Olivia Rodrigo hosted Daisy Chain Fields, a benefit concert in Irvine, California, raising $20 million for women’s well-being. Inspired by ’90s pop-rock feminism, Rodrigo united a women-led lineup, including Chappell Roan, Doechii, and Bikini Kill. The event focused on women’s health, workplace protections, and legal rights.
Rodrigo announced that the concert raised $10 million for 10 nonprofit partners like Planned Parenthood and National Women’s Law Center. Melinda French Gates contributed an additional $10 million through Pivotal Ventures. Rodrigo emphasized the significance of collective strength, stating, “That’s why I fell in love with the name ‘Daisy Chain’.”
Roan and Slevin highlighted music’s role in mobilization. Slevin emphasized connection within activist groups as crucial. She stated, “Music brings people together.” The festival’s “philanthropy village” offered fans a chance to learn about nonprofit work, with organizations engaging attendees through booths and installations.
Daisy Chain Fields echoed influences like Lilith Fair, founded by Sarah McLachlan to promote women in music. McLachlan performed alongside Rodrigo. Caren Spruch from Planned Parenthood underscored the importance of reaching people through concerts, particularly amid challenges to reproductive rights.
Melissa Shaw, attending with her daughter, lauded Rodrigo’s focus on diverse organizations, such as Black Mamas Matter Alliance, emphasizing their importance in maternal health. She valued Rodrigo’s example for her daughter.
Sonya Passi from FreeFrom and Ai-jen Poo from National Domestic Workers Alliance praised the festival as a symbol of community and care. Poo stressed the importance of connecting across generations for meaningful change.
Beneficiaries, such as Black Mamas Matter Alliance and National Women’s Law Center, appreciated the flexibility in funding. Uma Iyer from the Women’s Law Center noted the gift’s impact on staff morale and budgetary needs.
Jennifer Fahy from Farm Aid recognized Rodrigo’s generational embrace of advocacy through events. She celebrated Rodrigo’s initiative to share her platform with causes close to her heart.