LL Cool J Withdraws from Philadelphia’s Fourth of July Festival in Solidarity with Striking Workers
Hip-hop icon LL Cool J has announced his withdrawal from a Philadelphia Fourth of July festival, expressing support for municipal workers engaged in an ongoing strike in the city.
In a video shared on X, he stated, “There’s absolutely no way that I could perform, cross a picket line and pick up money when I know that people are out there fighting for a living wage.” His decision was made public just a day prior to the Wawa Welcome America Festival, where he was set to headline alongside Grammy award-winning artist Jazmine Sullivan.
LL Cool J expressed hope that “the city can make a deal” and mentioned his intention to visit Philadelphia if a resolution is reached.
The strike, led by District Council 33 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, commenced at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday after failed negotiations for a higher-paying contract. Union members provide crucial public services, including 911 dispatch and sanitation.
In response to LL Cool J’s actions, the union acknowledged his influential stance on social media, highlighting the importance of using his platform to advocate for everyday issues.
“LL Cool J’s choice to stand in solidarity with the labor movement by refusing to cross a picket line is a significant endorsement of workers’ rights,” the union stated.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker remarked that she had communicated directly with LL Cool J regarding his decision. “I respect his choice and understand his desire for unity in the city. He is always welcome in Philadelphia,” she noted in a statement.
Shortly before her scheduled performance, Sullivan also declared that she would not participate in the festival as a show of support for the union. “Today I choose to not perform at the Wawa Welcome America concert and stand with Philly’s DC33 until the city and union find a way to bring fair living wages to our working class,” she announced on Instagram.
Parker confirmed Sullivan’s decision, saying, “I respect Jazmine’s decision and understand her desire to see our city unified,” adding her appreciation, “Jazmine, your hometown loves you!”
Greg Boulware, the union president, expressed deep gratitude for Sullivan’s stance. “It’s truly refreshing to see a celebrity of her prominence and a Philadelphia native recognize the tireless dedication of municipal workers,” he said in a statement.
Wawa Welcome America is recognized as one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the United States. A representative for the festival has yet to respond to inquiries.
On July 1, following three injunctions granted to the city of Philadelphia, a judge ordered certain union members to resume work. In response, the union advised those affected to “comply with this directive immediately to avoid any legal consequences.”
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