Reproductive rights have been a central focus of singer Olivia Rodrigo’s latest tour for her album, ‘GUTS.’ Early this year, Rodrigo launched her global non-profit, Fund 4 Good, dedicated to achieving an equitable world for women and girls, ending gender-based violence, and supporting people seeking reproductive healthcare. Proceeds from ticket sales from the tour have been used to support the cause.
To continue to raise awareness of injustices against reproductive rights, Rodrigo has partnered with local chapters of the National Network of Abortion Funds. Most recently, on her tour in Missouri, a fan reported that they received Plan B, condoms, and information for an abortion hotline from the abortion fund workers. However, this raised concerns among many anti-abortion extremists, who believed that because children were at the concert, this was inappropriate. In addition, a Missouri State Senator responded, “As the father of a daughter, I am horrified by this,” and that Rodrigo “should be ashamed.” Rodrigo’s team announced they would no longer distribute emergency contraception at her shows.
Missouri is one of the 14 states where nearly all abortions are illegal. The law makes no exception for rape or incest; the only exceptions are for medical emergencies that threaten the life of the pregnant person. Yet still, Plan B, an over-the-counter emergency contraceptive, is available in pharmacies with no age requirement. However in certain states, pharmacists are able to refuse to fill prescriptions, because of a “conscience clause.” A conscience clause allows healthcare professionals to deny medical care and assistance based on personal beliefs. After the overturning of Roe v. Wade, many states have implemented clauses like this to further restrict reproductive rights.
Access and awareness of contraceptives should not be something that young people are shielded from. Too often, state-by-state decisions prevent accessibility to reproductive care. It is time to have the “GUTS” to fight back.
