Following allegations that Grammy-winning singer R. Kelly “held women against their will in a cult,” more than 32,000 people have signed a petition to urge Sony Music Entertainment to drop Kelly from its label.
» RELATED: Why do people still love R. Kelly, and what does that say about us?
The Care2 petition points out that the singer continues to tour and get honored at events such as BET’s Soul Train Awards regardless of the allegations.
“We must not let habitual abusers float above justice simply because they are rich and famous. Let’s work together to turn R. Kelly into a symbol for victim’s rights, reminding abusers everywhere that no one is untouchable.”
» RELATED: R. Kelly accused of abusing women, running 'cult' in Johns Creek
Reports of the allegations published last week by BuzzFeed claim the singer held women between the ages 18-26 captive in his Chicago and Atlanta properties, dictating “what they eat, how they dress, when they bathe, when they sleep, and how they engage in sexual encounters that he records.”
Kelly’s lawyer, Linda Mensch, said Kelly “unequivocally denies” the allegations.
» RELATED: Alleged R. Kelly victim from Atlanta: ‘I’m in a happy place’
As of Tuesday morning, the petition has garnered 32,573 supporters, just short of its 35,000 goal.
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