Women's groups call on fans to boycott Brown's gig over Rihanna attack

Their plea comes a day after Brown was forced to abandon a gig in Georgetown, Guyana, following protests from women's groups.

Brown (23), who assaulted his then-girlfriend Rihanna in 2009, is due to perform in the O2 in Dublin on December 23.

Paula McGovern, of Sonas Housing Association, told the Herald: "We would urge people to take into account what he has done to Rihanna and the fact that he is an abuser when deciding whether you are going to see Chris Brown or not."

Sonas Housing offers support, refuge and housing to women and children made homeless because of domestic and gender-based violence.

Ms McGovern described Dublin hip-hop act Original Rudeboys' refusal to support Brown for his gig in the O2 as "fantastic".

"People need to show that they don't tolerate domestic violence."

statements

Women's Aid said it would prefer people to donate money to support those who have suffered domestic violence rather than buy tickets for the concert.

"Women's Aid would encourage anyone who is thinking of buying a ticket for the concert in December to think again and donate the ticket price to charities that support women and children affected by domestic violence," the organisation said.

Brown's gig in Georgetown was cancelled after women's rights protestors and opposition lawmakers released statements making it clear that Brown was not welcome.

The Original Rudeboys have spoken out about domestic abuse in the past and believe that supporting Brown on the Irish leg of his tour would be hypocritical.

"With our single Blue Eyes being about domestic violence, it goes against everything we're about," said band member Sean Walsh.

hnews@herald.ie