PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — LL Cool J says he won’t be performing at Philadelphia’s 4th of July celebration concert as long as the strike is ongoing with District Council 33, the city’s largest blue-collar workers’ union.
“I never ever want to disappoint my fans, and especially in Philadelphia. Ya’ll mean too much to me, but there’s absolutely no way that I could perform, cross a picking line and pick up money when I know that people are out there fighting for a living wage,” he said in an Instagram post Thursday night.
LL Cool J was slated to headline the Wawa Welcome America concert, along with Jazmine Sullivan.
“I’m going to be in town, y’all, but I’m just letting you know, I’m not going to cross a picket line and perform for money when people are hurting,” the hip-hop legend added.
District Council 33 President Greg Boulware applauded the decision.
“His support underscores the significance of the labor movement and its ongoing fight for justice and equity. We are grateful for his exemplary stance and the impact it has on raising awareness and fostering respect for working people everywhere,” said Boulware in a statement.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said she spoke personally with LL Cool J about dropping out of the concert. “I respect his decision, and understand his desire to see the city unified. He is always welcome in Philadelphia,” she said in a statement.
Negotiations with DC 33 and the City of Philadelphia have been stalled since the strike began at midnight Tuesday.
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The latest round of talks began Wednesday but ended overnight without a deal. There’s no word on when discussions will resume.
DC 33 is made up of roughly 9,000 workers who provide services like street repair and trash pickup. Their membership also includes some airport workers, members of the Water Dept. and 911 dispatchers.
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