Olivia Rodrigo’s debut festival, Daisy Chain Fields, received acclaim for its exclusively female lineup and its philanthropic focus on reproductive rights and combating gender-based violence. However, the event is facing criticism from two vendors who claim they faced unfavorable working conditions and have yet to be compensated correctly for their services.
The single-day festival attracted hordes of fans to Great Park in Irvine, California, to enjoy performances by Chappell Roan, Doechii, Mitski, Bikini Kill, and Rodrigo herself. All artists volunteered their time, and the festival’s proceeds were directed towards supporting 10 organizations dedicated to advancing women’s rights, including Planned Parenthood, National Women’s Law Center, Black Mamas Matter, and the National Institute for Reproductive Health.
Initially raising $10 million, the festival’s funds were later doubled to $20 million through a matching donation by Melinda French Gates. However, more than a month after the festival concluded, two vendors have come forward to express their dissatisfaction with their festival experience.
Mary Chacon, the owner of Ugly Oats Kitchen, penned an open letter to Olivia Rodrigo on Instagram, alleging non-payment for their sales and inadequate working conditions as per their contract. Chacon highlighted challenges such as incomplete information from the subcontractor managing food vendors, DLS Events, and the distant placement of the staff food area from their booth.
Despite being warned of fines for food shortages, Chacon baked numerous cookies, resulting in minimal sales, which she attributes to organizational shortcomings. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in a historic feminist event, Chacon hopes for improved vendor experiences in the future.
CBC News has sought comments from Rodrigo’s team, event producer C3 Presents, and the vendors’ management companies, DLS Events, and Jetty Event Productions, as highlighted by Chacon.
Following Ugly Oats Kitchen’s post, custom fortune cookie company Por Suerte shared a similar experience, emphasizing the importance of recognizing vendors as essential contributors to such events. The business, operated solely by Veronica Licha Lopez, reported inadequate communication from organizers and significant financial losses.
Rodrigo has not addressed the criticisms publicly. Daisy Chain Fields stands out as the first charity music festival focusing on women’s and reproductive rights, distinct from past events like Live Aid and Lady Gaga’s fundraisers. Despite concerns raised by local authorities over logistical issues during the festival, city officials have expressed readiness to host the event again next year.
Rodrigo’s advocacy for reproductive rights extends beyond the festival, with her vocal opposition to abortion bans as evidenced before Daisy Chain Fields. She has actively supported women-focused charities during her tours and remains committed to these causes during her current Unraveled tour.
Reflecting on the festival, Rodrigo shared on social media that the event marked a significant moment in her career, symbolizing collective optimism for positive change and underscoring our shared concern for humanity.
