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Beyonce

Beyonce’s half-time Super Bowl show has been branded a “race-baiting stunt” by the organisers of a protest against the singer.

The American superstar’s performance was watched by an estimated 112 million people but drew praise and consternation.

Beyonce’s dancers donned berets and wore all black, similar to the style of the Black Panther Party, as she sang her new single Formation.

At one point during their routine, the dancers formed an “X’’ on the field, which some people are taking as a tribute to slain black activist Malcolm X.

In addition, they raised a fist to the sky, reminiscent of the black power salutes of the 1960-70s, made popular internationally by Tommie Smith and John Carlos, who raised their fists to the sky after winning gold and bronze at the 1968 Olympics.

Several people applauded Beyonce and said she had embraced the history of black activism and of her own identity. But many have complained that she brought politics to a sports event.

Former New York City mayor Rudolph Giuliani accused Beyonce of using her performance for a politically charged attack on police officers.

“This is football, not Hollywood, and I thought it was really outrageous that she used it as a platform to attack police officers who are the people who protect her and protect us, and keep us alive,” said Giuliani.

He said he would have preferred ‘decent wholesome entertainment’.

“What we should be doing in the African-American community, and all communities, is build up respect for police officers.”

Organisers of the “Anti-Beyonce Protest Rally” said they were “offended” by the show which they believe “glorified” the Black Panthers.

The webpage says: “Are you offended as an American that Beyoncé pulled her race-baiting stunt at the Superbowl?

“Do you agree that it was a slap in the face to law enforcement? Do you agree that the Black Panthers was/is a hate group which should not be glorified?

“Come and let’s stand together. Let’s tell the NFL we don’t want hate speech & racism at the Superbowl ever again!”

The rally is due to take place outside the NFL’s headquarters in New York on February 16. It is not known how many people will attend. – Sky News.