GBV Activist Group Women For Change Calls for Chris Brown’s Concert in South Africa to be Cancelled Over Domestic Violence Conviction
Anti-gender-based violence (GBV) activists Women For Change are calling on authorities to cancel Chris Brown’s upcoming concert in South Africa.
The advocacy group has expressed strong objections, particularly due to the singer’s past conviction of domestic violence, which they argue undermines the country’s efforts to address GBV.
Chris Brown’s History of Violence in the Spotlight
Chris Brown, who was convicted in 2009 for assaulting his then-girlfriend Rihanna, is set to perform on December 14 at FNB Stadium.
Women For Change Calls for Chris Brown’s Concert in South Africa to be Cancelled (Image Credit: Instagram @chrisbrownofficial)His performance, however, is being overshadowed by renewed scrutiny of his violent past. Coinciding with the release of the documentary Chris Brown: A History of Violence later this month, activists argue that allowing the singer to perform in South Africa sends the wrong message.
In a statement, Women For Change expressed concern over the impact on survivors of abuse.
“Hosting Chris Brown sends a harmful message to survivors of abuse and undermines the progress we are trying to make in addressing GBV in South Africa,” the group said.
Activists Challenge Home Affairs Over Chris Brown Visa
Women For Change has urged the Department of Home Affairs to revoke Chris Brown’s visa and cancel his performance.
The concert, which comes just after the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, has stirred significant controversy.
In a statement, the group questioned how authorities could permit Brown to enter South Africa, given his criminal history.
“We demand to know how Home Affairs could grant a visa to a convicted abuser to perform in South Africa,” they stated.
The group further criticized the decision, calling it a “systemic failure” to protect the country’s most vulnerable individuals.
“This decision is concerning and indicative of a systemic failure to protect the very individuals who need our support the most.”
Calls for Boycott and Reconsideration
Women For Change has called for the public to support their campaign against the concert, urging both concert organizers and decision-makers to reconsider hosting Chris Brown in South Africa.
“We must hold individuals accountable for their actions and work to build a culture that uplifts and supports survivors rather than glorifying those who have caused harm.
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,” the statement read.
Women For Change has already launched a petition for people to sign.