Philly Mayor Throws Shade as LL Cool J Ditches July 4th Gig—Is This the Start of a Star-Studded Strike Showdown?
Added on July 4, 2025 inEntertainment News Cards
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So, here we are—LL Cool J just dropped a mic on Philadelphia’s Wawa Welcome America concert, scheduled for July 4th, and honestly, it’s got me wondering: can even a hip-hop legend dodge drama under the stubborn gaze of a Cancer Moon? While the city’s simmering with a strike led by thousands of municipal workers fighting for fair pay, our dear LL is standing firm, refusing to cross picket lines and toss his star power at anything less than justice. It’s like the universe threw a curveball that even the smoothest operator can’t dance around. I mean, when the cosmos says “support your crew,” how can you not? With over 9,000 city employees on strike and Philadelphia teetering between chaos and compromise, it’s much more than just a concert cancellation—it’s a statement that resonates deep. And as Mayor Cherelle Parker tiptoes through the political minefield, one thing’s clear: this July 4th isn’t just about fireworks; it’s about standing tall when the stakes are sky-high. Buckle up, folks—this Philly showdown just got real. LEARN MORE
LL Cool J pulled out of Philadelphia’s Wawa Welcome America concert scheduled for July 4 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, citing support for striking city workers and refusing to perform while labor negotiations remain unresolved.
The Hip-Hop icon announced his decision Thursday night via Instagram, just one day before the event, stating that he would not cross a picket line while thousands of municipal employees continued their walkout for better pay and benefits.
“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?” he said in the video.
The strike, led by AFSCME District Council 33, began July 1 and marks Philadelphia’s first major municipal labor stoppage since 1986.
More than 9,000 workers—including sanitation crews, 911 dispatchers and water department staff—have walked off the job, disrupting essential services across the city.
Mayor Cherelle Parker responded to LL Cool J’s announcement, expressing appreciation for his stance while acknowledging the city’s ongoing challenges.
“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. 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,” Parker said in a statement.
The strike has already led to trash pileups, delays in morgue operations and heightened tensions between city officials and union leaders. The union leaders rejected the city’s offer of an 8% raise over three years, calling it inadequate given the rising cost of living.
LL Cool J added that he still plans to be in Philadelphia in case a deal is reached.
“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 hurt.”
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