Chris Brown’s upcoming South Africa concert has recently sparked controversy despite selling over 94,000 tickets for the live event, scheduled for December 14th.
Since the multi-talented artist announced his return to the country, fans have eagerly awaited his arrival. However, women’s rights campaigners have a different opinion about his performance, arguing that his presence in a country that’s dealing with one of the world’s highest rates of femicide and gender-based violence is extremely problematic.
As a result, the advocacy group Women for Change has taken a stand and launched a petition to prevent Brown from performing in the country. So far, the petition has received 20,000 signatures.
“When I saw the news that Chris Brown was coming to South Africa, I was shocked and deeply disappointed. The petition was started to send a strong message that we will not tolerate the celebration of individuals with a history of violence against women,” Executive Director Sabina Walter stated.
She also emphasized that allowing Brown to perform in a country where violence against women is at an all-time high could send the wrong idea.
“It shows that fame and power outweigh accountability,” Walter continued. “It minimizes the suffering of victims and undermines the tireless efforts of those working to combat gender-based violence.”
Additionally, the non-profit organization released a statement earlier this month regarding Brown’s performance, questioning Home Affairs for allowing him to host a concert in the country. They also urged them to hold “individuals accountable for actions” and reconsider granting permission for his show.
“We demand to know how Home Affairs could grant a visa to a convicted abuser to perform in South Africa,” the organization wrote. “We strongly urge concert organisers and decision-makers to reconsider hosting Chris Brown and call on the public to support our advocacy for a safer, more respectful society for all women and girls.”
If you’re unaware, Brown has a history involving women and violence. In 2009, he pleaded guilty to assaulting his former girlfriend, Rihanna, after a Grammys party. He was sentenced to five years of probation, counseling, and community service. Since then, Brown has been on the road to redemption and changing the perception that follows him. But, despite his efforts, Brown still has a lingering narrative hanging over him. As a result, countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand denied him entry due to his criminal record. Nonetheless, Brown’s South Africa concert is still expected to go on.
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