Rapper Jay-Z is getting hammered by carpenters for using non-union labor for the renovation of his Manhattan club 40/40.
But the carpenters union, which erected five inflatable rats outside the club, has gone too far by shouting the “n*gger” at management, according to Jay-Z’s rep.
“The union is trying to bully 40/40 to hire union workers. They were shouting racial slurs. It was really inappropriate protesting,” said Lauren Menache, a spokeswoman for Jay-Z.
The union members repeatedly shout “n*gger” during protests and in phone calls to 40/40 management, said Menache.
The New York City District Council of Carpenters did not return calls for comment.
The club is in a non-union building, said Menache, giving the contractors the freedom to hire carpenters. “We confirmed that we have the right to hire a contractor that is not in the union,” she said.
The club closed in June to begin a $10 million renovation, which includes a runway, pool tables, chandeliers and VIP lounges with plush seats.
It’s expected to reopen in November.
The flagship 40/40 Club was established in 2002 and the franchise includes bars in Atlantic City, New Jersey and Chicago.
