An online petition led by the non-profit organization Women For Change is gaining momentum to cancel the scheduled performance of R&B artist Chris Brown in Johannesburg. The petition highlights Brown’s history of violence, particularly his assault on Rihanna in 2009, and urges concert organizers and South African authorities to reconsider hosting the event.
Chris Brown’s storied past is overshadowed by his notorious assault on pop icon Rihanna in 2009, an incident that left her with grave injuries and solidified his reputation as a polarizing figure in the entertainment sphere. As the clock ticks down to his scheduled concert on December 14, 2024, activists are fervently urging concert organizers—including Big Concerts and South African authorities—to rethink the decision to host an artist whose history of violence raises profound concerns.
Women For Change have articulated their discontent through a powerful petition on Change.org, spotlighting the jarring coincidence of Brown’s concert with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. “This timing transcends mere misfortune; it’s a direct affront to the countless women and girls around the globe who endure unspeakable violence,” the organization declared. “In South Africa, where femicide rates are staggering—five times higher than the global average—celebrating an artist with a documented history of abuse sends a perilous message.”
The petition has rapidly garnered support, fueling a collective outcry for action. Women For Change urges the public to rise in solidarity, demanding the cancellation of Chris Brown’s concert and compelling Big Concerts, promoters, and sponsors to take a firm stance against violence. They are also advocating for the revocation of Brown’s visa, seeking to block his entry into South Africa entirely. “Let us seize this moment to demonstrate to the world that South Africa will not condone violence against women in any guise. Together, we can champion justice, respect, and safety for all women and girls,” the organization passionately asserted.
As champions for the constitutional rights of women and children, Women For Change emphasizes the critical need for transformation in a society grappling with an escalating crisis of gender-based violence. Their sentiments resonate deeply among South Africans, many of whom perceive the hosting of an artist with such a turbulent past as a betrayal of the fight against these pervasive issues.
The concert is generating considerable buzz not only for its artist but also for its eye-watering ticket prices, which range from R515 to R3,085 for reserved seating, soaring up to R5,744.25 for exclusive access to the Hall of Fame Lounge. In the wake of the mounting backlash, Big Concerts recently announced an additional performance on December 15, 2024, following the swift sell-out of the initial date.
As the petition continues to gather steam, the discourse surrounding Chris Brown’s concert prompts crucial reflections on the values we uphold as a society.
