LL Cool J canceled his July 4 efficiency in Philadelphia over town’s ongoing staff’ strike, prompting a response from Mayor Cherelle Parker.

LL Cool J pulled out of Philadelphia’s Wawa Welcome America live performance scheduled for July 4 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, citing assist for placing metropolis staff and refusing to carry out whereas labor negotiations stay unresolved.

The Hip-Hop icon introduced his choice Thursday night time by way of Instagram, simply sooner or later earlier than the occasion, stating that he wouldn’t cross a picket line whereas hundreds of municipal workers continued their walkout for higher pay and advantages.

“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 said in the video.

The strike, led by AFSCME District Council 33, started July 1 and marks Philadelphia’s first main municipal labor stoppage since 1986.

More than 9,000 staff—together with sanitation crews, 911 dispatchers and water division workers—have walked off the job, disrupting important companies throughout town.

Mayor Cherelle Parker responded to LL Cool J’s announcement, expressing appreciation for his stance whereas acknowledging town’s ongoing challenges.

“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. 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,” Parker stated in an announcement.

The strike has already led to trash pileups, delays in morgue operations and heightened tensions between metropolis officers and union leaders. The union leaders rejected town’s provide of an 8% elevate over three years, calling it insufficient given the rising value of dwelling.

LL Cool J added that he nonetheless plans to be in Philadelphia in case a deal is reached.

“I hope that the mayor and the city can make a deal; I hope it works out. I’m still going to come to Philly in case it works out. I’m going to be in town, y’all. I’m just letting you know I’m not going to cross a picket line and perform for money when people are hurt.”

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