US Pop Star Stops Distributing 'Contraceptives' at Concert... What About Domestic Cases?

Solidarity with Pro-Abortion Rights Groups
Distribution Halted Amid Conservative Backlash

American pop star Olivia Rodrigo (21) stopped distributing contraceptives and medication at her concert venue after backlash from conservative groups. Rodrigo reportedly held the event to advocate for abortion rights.

Pop star Olivia Rodrigo [Photo by Yonhap News]

On the 15th (local time), multiple local media outlets reported that Rodrigo, in solidarity with abortion rights advocacy groups, distributed contraceptives and medication at her concert but halted the distribution due to opposition from conservative factions.

Rodrigo, who began her 'Guts' world tour in late last month, is participating in the global campaign 'Fund 4 Good' during her performances. Rodrigo's team stated, "We want to help create an equitable and fair future for all women and girls, and those seeking freedom in reproductive health," and decided to donate a portion of the proceeds to 'Fund 4 Good.' In particular, they are cooperating with the nationwide 'Abortion Fund Network' to help ensure that those affected by systemic racism, misogyny, and medical barriers receive the reproductive care they rightfully deserve.

The abortion rights group set up a special booth at Rodrigo's concert in St. Louis, Missouri, distributing emergency contraceptive pills, condoms, and stickers containing information about abortion treatment to attendees free of charge.

However, backlash arose from conservative groups. Missouri prohibits abortion except in cases of rape or incest. Facing the backlash, Rodrigo's team decided to stop distributing contraceptives inside the concert venue, citing the rationale that "children attend the concerts."

The issue of women's abortion rights has become a central point of contention between factions in the United States ahead of the presidential election. Last year, with abortion rights as a key issue, the Democratic Party won a series of victories in state referendums and legislative elections, leading to talk of the U.S. presidential election being a referendum on abortion rights.

Singer BIBI [Photo by Yonhap News]

There have been cases of distributing contraceptives during performances domestically as well. In 2021, singer BIBI performed a routine at the 'Head In the Clouds Festival' where she threw contraceptives into the crowd.