Chris Brown Responds To Visa Ban; Wants To Campaign In Australia Against Domestic Violence
"My life mistakes should be a wake up call for everyone."
After clarifying that his Australian visa was “currently being considered by the office of the Immigration Minister” with a fairly formal statement on Instagram two days ago, Chris Brown has now deleted that message in favour of a more emotional plea on Twitter. Given 28 days to present his case to be granted entry into the country, the R’n’B singer is now arguing his presence would help Australia’s campaign against domestic violence.
Posting the messages just hours after he was in court finalising his extended five-year probation for assaulting Rihanna in 2009, Brown suggested his experiences of reformation could be useful.
“My life mistakes should be a wake up call for everyone,” he said. Then, stating the message is better heard through entertainers rather than parents or government PSAs, he suggested speaking on the issue to “[try] to prevent spousal abuse”. “[I can] show the world that mistakes don’t define you.”
I would be more than grateful to come to Australia to raise awareness about domestic violence.Im not the pink elephant in the room anymore
— Chris Brown (@chrisbrown) September 29, 2015
My life mistakes should be a wake up call for everyone. Showing the world that mistakes don't define you. Trying to prevent spousal abuse
— Chris Brown (@chrisbrown) September 29, 2015
The youth don't listen to parents nor do they listen to PSA's. The power that we have as Entertainers can change lives.
— Chris Brown (@chrisbrown) September 29, 2015
If it went ahead, this would be Chris Brown’s first formal activism against domestic violence. It would also come just a few months after his last allegation of assault. Over the past few years, Brown’s been implicated in a number of instances of violence and his initial probation was extended multiple times due to various offences. In 2013, he was charged with felony assault after punching a male fan on the street and allegedly yelling homophobic slurs.
While there’s undoubtedly much to be gained from Brown mounting a public awareness campaign and standing accountable for his prior actions, it seems unlikely this will hold up as a reason for the government to waive his ban. It’ll be interesting to see if he’s so keen to follow through with it when not profiting from a nationwide arena tour.
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Feature image via Chris Brown/Facebook.
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If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
Men can access anonymous confidential telephone counselling to help to stop using violent and controlling behaviour through the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.