LL Cool J pulled out of the July 4th live performance in Philadelphia to assist putting municipal staff, refusing to carry out throughout an energetic labor dispute.

LL Cool J has canceled his headlining efficiency on the Wawa Welcome America July 4th live performance on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The rap legend mentioned he stood in solidarity with putting municipal staff who’ve taken to the picket line to demand larger wages and higher healthcare.

The Hip-Hop icon made his stance clear in an emotional Instagram video Thursday evening, lower than 24 hours earlier than the present. He was slated to carry out 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 mentioned. “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 nonetheless be on the town, hoping negotiations resolve earlier than the vacation occasion.

“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 greater than 10,000 blue-collar metropolis staff. This consists of sanitation crews and 911 dispatchers, all of which have been putting for 3 days. The metropolis’s trash stays uncollected, 911 emergencies unattended and tensions between union management and metropolis officers grows.

Union President Gregory Boulware applauded LL’s assist in a written assertion.

“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 mentioned. “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 town and DC 33 stalled Thursday.

Mayor Cherelle Parker mentioned town’s negotiators have been ready to proceed talks, however union leaders stepped away from the desk. There isn’t any new assembly 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 mentioned in a press release. “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 modifications within the live performance or if Jazmine Sullivan would be the sole performer.

Philly was one of many first cities to offer LL Cool J a shot on the onset of his rap profession. His refusal to take the stage acknowledges the profound respect he has for the frequent individuals.

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