity with the labor movement by choosing not to cross a picket line is a powerful testament to his respect for workers’ rights,” Boulware said. “By prioritizing the dignity and respect of laborers over potential fan disappointment, LL Cool J sends a strong message about the value of unity and collective action.”
Negotiations between the city and DC 33 stalled Thursday.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said the city’s negotiators were prepared to continue talks, but union leaders stepped away from the table. There is no new meeting scheduled.
“I am aware that LL Cool J has decided not to perform at Wawa Welcome America’s July 4th Concert tomorrow evening on the Parkway,” Mayor Parker said in a statement. “I spoke personally with LL Cool J today. I respect his decision and understand his desire to see the city unified. He is always welcome in Philadelphia.”
There has been no revelation of changes in the concert or if Jazmine Sullivan will be the sole performer.
Philly was one of the first cities to give LL Cool J a shot at the onset of his rap career. His refusal to take the stage recognizes the profound respect he has for the common people.
AllHipHop
