LL Cool J, Jazmine Sullivan pull out of performing at Wawa Welcome America concert due to Philadelphia strike
LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan have both announced they will not be performing at the Wawa Welcome America Fourth of July Concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Friday due to the ongoing strike.
LL Cool J announced Thursday he won't "cross a picket line" amid the ongoing strike in Philadelphia involving the city's largest municipal workers' union.
"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 said in a post on Instagram on Thursday night. "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? I've been coming to Philly my whole life, you know? I have respect for the city, you know what I'm saying? Of course, I hope, I hope, 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 hurting. That's it, so I love y'all. I'm on my way to Philly. Peace and love."
LL Cool J was a headliner for the annual event along the Parkway with Philadelphia native Jazmine Sullivan.
On Friday afternoon, Sullivan shared on her Instagram story that she was also not going to perform at the Fourth of July concert and was choosing to "stand with Philly's DC33."
Philadelphia's largest blue-collar union, AFSCME District Council 33, has been on strike for four days as trash continues to pile up around the city. The union represents trash collectors, police dispatchers and more. Union leaders are fighting for higher wages as well as health care benefits for all members.
"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," DC 33 President Greg Boulware wrote in a statement. "His actions highlight the importance of supporting those who strive for fair treatment and better working conditions. 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. 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. LL Cool J truly is the G.O.A.T.!"
After the news that Sullivan also pulled out of the Fourth of July performance in solidarity with the union, Boulware said he was "profoundly humbled" by the singer's decision.
"It's truly refreshing to witness a celebrity of her stature and a native Philadelphian recognizing and valuing the tireless dedication of municipal workers," the union president's statement read in part.
Negotiations between DC 33 and the city paused on Thursday. Mayor Cherelle Parker said the city's negotiating team was willing to meet with DC 33, but union leadership declined. As of Thursday night, there was no scheduled time to return to the negotiating table.
"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," Parker said in a statement. "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."
"We respect LL COOL J's decision not to perform at the July 4th Concert," representatives for Wawa Welcome America previously said in a statement. "As always, for any changes and real time updates follow us on social @july4thphilly."
Parker issued a statement online Friday saying she also understands Sullivan's decision not to perform and that the city still loves her.
"Jazmine Sullivan has decided not to perform at WAWA Welcome America's July 4th Concert tonight on the Parkway," the mayor's statement read in part. "I respect Jazmine's decision, and understand her desire to see our City unified. I feel exactly the same – our mission every day is 'One Philly, a United City'. Jazmine, your hometown loves you!"
Parker encouraged people to still attend the concert, which has been dubbed the "Party on the Parkway."
On Friday, Wawa Welcome America said the following acts are still set to perform for the big July Fourth bash: Álvaro Díaz, JoJo, as well as Mr. HOLLYWOOD DJ and DJ Ghost & Friends.
Gates to the concert and fireworks spectacular are set to open at 4 p.m. The fireworks show will launch after dark, following the concert at around 9 p.m.
