LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan Withdraw from Wawa Welcome America Concert in Support of Striking Workers

LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan Withdraw from Wawa Welcome America Concert Amid Strike

In a significant display of solidarity, both LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan have announced they will not perform at the Wawa Welcome America Fourth of July concert, scheduled to take place along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Their decision stems from an ongoing strike by the city’s largest municipal workers’ union.

LL Cool J Speaks Out

LL Cool J, a well-known hip-hop artist and actor, made his announcement via a heartfelt Instagram post. He expressed his understanding of the current situation in Philadelphia, stating, “I never, ever want to disappoint my fans, especially Philadelphia, y’all mean too much to me.” He emphasized his commitment to supporting workers, explaining, “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.”

He shared his hopes for a resolution between the city officials and the striking workers, affirming, “I’m still going to come to Philly in case it works out… 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.”

Jazmine Sullivan Joins the Cause

Adding to this powerful statement, Philadelphia native Jazmine Sullivan also declared her absence from the concert, stating her support for the striking workers of DC33 union. She posted on her Instagram story that she chooses to “stand with Philly’s DC33,” echoing LL Cool J’s sentiments about worker rights.

The On-going Strike

The AFSCME District Council 33 (DC33), Philadelphia’s largest blue-collar union, has entered its fourth day of striking, with the city’s trash collection services affected. The union, representing essential workers like trash collectors and police dispatchers, is demanding improved wages and better health care benefits for its members.

Greg Boulware, president of DC33, praised LL Cool J’s decision, stating, “His actions highlight the importance of supporting those who strive for fair treatment and better working conditions.” After Sullivan announced her withdrawal as well, Boulware expressed that he was “profoundly humbled” by her recognition of the dedication shown by municipal workers.

City Officials Respond

Negotiations between the union and the city halted on Thursday, with Mayor Cherelle Parker indicating that while the city’s negotiating team is prepared to engage, union leadership has opted to pause discussions. In a statement regarding LL Cool J’s decision, Parker remarked, “I respect his decision and understand his desire to see the city unified.” She also voiced her support for Sullivan, saying, “Jazmine, your hometown loves you!”

As concertgoers are recalibrating their expectations for the event, the mayor encouraged attendance. She reiterated the commitment to unity within the city, stating, “Our mission every day is ‘One Philly, a United City’.” Despite the absence of the two major artists, other performances are scheduled for the Fourth of July festivities.

Upcoming Performers

The concert, now aptly branded as the “Party on the Parkway,” will open its gates at 4 p.m. with a fireworks display slated to begin after dark, around 9 p.m. Despite the absence of its originally planned headliners, the city remains optimistic about a vibrant celebration.