International artist Chris Brown is set to perform at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium on December 14 and 15. While tickets for the December 15 show sold out within hours, his upcoming visit has sparked widespread backlash, particularly in a country grappling with some of the world’s highest rates of femicide and gender-based violence (GBV).
Many in South Africa still recall Brown’s assault on his then-girlfriend Rihanna, an incident that occurred eight years ago but continues to resonate, especially with GBV survivors and their supporters. For many, time has not healed this wound, and his upcoming performances have reignited public outrage, further fueled by the release of a new documentary titled Chris Brown: A History of Violence, set to premiere shortly before his South African tour dates.
In protest, the non-profit organisation Women For Change has launched a petition to block Brown from entering or performing in South Africa. The petition has already garnered over 30,000 signatures, according to TimesLive, and calls on concert organisers, promoters, and the South African government to reconsider his scheduled performances.
Women For Change calls on concert organisers @BigConcerts , promoters, and the South African government @HomeAffairsSA @Leon_Schreib to reconsider the decision to allow Chris Brown to perform in Johannesburg on 14 December 2024.
Sign here: https://t.co/LILv6Y4ZJi
Almost 7,000… pic.twitter.com/zrYKwSV7eZ
— Women For Change (@womenforchange5) October 4, 2024
Women For Change advocates for awareness and education in the fight against GBV, and their efforts have resonated with many who oppose Brown’s presence in the country.
Despite the controversy, Brown appears resolute. He recently posted a photo on Instagram wearing a balaclava with the South African flag, accompanied by a caption that many found disrespectful: “IM STEPPING ON SH*T!”
His remarks have only intensified public anger, particularly after he commented on a video by social commentator Darren Campher, saying: “Can’t wait to come.”
Brown’s words and actions continue to stir controversy, deepening public discontent ahead of his South African performances.
A post shared by Women For Change (@womenforchangesa)
Words: Fame Frenzy
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