Chris Brown received a congressional recognition during his concert with Usher in Texas, but the honor has already sparked controversy because of his history of assault convictions.
U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett presented Brown and Usher with Congressional Record recognitions during their R&B Tour stop at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Saturday.
Crockett described the moment as a celebration of Black culture and said she wanted to document it in the Congressional Record.
Right now, we are experiencing Black joy to the highest level. And I wanted to make sure we document that at the Congressional level.
The recognition praises both singers for their contributions to R&B. Producer RoccStar, who said he helped connect Brown with lawmakers, also celebrated the honor.
However, Brown’s recognition quickly drew criticism online. Critics pointed to his 2009 felony assault conviction involving Rihanna, as well as his more recent legal troubles.
Crockett has not publicly responded to the backlash.