Rapper Jim Jones’ scheduled appearance at an HIV Testing Day event in Jersey City has been cancelled by city officials, AllHipHop.com has learned.
The Office of Mayor Jerramiah Healy has confirmed with AllHipHop.com that they have decided to eliminate the planned concert and speaking engagement by Jones from the June 27 festivities, due to the lyrical content of his music.
“The City of Jersey City is proud to sponsor events during the month of June that encourage our residents to be tested for HIV/AIDS,” Press Secretary Jennifer Morrill told AllHipHop.com. “When it was brought to the attention of the Mayor’s Office staff that Mr. Jones was the star of the concert, a careful review of Mr. Jones’ lyrics was done and ultimately the decision was made to cancel the show.”
In mid-May, shortly after making an emotional revelation on BET’s 106 & Park about his personal losses to HIV/AIDS, the Dipset/Byrdgang Capo had been selected to speak to the Jersey City about the importance of being tested.
Additionally, Jones, who lost both his father and an uncle to the disease, was set to receive a proclamation from the City of Jersey City, presented by Mayor Healey and New Jersey Senator Sandra Cunningham.
“Mayor Healy has always been a proponent of positive outlets for our youth and a strong gun control advocate,” Morrill told AllHipHop.com. “Mr. Jones’ lyrics speak of violence to women and police, of the drug trade and guns, and other activities that Mayor Healy could not endorse by sponsoring an event featuring Mr. Jones.”
While there is no word on whether Jones will be replaced by another performer, all other National HIV Testing Day activities will still be held at PS #4107 in Jersey City.
Those wishing to attend must first get tested at an approved area testing site to gain entry.
Jim Jones’ latest effort on the music front, Jim Jones Presents M.O.B: Members of ByrdGang The Album hits stores July 1.