Photo Credit: Olivia Rodrigo’s Instagram
Olivia Rodrigo is dedicated to supporting abortion funds in the US but has faced criticism for her team’s decision to stop the distribution of items like condoms and emergency contraception at her concerts.
Renowned pop artist Olivia Rodrigo has been an advocate for women’s rights and has actively participated in raising funds for abortion initiatives across the country. She has allowed these organizations to set up booths at her shows in states where reproductive rights are restricted post the Roe v. Wade decision.
Reports from Jezebel revealed that Rodrigo’s team has prohibited organizers and fund workers from distributing emergency contraception, condoms, or lubricant at her shows due to concerns raised over the accessibility of these items to minors attending the concerts.
The dissemination of images showing condoms and emergency contraception being handed out at Olivia Rodrigo’s performances gained widespread attention on social media and attracted international media coverage, mostly positive in nature.
Opposition from conservative figures in states with restricted abortion laws has been significant, as noted by Jezebel. Missouri senator Bill Eigel inaccurately claimed that Plan B functions as an abortifacient rather than a method of pregnancy prevention.
Following the recent St. Louis concert, the National Network of Abortion Funds (NNAF) communicated with local funds in upcoming concert cities, informing them of the management’s decision to restrict the distribution of contraceptive supplies and lubricant out of concern for underage attendees. Instead, they will focus on distributing stickers, buttons, beanies, and resource brochures.
Destini Spaeth, Chair of the Prairie Abortion Fund, emphasized the importance of offering these items at events to bridge the gaps in communities where comprehensive sex education and healthcare are lacking. She expressed gratitude towards Rodrigo for shedding light on their cause and aiding in fundraising efforts. Spaeth stressed the positive impact of young individuals having access to emergency contraception and condoms.
Spaeth further emphasized the challenges faced by abortion funds post the Dobbs decision of 2022 and urged for support in their community care initiatives. The misconception that Olivia Rodrigo personally provided emergency birth control like Plan B at her shows has been clarified by organizations like the Carolina Abortion Fund (CAF).
Justine Orlovsky-Schnitzler, Director of Engagement at CAF, clarified that it is the funds and mutual aid groups, not Olivia Rodrigo, who have facilitated the distribution of emergency contraception. While expressing gratitude for Rodrigo’s public support, she emphasized the collective efforts of the organizations involved.
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