Madison Square Garden announced the "Thank You, NYPD" campaign on February 14, 2024, to express appreciation for the New York City Police Department.[1][2] The initiative includes an invite-only concert scheduled for March 28, 2024, at the New York City arena.[1][2]

The private event is reserved for uniformed NYPD officers, civilian staff members and their families. Madison Square Garden Entertainment and MSG Sports CEO and Executive Chairman Jim Dolan described it as a non-political gesture of gratitude amid public criticism of law enforcement.[1][2]

Confirmed performers include singer Cyndi Lauper, musician John Fogerty, rapper Fat Joe—a known New York Knicks supporter—and comedians Chris Distefano and Sam Morril.[1][2] The show will be provided rent-free, with production and operating costs covered by donations.[1][2]

Lauper, a two-time Grammy winner and lifelong New Yorker, said in a statement: "I am happy to show my appreciation for the brave members of the NYPD by performing at this MSG event. We are all New Yorkers, and the NYPD is such an important part of our community."[1][2]

Dolan stated: "Cries of ‘defund the police’ and other negative statements do not reflect the true feelings of New Yorkers... This concert to say, ‘Thank You, NYPD’ is designed to let our police know that we New Yorkers need, respect and appreciate their effort and service."[1][2]

Madison Square Garden, opened in 1968, is a multi-purpose arena in Midtown Manhattan and home to the NBA's New York Knicks and NHL's New York Rangers. Dolan serves as Knicks governor on the NBA Board of Governors.[3][1]

The Garden encouraged New Yorkers to submit personal "thank you" videos via its website.[1][2]

Sources

1. Fox News Digital. "Madison Square Garden announces free concert for NYPD with Cyndi Lauper, Fat Joe, Chris Distefano." February 14, 2024. https://www.foxnews.com/sports/madison-square-garden-announces-free-concert-nypd-cyndi-lauper-fat-joe-chris-distefano
2. New York Post. "Madison Square Garden announces free concert for NYPD with Cyndi Lauper, Fat Joe." February 14, 2024. https://nypost.com/2024/02/14/entertainment/madison-square-garden-announces-free-concert-for-nypd-with-cyndi-lauper-fat-joe/
3. Madison Square Garden official site. "About The Garden." Accessed February 2024. https://www.msg.com/the-garden/about