CONTENT WARNING: The following article discusses alleged rape
An Australian woman who accused Riff Raff of rape, leading promoters to cancel the American rapper’s Australian tour last week, is due to speak publicly at a panel event in Melbourne later this week.
Eliza Stafford, who accused Riff Raff (real name Horst Christian Simco) of drugging and raping her in 2013, is scheduled to take part in a fundraising event organised by advocacy group LISTEN at Melbourne’s Corner Hotel on Friday, 8th June — the very same day Riff Raff was previously scheduled to perform at the venue.
The event, titled ‘State Of Play’, will host “a community-focused evening of discussion and music”, organisers say.
A panel discussion about the #MeToo movement and Australia’s music industry will see Stafford discuss her personal experiences alongside LISTEN’s Katie Pearson, musician Simona Castricum and Noisey‘s Australian Editor Shaad D’Souza.
‘State Of Play’ will also feature the launch of LISTEN’s new database for female, non-binary, trans and gender non-conforming musicians and DJs, to help them get noticed. Artists who feature on the database will also be performing on the night.
After cancelling Riff Raff’s scheduled performance at The Corner Hotel last week, venue operators said they are “working tirelessly to ensure the venue is a safe and inclusive space for everybody and we don’t condone sexual harassment and assault of any kind”.
Catch all the ticket details for ‘State Of Play’, below. All proceeds will go to non-profit organisations, organisers say.
If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732.
For help or information regarding mental health, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
‘State Of Play’: Listen List Launch & Fundraiser
Friday, 8th June
Corner Hotel, Melbourne (18+)
Tickets: Eventbrite
