Tens of thousands of music enthusiasts gathered at Great Park in Irvine, California, this past weekend to enjoy performances from their favorite artists at a groundbreaking event aimed at supporting women’s health, reproductive rights, and combating gender-based violence.
The inaugural charity festival, Daisy Chain Fields, was organized by popular singer Olivia Rodrigo, following the legacy of the 1990s’ pioneering Lilith Fair, which featured an all-female lineup. The festival showcased a mix of established and emerging stars, including Chappell Roan, Doechii, Bikini Kill, and Garbage.
Before the festival kicked off, Rodrigo revealed that they had raised $10 million for the event’s ten non-profit partners, such as Planned Parenthood and the Black Mamas Matter Alliance. This amount was later matched by Melinda French Gates, bringing the total funds raised to $20 million.
Rodrigo had announced the festival back in June, emphasizing that all proceeds from the event would go towards charities supporting the advancement of women and girls. The festival also featured special guest appearances, with Alanis Morissette stepping in for Karen O to perform her hit song “Ironic” with Rodrigo, making a notable lyrical change to reflect inclusivity.
The event celebrated the contributions of women in the music industry and beyond, with Lilith Fair founder Sarah McLachlan joining Rodrigo on stage for several performances. Rodrigo explained that the festival’s name, “Daisy Chain,” symbolizes the unity and strength that can be achieved when individual elements come together.
Against the backdrop of ongoing challenges to reproductive rights in the U.S., Rodrigo and the participating artists highlighted the importance of supporting women’s rights and empowerment. The festival not only featured musical performances but also included various art installations and exhibits, offering attendees a holistic experience.
Attendees had the opportunity to engage with different non-profit organizations at the Daisy Chain Reaction philanthropy village, fostering a sense of community and support. The festival’s success and the funds raised were praised by the non-profit partners, emphasizing the unity and resilience of the movement for women’s rights and gender equality.