LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan Pulled Out of July 4th Festival in Bold Stand With Striking Workers

Two of the biggest stars scheduled to perform at Philadelphia’s Wawa Welcome America Festival on the Fourth of July made headlines not for their music — but for their absence. LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan both backed out of the celebration in a public stand with striking municipal workers.

The high-profile withdrawals came just hours before the festival’s marquee performances were set to begin. LL Cool J, who was slated to headline the event alongside Grammy-winning Philly native Sullivan, announced on July 3 that he would not cross a picket line while workers were fighting for fair wages.

“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 said.He added that he hoped “the city can make a deal,” and stated his intention to stay in Philadelphia in case a resolution was reached.

The labor strike, led by District Council 33 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), began early Tuesday morning after contract negotiations with the city stalled. The union represents essential workers, including 911 dispatchers and sanitation employees.

Following LL Cool J’s announcement, the union issued a public statement commending his decision:

“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.”

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker confirmed she had personally spoken to the rap icon and expressed respect for his stance:

“I respect his decision, and understand his desire to see the city unified. He is always welcome in Philadelphia.”

Shortly after, Jazmine Sullivan announced via Instagram that she, too, would not take the stage.

“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,” Sullivan wrote.

Mayor Parker responded with similar understanding and support, saying,

“Jazmine, your hometown loves you!”

Union President Greg Boulware also praised Sullivan’s decision, calling it:

“Truly refreshing to witness a celebrity of her stature and a native Philadelphian recognizing and valuing the tireless dedication of municipal workers.”

As of July 5, festival organizers had yet to issue an official statement regarding the cancellations.

On July 1, a judge issued court injunctions requiring some union members to return to work. The union acknowledged the order and advised affected members to comply to avoid legal consequences, while reaffirming its commitment to reaching a fair contract.

Though the Wawa Welcome America Festival went on, the absence of LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan cast a major spotlight on the labor dispute — and served as a powerful example of artists using their platform to support social justice over spectacle.