Because of Chris Brown

Chris Brown can’t escape his past. Three years after he pleaded guilty to felony assault against his then-girlfriend Rihanna, his name still conjures up thoughts of domestic violence.

For a full day, Twitter users have been using the trending topic #BecauseofChrisBrown to spark an honest discussion of the entertainer’s contributions to society. Tweets have referenced his talent, his violent past and yes, plenty of off-color jokes about abusing women.

The trending topic went global yesterday with no clear catalyst, according to Topsy Analytics. With 65,000 mentions and counting, it shows no signs of abating anytime soon.