Stop Chris Brown from Performing in South Africa: No Stage for Abusers!
Below is the petition submission, formally submitted via email to Big Concerts, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture on 25 November 2024, marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The document below was handed over along with a list of signatures and comments in support of the petition.
This submission represents a collective call to action, amplifying the voices of over 51,330 supporters demanding accountability and justice in the fight against GBVF.
Click to view Change.org Petition
Petition Submission
Contents:
- Introduction
- Context on gender-based violence in South Africa
- About Women For Change
- Social Media and Public Reaction to the Petition
- Chris Brown’s History of Violence
- International Precedents and Advocacy History
- Big Concerts – Legal and Ethical Obligations
- Department of Home Affairs – Legal and Ethical Obligations
- Department of Sports, Art and Culture – Legal and Ethical Obligations
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
On 1 October 2024, Women For Change (WFC) issued an official statement strongly condemning the upcoming Chris Brown concerts scheduled for 14 and 15 December 2024 in Johannesburg. These events are set to take place mere days after the global commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, making them a direct insult to the millions of women and girls impacted by violence in South Africa and across the globe.
Following our statement, on 2 October, we launched a petition on Change.org demanding that Chris Brown be stopped from performing in South Africa. This petition is a protest against one artist and a stand against the normalisation of abuse, particularly by individuals in positions of power and influence.
As of today, 25 November, our Change.org petition has gathered 51,330 signatures.
South Africa remains in the grip of a devastating GBVF crisis, with femicide rates five times higher than the global average. Countless women and children live in constant fear, and the scars of violence run deep in our communities. The latest crime statistics, announced by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on 30 August 2024, reveal a grim reality: 19,961 rapes were reported to the police in just the first six months of this year, underscoring the ongoing scourge of GBV in our country.
As a nation plagued by some of the highest rates of GBVF in the world, we must reject the normalisation of violence, mainly when it involves influential figures such as famous artists or sports personalities. With this petition, we aim to send a resounding message that South Africa will not tolerate the celebration of individuals with documented histories of violence against women.
This is not just about a single concert; it represents a much larger fight for justice, accountability, and solidarity with the thousands of women who have been silenced.
The content of this document extensively addresses our concerns with the institutions that directly contributed to enabling an abuser to gain a public platform in our country.
2. Background Context on gender-based violence in South Africa
GBVF remains a pervasive and deeply rooted issue in South Africa, marked by alarmingly high rates of femicide, rape, and sexual assault. Despite numerous campaigns and public outcries, the statistics continue to rise, reflecting a societal normalisation of extreme violence against women.
The latest annual crime statistics for 2023/24, released by the South African Police Services, highlight the severity of the crisis:
- South Africa recorded 5,578 femicide cases, equating to 15 women murdered daily. This represents a 33.8% increase compared to the previous year.
- 42,569 cases of rape were reported during the same period, equating to 117 rapes per day. It is estimated that 95% of rape cases go unreported, indicating the true scale of the crisis is far greater.
- Between April 2023 and March 2024, 53,285 sexual offences were reported to the police, further emphasising the widespread nature of sexual violence.
- In 2023/2024, 63,054 cases of assault GBH against women were reported – an average of 173 cases per day.
On 18 November 2024, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) released South Africa’s first national gender-based violence prevalence study based on a survey of 10,012 individuals (5,603 women and 4,409 men) across the country. The study revealed troubling societal attitudes and gender-power dynamics that perpetuate GBV:
- 9.9% of ever-partnered men believed that women are often to blame for being raped due to their actions.
- 11.9% of men agreed that if a woman does not physically fight back, it is not considered rape.
These findings underscore a disturbing cultural tendency to blame victims and idolise public figures, overshadowing the importance of accountability. This normalisation of abuse perpetuates the cycle of violence and undermines efforts to combat GBV effectively.
Fostering a culture of accountability at all levels of society is essential to addressing this pandemic. This involves challenging and changing societal norms that enable GBV. Public figures, particularly those with histories of abuse, must be held accountable for their actions. Excusing or glorifying abusive behaviour only deepens the harm and sends a dangerous message to survivors and the broader public.
Allowing an individual with a documented history of violence, such as Chris Brown, to perform in South Africa, a country grappling with one of the highest rates of GBV and femicide globally – sends a harmful and regressive message. It undermines efforts to combat GBV and perpetuates the normalisation of abuse. The timing of Chris Brown’s concerts being 4 and 5 days after 16 days of activism makes this an even greater insult to the fight against GBVF.
Instead of glorifying individuals with histories of violence, South Africa must focus on empowering survivors, supporting advocacy efforts, and creating a culture that prioritises justice, accountability, and respect.
3. About WFC
Women For Change (WFC) is a non-profit organisation established in 2016 that advocates for the constitutional rights of women and children in South Africa. WFC educates, advocates, and campaigns on GBVF, Human Rights, and Gender Equality daily.
Through our extensive social media platforms, which garner up to 20 million views each month, WFC amplifies the voices of survivors, drives policy influence, and shapes public opinion on GBVF.
WFC’s objectives are:
- Raise Awareness: Increase public awareness about GBV, sexual violence, and femicide cases through social media platforms and websites, gaining more than twenty million views per month.
- Education and Prevention: Provide impactful education on ending violence against women and children and fostering a culture of prevention and understanding.
- Victim Support: Offer guidance and vital support services, including online victim support and referrals, to survivors and the families of GBVF victims.
- Advocate for Justice: Champion the rights of survivors and victims of GBVF by advocating for justice and the elimination of violence against women and children in South Africa.
- Promote Research and Influence Policy: Conduct research, gather statistics, and drive advocacy efforts to end GBVF. Our work aims to influence policy changes, shape public opinion, and create lasting societal transformation.
Every day, WFC supports many women who have found the courage to speak out for the first time. Our mission is unwavering: we stand with survivors of GBV and reject any support or celebration of those who perpetuate violence.
Calling for the cancellation of Chris Brown’s concert is not just another campaign for us – it’s a cause we deeply believe in. We are fighting for every woman and child who has been silenced, hurt, or lost to violence. Allowing abusers to be celebrated on our stages sends a harmful message, and we cannot stand by and let it happen.
4. Social Media and Public Reaction to the Petition
The public reaction to the petition has been both overwhelming and deeply revealing. While the petition garnered significant support from tens of thousands of individuals advocating against GBV and those who believe in holding public figures accountable, it also exposed a darker side of societal attitudes.
On 16 October 2024, Chris Brown’s official account commented on a WFC Instagram post: “Can’t wait to come❤️”
Instead of engaging in a dialogue with us or simply ignoring the call for protest, he makes this comment, knowing what kind of influence his words will have on millions of his fans. Chris Brown does not seem to take the scourge of GBVF seriously and has an understanding of what is currently happening in South Africa, neither does he care to find out.
Encouraged by his bad behaviour, his fans, followers, and online incels have taken it upon themselves to harass and intimidate us and others that stand with us.
Our team received an alarming volume of violent messages and threats, predominantly from Chris Brown fans and online incels, which escalated to such an extent that we had to take measures to optimise our safety.
In addition to the violent threats, our organisation and team members were targeted by a wave of misinformation and defamatory lies spread online. This deliberate campaign sought to undermine our credibility with false accusations and malicious narratives aimed at discrediting our work and the individuals behind it.
Team members were subjected to relentless online bullying, with hatred and abuse directed at them, further intensifying the emotional strain on us, who already work under challenging circumstances. The sheer intensity of these attacks disrupted our vital work in our daily victim support, as the harassment consumed time, resources, and emotional energy, leaving a mental toll on our team.
The severity of these actions compelled us to take legal steps, including opening criminal and civil cases against several individuals responsible for these attacks. These experiences underscore the hostile environment faced by those advocating for justice and challenging harmful norms, revealing the lengths to which certain factions will go to silence and intimidate voices speaking out against GBV. This experience starkly highlighted the entrenched patterns of patriarchy.
Amid the backlash our team faced, there were also overwhelmingly positive reactions.
Our community rallied to our defence, highlighting the valid reasons behind the petition and emphasising its importance. Survivors of GBV also shared their voices, expressing how deeply the petition resonated with them and how it symbolised a stand against the normalisation of abuse. Many shared their feelings of empowerment and validation, stating that initiatives like these made them feel seen and supported.
Our posts addressing the Chris Brown petition gathered more than 6.3 Million views across our social media platforms, with more than 240,000 people engaging.
Many journalists, national and international, brought attention to the bullying and threats we endured as a team and as individuals, openly voicing their concerns for our safety as well as the upcoming concert.
Public discourse around the petition also included criticism of Chris Brown’s character, with many citing his repeated offences and allegations as evidence of his unfit demeanour. This sentiment grew even stronger after Chris Brown commented on our Instagram post, further sparking conversations about his behaviour. The petition garnered attention and support from influencers, prominent content creators, and political parties that stood in solidarity with us.
The GOOD party has strongly backed our call to cancel Chris Brown’s concert, emphasising in their official statement the importance of collective action in rejecting the glorification of violence while prioritising the dignity and safety of survivors.
Media & Publications
Since the petition’s launch on 2 October 2024, more than 140 articles and interviews have been published in national and international media. Renowned outlets such as BBC, Billboard, Reuters, PopBase, Mirror UK, and Newzroom Afrika have covered our campaign, amplifying its reach and significance.
This widespread coverage highlights the petition’s immense impact, particularly on an international scale, and underscores the importance of our stand against GBVF.
BBC.com: Chris Brown FNB Stadium concert sparks South Africa debate about gender-based violence
Billboard.com: Chris Brown’s South Africa Show Faces Backlash, Petition to Stop Concert
Okay Africa: Op-Ed: Why Backlash Against Chris Brown’s South African Tour Matters – Okayplayer
Interview Newzroom Afrika: Women For Change: cancel Chris Brown concert now
5. Chris Brown’s History of Violence
Chris Brown has a well-documented history of violence against multiple women. In 2009, he was convicted of the brutal assault of his then-girlfriend, Rihanna – a case that sparked global outrage and brought widespread attention to the issue of domestic violence.
Despite this conviction, his troubling behaviour has continued, with 28 reported accusations of violent conduct since then. Below is an overview of these incidents, organised by year:
| Year | Short description of the incident | Crime |
| Feb 2009 | Chris Brown (CB), then 19, punched, choked and bit his then-girlfriend Rihanna, leaving her with visible and horrific facial injuries and in need of hospitalisation. Rihanna’s arms had also been covered in visible contusions and bruises.
CB turned himself into the police and later pleaded guilty to one count of felony assault. In 2013, he was sentenced to five years probation and 1,400 hours of community service. |
Domestic Violence |
| Mar 2011 | Good Morning America co-host Robin Roberts asked Brown repeated questions about Rihanna during his visit to the show. After that, the artist stormed off set and threw a chair through his dressing room window. CB confronted several show production staff members and exited the building shirtless. | Verbal Abuse |
| Feb 2012 | CB became upset when he noticed a woman taking a photo of him outside a Miami nightclub. According to a police report, CB snatched the phone from her to avoid any photos being leaked to tabloids and then drove off with the item. He was accused of one count of robbery. | Robbery |
| Jun 2012 | CB was involved in a brawl with Drake at a New York nightclub, in which about eight people were injured due to broken bottles and punches thrown. | Physical violence |
| Oct 2012 | CB attended a Halloween party in 2012 dressed as an Islamic terrorist. Rihanna was also present at the party, which was a violation of the restraining order taken out against Brown in the wake of the assault. He appeared in court on 1 Nov 2012. | Violation of restraining order |
| Jan 2013 | CB was involved in an altercation with Frank Ocean over a parking space outside a recording studio in California. According to police reports, CB pushed or punched the singer. Ocean did not press charges. | Physical violence |
| Jun 2013 | In Orange County, CB experienced another club-related altercation when a woman accused him of shoving her to the ground. She claimed she would need surgery following the incident that left her with torn ligaments in her right knee. | Violence against women |
| Jul 2013 | CB was driving a car that rear-ended another vehicle in Los Angeles, and he was charged with hit-and-run driving and driving without a licence. The charges were dropped at a hearing the following month after reaching a “civil compromise” with his accuser. | Hit-and-run, driving without a licence |
| Oct/Nov
2013 |
CB was arrested for felony assault after punching a man outside the W Hotel in Washington, D.C.. CB and his bodyguard allegedly punched a man and broke his nose after he had tried to get in a picture with him and two women. | Physical violence |
| Nov 2013 | CB voluntarily entered a rehab centre while awaiting sentencing. He was kicked out for violent behaviour on 14 November 2013.
CB smashed his mother’s car window with a rock during a family session, per his probation officer. Six days later, On 20 November 2023, CB was sentenced to 90 days at an anger management rehab facility, as well as submitting regular drug tests. |
Violence against women (mother) |
| Mar 2014 | CB was kicked out of the Malibu treatment facility, where a judge ordered him to stay.
CB spent the weekend in a jail in Los Angeles after he was arrested for violating the rules and regulations of his treatment. |
Violation of rules and regulations |
| May 2014 | On 9 May 2014, CB was sentenced to remain on probation and serve an additional 131 days in jail. A Superior Court Judge sentenced CB to a year in prison but gave him credit for nearly eight months of time served.
CB was released early after serving 108 days of his 131-day sentence. However, he remained on probation and was ordered to complete his remaining community service and see a psychiatrist twice a week. |
Sentenced to one year in jail and served 108 days |
| Sep 2014 | CB pleaded guilty to the assault from the October 2013 incident in Washington, D.C. He admitted to misdemeanour assault and was sentenced to time served. CB spent two days in a District of Columbia jail. | Jailed and sentenced |
| Jan 2015 | CB’s probation was revoked when a judge learned he had travelled outside Los Angeles County without prior consent for a private performance at a nightclub in California. An altercation during his concert escalated into gunfire, and five people were shot. | Probation Violation |
| May 2015 | CB allegedly assaulted an adult male during a basketball game. The man was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, which were sustained after a verbal spat led to a physical fight. The man denied to press charges against CB. | Physical violence |
| Jul 2015 | CB was allowed to leave the Philippines after being detained for several days following a fraud investigation into cancelling a New Year’s Eve concert in 2014. The organisers alleged that Brown had cancelled the show after he received the $1 million to perform.
Elaine Tan, a spokeswoman of the Immigration Bureau, told the Associated Press that Brown was cleared after “verifying that Chris Brown has no other derogatory record apart from the [immigration lookout bulletin]” that had been issued. |
Arrested for fraud |
| Sep 2015 | During a video shoot in Colorado, CB forcibly ejected a woman from his bus when she refused to give him her cell phone. The woman also claimed her phone was broken and filed a report for third-degree assault. | Violence against women |
| Jan 2016 | A woman accused CB of punching her in the face and taking her phone in a Las Vegas nightclub. The woman claimed that she had been trying to take a photo with Brown during a private party before the assault occurred. | Violence against women |
| May 2016 | Michael Guirguis (a.k.a. Mike G), a manager who CB hired to help him rehabilitate his image after he assaulted Rihanna, filed a lawsuit against CB, claiming the singer had brutally punched him multiple times in the head and neck. After several years of litigation, the case was settled out of court in 2019.
CB Tour manager Nancy Ghosh also claimed that she quit on the spot after a drug-fueled outburst from CB left her feeling unsafe. During the European tour, she claimed that CB cursed her out over the terms of her employment. |
Physical violence, violence against women |
| Aug 2016 | CB was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon following a nine-hour standoff with police at his house in Los Angeles.
The woman, Baylee Curran, alleges that CB threatened her with the weapon while she attended a party at his home. The woman had called 911 and accused CB of threatening her with a gun before asking her to sign a nondisclosure agreement. CB was released on $250,000 bail that same night. |
Violence against women |
| Feb 2017 | CB and several members of his entourage were sued by a woman alleging she was the victim of sexual battery, assault and rape at a party at his home, according to a lawsuit filed on her behalf by attorney Gloria Allred.
The woman alleged that CB’s friend Lowell Grissom Jr. (Young Lo), raped her twice at CB’s home. After the woman was able to extricate herself from CB’s home, she went to a rape treatment centre and reported her claims to the police. |
Rape, Sexual Battery |
| Feb 2017 | CB was court-ordered to stay 100 yards away from ex-girlfriend Karrueche Tran and not attempt to contact her. It is alleged that CB had repeatedly threatened her since December 2016. Karrueche also accused him of punching her in the stomach and pushing her downstairs a few years ago. | Domestic Violence |
| Apr 2017 | CB allegedly punches a photographer in Tampa during a paid appearance at AJA Channelside. The victim claimed that CB attacked him because he was taking photos of him. CB was not arrested at the time.
In July 2018, CB was arrested for felony battery after a performance in West Palm Beach, Fla., for the April 2017 incident in Tampa. The charge was dropped in August 2019. |
Felony Battery, Physical violence |
| Jun 2017 | Karrueche Tran was granted a five-year restraining order against CB. Karrueche alleged that CB repeatedly harassed her, punched her, threatened to kill her and her friends and pushed her down the stairs during their relationship. | Domestic Violence |
| May 2018 | A woman sued CB and two others after she was allegedly held down and sexually assaulted in the singer’s home during a party in February 2017. She sued the three men for sexual battery, battery and assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
The case was settled out of court in 2020. |
Violence against women |
| Jan 2019 | CB was detained in Paris on potential charges of aggravated rape and drug infractions after a woman filed a rape complaint. His rep confirmed a few days later that Brown had been released from custody and that all charges had been dropped. CB subsequently denied rape allegations against him, | Rape |
| Dec 2020 | A woman alleged CB that he raped her while she attended a New Year’s party at a yacht in Miami owned by P. Diddy.
In January 2022, the woman filed a lawsuit against Brown and alleged he drugged and raped her in 2020. A judge later dismissed the case in August 2022. |
Rape |
| Jun 2021 | Police responded to a report of a domestic argument in the San Fernando Valley area, corresponding with CB’s address. It is alleged that a woman told police officers that CB smacked the back of her head so hard that her weave came off. | Violence against women |
| Jul 2024 | CB and several members of his crew, including his 11:11 promoter Live Nation, are facing a lawsuit over an alleged assault that took place following CB’s concert in Fort Worth, Texas.
The lawsuit claims that CB and several accomplices “brutally and severely beat” four men backstage at Dickies Arena in an unprovoked attack following the show. The violence included Brown and his crew throwing chairs at them and repeatedly kicking, stomping, and beating the four men. CB and Live Nation are facing a second lawsuit over the same incident that took place, filed by a security guard who says he was “brutally and severely” beaten when he tried to break up the fight. |
Physical violence |
6. International Precedents and Advocacy History
The international response to Chris Brown’s history of violence underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada have taken significant steps to deny him entry, prioritising public safety and standing firmly against domestic violence.
In stark contrast, South Africa continues to grapple with a GBV pandemic that has persisted for over a decade, making it even more critical to examine these international precedents and take decisive action to support the fight against GBVF within our borders.
United Kingdom (2010):
Chris Brown planned a short tour in the UK and Ireland but was denied a visa by the UK Home Office due to his 2009 assault conviction involving Rihanna.
This decision aligned with policies that bar entry to individuals guilty of serious criminal offences. The UK Home Office stated, “We reserve the right to refuse entry to the UK to anyone guilty of a serious criminal offence. Public safety is one of our primary concerns. Each application to enter the UK is considered on its individual merits.”
Canada (2015):
In February 2015, Chris Brown confirmed that he was denied entry into Canada due to his criminal history, just hours before he was scheduled to perform the first two shows in Toronto. Brown later tweeted, “The good people of the Canadian government wouldn’t allow me entry. I’ll be back this summer and will hopefully see all my Canadian fans!”
Australia (2015):
In September 2015, Australian authorities formally issued a notice to refuse Chris Brown’s visa application, citing his substantial criminal record, particularly the domestic violence incident. The government emphasised its strong stance against domestic violence and its commitment to upholding strict immigration standards. As a result, Chris Brown cancelled his tour of Australia and New Zealand just seven days before the first scheduled show in December 2015.
On 29 September 2015, Chris Brown tweeted in response to Australia’s decision, highlighting the controversy surrounding his denial of entry. Additionally, during the same month, allegations surfaced that Chris Brown forcibly ejected a woman from his bus during a video shoot in Colorado when she refused to give up her cell phone. The woman claimed her phone was damaged and filed a report for third-degree assault. This incident demonstrates a continued pattern of violent and abusive behaviour, underscoring a lack of remorse for his past actions.
These international examples illustrate the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. They also serve as a reminder for South Africa to adopt similar measures to prioritise public safety and reject the normalisation of violence, particularly in the face of its GBVF crisis.
7. Big Concerts – Ethical stance, obligations and corporate responsibility
As South Africa’s largest concert service provider, Big Concerts holds a significant responsibility to take a firm ethical stance against violence and prioritise the safety and well-being of attendees at large-scale events, especially those with audiences exceeding 94,000 people.
By partnering with individuals who have well-documented histories of violence, Big Concerts risks contributing to a culture that normalises abusive behaviour and undermines the nation’s efforts to combat GBVF. This decision sends a troubling message to survivors and the broader public that fame and profit can outweigh accountability and justice.
Big Concerts must revisit its policies regarding selecting artists and influencers in the entertainment industry to ensure a safer and more respectful cultural environment. Aligning with individuals who embody values of respect, equality, and non-violence supports South Africa’s ongoing fight against GBV and demonstrates a commitment to ethical corporate responsibility.
Furthermore, Big Concerts should actively use its platform to promote awareness around GBV, incorporating initiatives such as safe spaces at events, anti-violence campaigns, and partnerships with local organisations advocating for survivors. By taking these steps, Big Concerts can contribute to a safer society and set a powerful example for the entertainment industry, proving that ethical leadership and cultural progress go hand in hand.
Ensuring Safety at Concerts
Concerts with large audiences, such as the anticipated 94,000 attendees for the Chris Brown event, demand stringent safety measures to protect all attendees and ensure an inclusive, secure environment.
A 2018 YouGov survey highlights the prevalence of unwanted sexual behaviour at UK music festivals, revealing alarming statistics. The study found that over 43% of women under 40 reported experiencing unwanted sexual behaviour at a festival.
The types of behaviour reported include:
- 29% of women recalled experiencing forceful dancing.
- 23% were subjected to sexualised language or verbal harassment.
- 17% experienced sexual assault while conscious.
- 6% were sexually assaulted while unconscious.
These findings underscore the critical need for robust safety measures and increased awareness at concerts and festivals to protect attendees from harassment and assault.
General Safety Measures:
What JOC (Joint Operations Committee) requirements have been met for this event, and what additional measures are in place given the size of the audience? What are the specific strategies for enhanced security at such a large concert?
Code of Conduct:
Does Big Concerts have a comprehensive Code of Conduct for attendees, staff, and performers, including a zero-tolerance policy for any form of assault or harassment (sexual, physical, or verbal)? How is this Code of Conduct communicated to attendees and enforced on the ground?
Inclusivity and Safety:
How does Big Concerts ensure that individuals of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, religions, ages, and abilities feel welcome and safe at their events? Are there specific measures to address safety for attendees with disabilities?
Handling Sexual Assault or Harassment:
What procedures are in place to handle cases of sexual assault, harassment, or rape during concerts? How are these incidents managed, and what immediate support is provided to victims?
Emergency Preparedness and Crowd Management:
What emergency exit strategies are in place to ensure attendees can leave the venue safely in the event of an incident? How will crowd management be handled to avoid chaos, particularly after the show has ended, similar to issues experienced during the Global Citizen Festival in 2018?
Artist and Crew Accountability:
According to an article by CBS News from 31 July 2024 it was stated:
“R&B star Chris Brown and his paid entourage brutally beat several men who attended Brown’s concert Saturday night in Fort Worth, according to a lawsuit. Brown performed at the Dickies Arena as part of his 11:11 tour.
After the show, the four plaintiffs and roughly 40 women were invited backstage to Chris Brown’s VIP area, an event promoted and marketed by LiveNation, according to the lawsuit filed on behalf of the four plaintiffs by The Buzbee Law Firm. When they entered the VIP area, the lawsuit states that Brown told all the women to put their phones on a table. Brown and his entourage then left, closed the door and stationed a security guard in front of it. …”
Furthermore, this article stated that just 30 minutes later, in the same backstage area, Chris Brown and his entourage were involved in a violent assault against four men.
According to the court documents, Chris Brown allegedly instructed his crew to attack and f*** them up, leading to a brutal altercation in a hallway. One man was struck in the chest and hit with a chair, while another was trapped on a staircase and subjected to a prolonged beating, including punches, kicks, and stomps to the head and body. Two additional men were also assaulted, with all victims requiring medical treatment. The article added that police reports have been filed, and at least one victim remained hospitalised for a couple of days with severe injuries. Source
Given the allegations against Chris Brown during his current tour, including a violent incident on 27 July 2024 in Fort Worth, Texas, who ensures that neither he nor his crew repeats such behaviour? What mechanisms are in place to hold performers and their entourages accountable for misconduct during or after the concert?
Demands for Big Concerts
- Cancel the Chris Brown Tour in South Africa and commit to accountability for performers and their teams.
- Implement a clear framework for holding performers and their teams accountable for past and present behaviour.
- Utilise concert screens, flyers, and posters in bathrooms to share empowering messages and provide resources for those affected by GBV.
- Set up dedicated safe spaces at the venue where attendees can report harassment, seek support, or take a break from overwhelming situations.
- Partner with organisations to have trained counsellors and safety ambassadors available on-site to assist distressed people.
- Require performers and their crews to sign agreements committing to non-violence and adherence to safety policies. Introduce monitoring measures to ensure compliance and swift action if misconduct occurs.
- Implement clear crowd control measures, including designated exit routes and trained personnel to guide attendees safely out of the venue. Ensure sufficient staffing to handle emergencies and avoid overcrowding or unsafe conditions.
- Collaborate with anti-GBV organisations to host pre-concert awareness campaigns educating attendees about GBV, consent, and respect.
Big Concerts must take a decisive and ethical stand by cancelling the Chris Brown tour in South Africa. Allowing a performer with a documented history of violence to take the stage, particularly in a country plagued by one of the highest rates of GBVF, sends a damaging message to survivors and the public.
This decision would demonstrate that Big Concerts prioritises safety, accountability, and the fight against GBV over profit and popularity.
By cancelling the Chris Brown tour and adopting stringent accountability measures, Big Concerts can set a precedent that aligns with South Africa’s efforts to combat GBVF and foster a culture of respect and non-violence in the entertainment industry.
8. Department of Home Affairs – Ethical stance, legal obligations and responsibility
The Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) has an ethical and legal responsibility to protect South Africans by ensuring individuals with documented histories of violence, like Chris Brown, are not granted visas to perform or earn an income in the country.
Allowing a convicted abuser entry undermines South Africa’s commitment to combating the GBV crisis and violates the principles of zero tolerance for GBV outlined in the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (NSP).
The NSP demands accountability and a zero-tolerance approach to violence, making it imperative for DOHA to align visa decisions with these values. By refusing entry, DOHA prioritises public safety, upholds the NSP’s commitments, and sets a strong precedent for accountability and justice.
Ensuring the Safety of South African Citizens
Stricter Criteria for Visa Approval:
Section 30 of South Africa’s Immigration Act No. 13 of 2002 outlines categories of individuals deemed “undesirable persons” who may be prohibited from entering or residing in the country. According to this section, a person can be declared undesirable if convicted of certain offences, including violent crimes.
Specifically, Section 30(1)(g) states that a person may be declared undesirable if they have been convicted of an offence and sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine.
Chris Brown’s 2009 conviction for assaulting Rihanna resulted in a felony charge and a sentence of five years probation, community service, and domestic violence counselling. In May 2014, he was further sentenced to 131 days in Los Angeles County Jail for violating his probation, making him ineligible for entry under Section 30 of the Immigration Act. Given Chris Brown’s 2009 felony conviction and his jail sentence in 2014 for violating probation, why has his eligibility for entry not been deemed inconsistent with the Act?
Ethical stance against violence:
Visa decisions must align with South Africa’s broader initiatives to address the GBV pandemic. How does granting Chris Brown entry into South Africa align with the government’s zero-tolerance stance on GBV as outlined in the National Strategic Plan? What message does allowing a convicted abuser with a history of jail time send to survivors of GBV and the broader public?
Is DOHA considering the potential harm caused by normalising such behaviour by allowing this individual to earn an income and gain a platform in the country?
Preventing Similar Cases in the Future:
What measures are in place to ensure thorough assessments of the criminal backgrounds of public figures before granting them visas?
Accountability:
How will DOHA use this case to show its commitment to ethical decision-making and prioritising the safety of South African citizens? How does the department ensure that decisions reflect South Africa’s values and its fight against GBV while educating the public on the importance of accountability?
Demands to the Department of Home Affairs
- In accordance with Section 30 of the Immigration Act, we demand that Chris Brown be declared an undesirable person due to his documented history of violence, including a felony assault conviction and subsequent jail time.
- Revoke Chris Brown’s visa or permit to enter South Africa. Allowing a convicted abuser to perform and earn income in the country directly contradicts the principles of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (NSP), which promotes zero tolerance for violence.
- Use this case as an opportunity to take accountability and educate the public about the importance of ethical decision-making and the broader implications of granting public platforms to individuals with violent histories.
- Ensure all visa decisions align with the zero-tolerance stance on GBV outlined in the NSP and other national strategies to address the GBV crisis.
- Provide transparency on visa decisions for high-profile individuals, ensuring public trust in applying the Immigration Act and alignment with South Africa’s fight against GBVF.
- Use this case to set a strong precedent that South Africa will not tolerate or normalise violence, especially by influential figures. Refusing entry to Chris Brown will convey that public figures are not above accountability.
DPHA should protect South African citizens and uphold the nation’s values. By granting a visa to Chris Brown, a convicted abuser with a documented history of violence, the department risks undermining the country’s fight against GBVF. Decisions like this must align with the principles of zero tolerance for GBV, as outlined in the National Strategic Plan, and prioritise the safety and dignity of survivors.
Refusing entry to individuals like Chris Brown not only upholds Section 30 of the Immigration Act but also sends a powerful message that South Africa does not tolerate violence, regardless of an individual’s influence.
9. Department of Sports, Art and Culture – Ethical stance, legal obligations and responsibility
The Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture is responsible for promoting cultural values that reflect South Africa’s commitment to equality, accountability, and non-violence. By endorsing Chris Brown’s concert despite his documented history of violence, the department contradicts the principles of the NSP on GBVF, which emphasises zero tolerance for violence.
Minister Gayton McKenzie’s public support for Chris Brown performing in South Africa sends a harmful message, prioritising entertainment over accountability and justice. The department must take a clear ethical stance by withdrawing support for this event and aligning its actions with the nation’s fight against GBV.
Ethical stance against GBVF
DASC is ethically responsible for promoting cultural values that reflect South Africa’s commitment to equality, accountability, and non-violence.
Vetting policy for artists:
Is there a policy to vet artists’ backgrounds before publicly endorsing or promoting their events? As a key institution in shaping the nation’s cultural landscape, the department must take a firm stance against GBV by supporting and endorsing artists who embody these values. By prioritising performers who align with principles of respect and integrity, the department can contribute meaningfully to the fight against GBV, reinforcing South Africa’s zero-tolerance stance on violence.
Justification for supporting the Chris Brown Concert:
How does the department justify supporting an event featuring a performer with a history of abuse, particularly in a country facing a GBV pandemic and during the same month as the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV?
DASC’s role in the 16 Days of Activism campaign:
What major events has DASC organised during the 16 Days of Activism?
Harmful messaging to survivors:
During a recent press briefing in October 2024, Minister Gayton McKenzie discussed the Chris Brown concert and described it as something South Africans had been looking forward to. According to media reports, McKenzie urged South Africans to attend the show, stating:
“South Africans love dancing… Chris Brown’s concert was sold out in two hours. Our people are hungry for international acts. Don’t go any further. Go to the Chris Brown concert.”
Does the DASC acknowledge the harmful message that Minister McKenzie’s statements send to survivors of GBV and the broader public
Demands to the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture
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- DASC must immediately withdraw its endorsement and support for the Chris Brown concert in light of his documented history of violence, which directly contradicts South Africa’s zero-tolerance stance on GBVF.
- Minister Gayton McKenzie and the DASC should issue a public statement addressing the concerns raised about Chris Brown’s history and clarifying how such endorsements align with the principles of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF. This statement must acknowledge the harm caused to survivors of GBV and their families by promoting such an artist.
- DASC should establish and enforce a policy to vet the backgrounds of artists and performers before publicly endorsing or promoting their events. This policy should prioritise artists who align with South Africa’s cultural values of equality, accountability, and non-violence, ensuring that those with histories of violence are not allowed to perform.
- The DASC must ensure that all decisions, endorsements, and initiatives are aligned with the principles of the NSP on GBVF, including zero tolerance for violence.
- Instead of supporting artists with violent histories, DASC should focus on hosting events and campaigns that raise awareness about GBVF, especially during 16 Days of Activism.
The DSCA must prioritise South Africa’s commitment to equality, accountability, and non-violence by withdrawing its support for the Chris Brown concert. Endorsing an artist with a history of violence undermines the principles of the NSP on GBVF.
We call on DASC and Minister Gayton McKenzie to take immediate action by issuing a public statement addressing these concerns, implementing a vetting policy for artists, and aligning all decisions with the nation’s zero-tolerance stance on GBVF. Furthermore, we urge the department to redirect its efforts toward hosting events and campaigns that amplify the fight against GBV and foster a culture of safety and accountability.
10. Conclusion
Allowing an abuser like Chris Brown to perform sends a harmful message to victims and survivors of GBVF. Such actions directly contradict the government’s commitment to zero tolerance for violence against women and should not be condoned.
We demand that Chris Brown’s concerts be cancelled to hold abusers accountable and to demonstrate that South Africa is serious about protecting its women and children. Like the four other countries that have banned him, South Africa must set a high standard for the safety and well-being of its citizens, aligning with its pledge to end violence against women and children.
Policy changes are urgently needed to ensure the safe livelihood of all, especially women, children, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. It is time to break the cycle of empty promises and ineffective action against GBV and reaffirm the government’s zero-tolerance stance with meaningful actions.
South Africa’s first national gender-based violence prevalence study, recently released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), highlights the devastating pandemic of GBVF in our country. It also exposes the entrenched rape culture, victim-blaming, and systemic failures within our justice system.
WFC launched this petition to urge policymakers to prioritise the safety and well-being of women and children in all their initiatives.
We call on our leaders and society to take meaningful action and show survivors that their voices matter. Together, we can create a safer, more equitable future for everyone, upholding the zero-tolerance promise made to combat GBV.
End.