As part of her collaboration with the National Network of Abortion Funds, singer Olivia Rodrigo made headlines during her St. Louis show on March12 for distributing free condoms and emergency contraceptive pills to concertgoers in Missouri. The state has been facing challenges to abortion rights following the repeal of Roe v. Wade, and Rodrigo's efforts to support reproductive health access have sparked attention amidst the ongoing debate.
Throughout her Guts World Tour, Rodrigo has partnered with local abortion groups to provide support and resources. Previous tour stops also featured the distribution of contraceptives, but the initiative in Missouri, where abortion has been heavily restricted since 2022, has garnered significant attention due to its conflict with state laws.
Olivia Rodrigo’s St. Louis Concert Hands Out Morning After Pills
The Missouri Abortion Fund, along with the pro-abortion group Right By You, were responsible for distributing the free Julie emergency contraceptive pills at Rodrigo's concert. Robin Frisella, Community Engagement Director at the Missouri Abortion Fund, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about abortion access and reducing stigma surrounding emergency contraception. Frisella emphasised the positive response from concert attendees, who were surprised and grateful for the opportunity to receive free contraceptives.
Julie, the company behind the emergency contraceptive pills, expressed gratitude for Rodrigo's support and reiterated their commitment to destigmatizing emergency contraception. They emphasised the importance of access, education, and empowerment in reproductive healthcare.
The actions at Rodrigo's concert come at a critical time for abortion rights in Missouri, where lawmakers have implemented severe restrictions on abortion. Despite efforts to introduce legislation to legalise abortion for victims of incest and rape, pro-life groups have pushed for further restrictions, including targeting IVF and criminalising access to emergency contraception.
Rodrigo's Fund 4 Good initiative, named after her hit song Good 4 You, directs a portion of ticket proceeds from her Guts World Tour to the National Network of Abortion Funds. Additionally, the initiative provides organisational support to local abortion groups at each tour stop, furthering awareness and support for reproductive health access.
Robin Frisella commended Rodrigo's initiative and highlighted the importance of empowering young people to take charge of their reproductive health. Frisella emphasised the curiosity and empowerment of Generation Z and underscored the significance of providing resources and education on reproductive healthcare.
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