JAY-Z Says Philly Mayor Evicting Made in America 'Signifies Zero Appreciation' for Fest's Impact

The office of Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney released a statement announcing the eviction of JAY-Z’s Made in America Festival from Ben Franklin Parkway, following the 2018 showcase.

Made in America is moving after six years of hosting the annual Labor Day weekend festival in Philadelphia.

The office of Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney released a statement announcing the eviction of JAY-Z’s fest from the Ben Franklin Parkway following the 2018 showcase. Read the announcement below:

“This is the last year MIA will be held on the Parkway. It’s unclear how MIA will want to proceed in the future but the City is interested in discussing alternate locations within Philadelphia for future years. When the festival first started, it was intended to provide a unique attraction to the City on the otherwise quiet Labor Day weekend. Over the years, tourism has grown overall and the need for an event of this scale at this location may no longer be necessary. We are interested in discussing the festival’s future with the producers and look forward to continuing a partnership.”

Nicki Minaj and Post Malone are headlining this year’s fest with Meek Mill, Diplo, Janelle Monáe, Fat Joe, 6LACK, Ty Dolla Sign, Belly, Rich The Kid and more on the lineup.

JAY-Z is not thrilled about the announcement. He penned an open letter to the mayor about the eviction, expressing his disappointment in the decision and also revealing that the city attempted to halt the 2018 event.  

Read the letter below:

The Made in America festival is a multi-cultural platform that represents strength, freedom of speech and perseverance for artists and music lovers. Philadelphia, an iconic city, represents those ideals. The location is integral to the pulse of the festival. The Parkway is a cultural arts center that is symbolic to over 600 artists that have performed at this event. The Parkway captures the freedom and spirit of inclusivity that drew us to the city of Brotherly Love. The celebratory nature and essence of this festival has inspired locals as well as visitors from across the nation to enjoy Labor Day in Philadelphia.

It's unclear if JAY will try and move the festival elsewhere in the city, or leave altogether. 

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