LL Cool J withdraws from the July 4 concert in Philadelphia to support compelling municipal workers and refuses to perform in an active labor dispute.
allhiphop.com
Since 1998, Allhiphop.com has pioneered hip-hop news. Get our daily email for exclusive news and weekly digestion, all curated for true hip-hop enthusiasts. Stay connected and learn about the heartbeat of hip-hop culture. Subscribe now!
subscription
LL Cool J has canceled his headline performance at Wawa Welcome America at Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The rap legend said he was united with the compelling municipal workers who had been on the pickets for higher wages and better health care.
Hip-hop idol made his position clear in an emotional Instagram video less than 24 hours ago on Thursday night. He plans to perform with R&B star and Philadelphia man Jazmine Sullivan.
“Yo, I know a lot is going on in Philadelphia right now, and I never wanted to get my fans, especially Philadelphia, you guys mean a lot to me,” LL Cool J said. “But when I know people are fighting for living wages there, I absolutely can’t perform, go over the pickets and pick up money. I’m not doing that, do you know what I’m talking about?”
He added that he will still be in town and hopes to negotiate before the holidays.
“I just let you know that when people get hurt, I’m not going to go over a picket and perform for money. That’s it, I love you guys. I’m all going to Philadelphia. Peace and love.”
AFSCME District Council 33 is the largest alliance in Philadelphia, representing more than 10,000 blue-collar city workers. This includes sanitation crew and 911 dispatchers, all of which have been shocked for three days. The city’s garbage is still not collected, the 911 emergency is unattended, and tensions are growing between union leaders and city officials.
Union President Gregory Boulware praised LL’s support in a written statement.
“The decision of LL Cool J to not cross the pickets to decide on a solidarity with the labor movement is a testament to his respect for workers’ rights,” Boulware said. “By prioritizing the dignity and respect of workers rather than potential fan disappointment, LL Cool J conveys a strong message about the value of solidarity and collective action.”
Negotiations between the city and DC 33 were stagnant on Thursday.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said the city’s negotiators were ready to continue negotiations, but union leaders stepped down from the table. No new meetings were scheduled.
“I know LL Cool J has decided not to be at Wawa Welcome America at the July 4 concert at Wawa Welcome America tomorrow night at Wawa Welcome on the Road,” Mayor Parker said in a statement. “I spoke with LL Cool J today. I respect his decision and understand his desire to see the city unity. He is always welcome in Philadelphia.”
There is no revelation of change in the concert, or Jazmine Sullivan will be the only performer.
Philadelphia was one of the first cities to get LL Cool J to shoot at the beginning of her rap career. He refused to take the stage to commend his deep respect for ordinary people.
View this post on Instagram
