Comic boycotts race riot town

Bill Cosby has cancelled a show in protest over black rights.

Activists have called on performers to boycott the city of Cincinnati because of its response to race riots.

Unrest hit the streets for three days last year after a white police officer shot dead a black man, and was acquitted.

The 64-year-old comic said: "I feel very uncomfortable playing the concerts at this time in this climate."

The Coalition for a Just Cincinnati called for economic sanctions until city leaders pay more attention to police, racial and economic issues.

The Cincinnati Arts Association's president, Steve Loftin, said: "We are deeply disappointed at the cancellation."

More than 3,000 tickets had been sold to Cosby's two scheduled shows on March 15.

Published: 7 Feb 2002