Jack Harlow shared a photo of a framed letter from Louisville mayor Greg Fischer on Instagram Monday announcing that the city will observe Dec. 18, 2021 as “Jack Harlow Day.”
“For answering, once and for all, that what’s poppin’ is Louisville when it comes to talent that makes it bigger than big, but doesn’t forget the “home” in hometown or homegrown,” the letter reads. “The rapper’s way with words and beats has earned him untold fans, chart-topping releases and an ability to give back in meaningful ways, and he does.”
The announcement comes after Harlow partnered with KFC parent company Yum! Brands to donate $250,000 to the American Red Cross to help with Kentucky tornado relief efforts. “Growing up I always dreamed of being that guy who would put Kentucky on the map in the music scene,” he said in a statement. “But to team up with an iconic national staple like KFC, the biggest brand to come out of Kentucky, is truly an honor. I’m looking forward to all the amazing things we’re about to do together.”
Over 70 people were killed when a tornado ripped through western Kentucky last month, with more than 100 others missing. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency and the National Guard was deployed to assist with state officials and volunteers in rescue efforts.
Harlow announced this past October that he would donating to five local organizations—AMPED, the Center for Women and Families, Grace James Academy, Louisville Urban League, and Metro United Way—and KFC, along with Instagram, later revealed plans to match what he was giving. The “Tyler Herro” rapper explained on Instagram that he wanted to shine a light on the city that raised him, and felt like giving back was his responsibility after how fortunate he’s turned out.
“Growing up in Louisville, all I ever fantasized about was shining a light on the city. I would hear my favorite rappers talk about where they were from in songs and I felt this urge to let the world know about us too,” he wrote. “I’ve been blessed enough to build a platform during this journey & it’s become clear to me that giving back to the town that raised me is now one of my responsibilities. I made donations to 5 local organizations, and now my goal is to introduce them to all of you.”
Harlow kicked off his No Place Like Home tour last month with five consecutivesold out shows in Louisville.
