Beyoncé Asked to Donate “XO” Proceeds to Challenger Learning Center

‘Mo Money Mo Problems:‘ Artists never seem to be able to get to a certain level of success, without someone coming after them for something they’ve done. Since the release of her new single “XO,” Beyoncé has come under scrutiny by NASA, astronauts and family members for her use of audio from the space shuttle Challenger explosion. Now, the R&B superstar is being asked to donate proceeds from the track.

A petition has started on Care2 calling for Bey to donate 25% of the song’s proceeds to Challenger Learning Center, a nonprofit group founded and maintained by families of the fallen Challenger astronauts.

“Challenger is one of those tragedies that is perpetually a very raw wound for everyone, especially those in the space industry, and I believe that it should never be treated as anything but,” said Sarah McNulty, who works in the aerospace industry and lives on Florida’s Space Coast. “It’s never okay to trivialize a tragedy, but trivializing a tragedy such as Challenger, which was meant to be an inspirational mission to enlighten and inspire the nation and give us heroes to look up to, is a crime,” she added.

According to a press release sent to HipHollywood, the petition has already gathered the support of more than 3,500 signees.

Beyoncé previously released a statement explaining the use of the audio. “The song ‘XO’ was recorded with the sincerest intention to help heal those who have lost loved ones and to remind us that unexpected things happen, so love and appreciate every minute that you have with those who mean the most to you,” she said. “The songwriters included the audio in tribute to the unselfish work of the Challenger crew with hope that they will never be forgotten.”

We know she doesn’t need the money, but what do you think?? Should Bey and her label donate the proceeds?

[HipHollywood]