LL Cool J pulled out of the July 4th live performance in Philadelphia to assist placing 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 placing 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 perceive there’s lots occurring in Philadelphia proper now, and I by no means, ever, ever wish to disappoint my followers, particularly Philadelphia, y’all imply an excessive amount of to me,” LL Cool J mentioned. “However there’s completely no means that I can carry out, cross a picket line, and decide up cash after I know that individuals are on the market combating for a residing wage. I’m not doing that, what I’m saying?”

He added that he would nonetheless be on the town, hoping negotiations resolve earlier than the vacation occasion.

“I’m simply letting , I’m not going to cross a picket line and carry out for cash when individuals are harm. That’s it, so I really like y’all. I’m on my method 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 contains sanitation crews and 911 dispatchers, all of which have been placing for 3 days. Town’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 choice to face in solidarity with the labor motion by selecting to not cross a picket line is a robust testomony to his respect for staff’ rights,” Boulware mentioned. “By prioritizing the dignity and respect of laborers over potential fan disappointment, LL Cool J sends a robust message in regards to the worth of unity and collective motion.”

Negotiations between the town and DC 33 stalled Thursday.

Mayor Cherelle Parker mentioned the town’s negotiators had been ready to proceed talks, however union leaders stepped away from the desk. There isn’t any new assembly scheduled.

“I’m conscious that LL Cool J has determined to not carry out at Wawa Welcome America’s July 4th Live performance tomorrow night on the Parkway,” Mayor Parker mentioned in a press release. “I spoke personally with LL Cool J at the moment. I respect his choice and perceive his need to see the town unified. He’s all the time welcome in Philadelphia.”

There was 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 provide 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 widespread folks.

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