#MuteRKelly: Councilwoman Seeks To Eliminate R. Kelly's Public Platform In Philadelphia
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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – R. Kelly's music could be removed from Philadelphia radio playlists in the near future. A councilwoman proposed a resolution to ban R. Kelly from having a public platform in Philadelphia.
Councilwoman Helen Gym released her proposal Thursday to show support and solidarity for the #MuteRKelly campaign.
The movement was created in 2017 to ban R. Kelly's music from airwaves following the resurgence of new sexual abuse allegations.
"We reject a system that silences Black women and accepts black pain. We believe survivors. R. Kelly is not welcome in Philadelphia," Gym said in a tweet.
The resolution seeks to protect victims of violence, particularly black women, stating, "Victims of violence and abuse who are people of color, and particularly Black women, rarely receive proportionate news coverage, and are often portrayed as crime victims or crime perpetrators and blamed for their own victimization."
"I am here to support the work and struggle of Black women and all women who are fighting against patriarchy and rape culture. For too long, R. Kelly and predators like him have relied on all of us to turn our backs on Black women and girls," said Councilwoman Helen Gym. "The system has failed Black children and women."
"We all have a responsibility to prevent sexual abuse and exploitation, and to seek accountability when it occurs," the resolution stated. "We acknowledge the vulnerability of Black girls, and make a commitment to show up for and stand with them."
Alleged victims have accused R. Kelly of sexual abuse dating back to the mid-1990's.
The resolution is scheduled for a vote Jan. 31.
