Venues have a responsibility to ensure we are all safe when we attend events. I experienced inclement weather at a Stray Kids show in New York and the staff’s indecisiveness, overcrowding, and lack of proper response were dangerous, even leading to a stampede. That day was an eye-opener, highlighting the urgent need for standardized safety and communication protocols at all live event venues.

What happened at the show in D.C. was a disaster, even making headlines and being featured on the news.This disastrous and dangerous situation was fully preventable, as we have seen how Wrigley Field was proactive: their staff handed out free water all day to those waiting in line and at the venue, provided shade and misting fan cooling centers and moved very organized lines in an orderly fashion. In D.C., many people suffered, passed out and were even hospitalized because of the extreme heat. Although Nationals Park claims they provided ample water, shade and cooling rooms, we have seen the videos from people who attended the concert that prove otherwise. There are even videos of staff members actively ignoring people who needed medical attention and laughing at them. There was no clear communication across the board about water. Most people were made to throw away their bottles, some could bring in empty bottles and were pointed to water stations with extremely long lines to hot water. There was water available for purchase, with several people reporting completely different prices depending on the location in the park and the time of day. The talent performing asked about purchasing water for people at the concert and eventually ended up giving out all of their own personal water. They took it upon themselves to stop the show several times to request help for those having medical emergencies. This absolutely was not their responsibility and it is not only extremely concerning that it came to this, but it is highly embarrassing that the artists had to get involved at all.

The lines outside were unorganized, confusing and not moving quickly enough, leaving people to bake in the extreme temperatures for hours. Most report that staff and security were unclear on procedures and vague about directions to amenities. This is unacceptable. 

Hundreds of paying customers were forced to miss VIP soundcheck because the venue did not have enough staff to check all of the bags and move the line in a quick, orderly fashion. People who came to line up at the correct time set by the venue were overheating and had the gates shut in their faces to miss out on what they paid hundreds of dollars to see, all due to the negligence of the venue and Live Nation.

With events organized by giants like Live Nation and Ticketmaster attracting massive crowds, it's crucial for these companies to ensure that all venues under their management adhere to stringent and consistent safety standards. This is especially pertinent during extreme weather conditions such as heat advisories or when sudden inclement weather strikes.

Venues must provide enough shade and water stations, and implement cooling measures to protect attendees from heat-related illnesses. Clear signage and an informed staff are essential so that ticket holders can easily locate amenities like water stations and first aid points. All staff must be trained in all elements of the events and able to clearly communicate to attendees. Not only is this a matter of comfort, but it's about preventing unnecessary health risks.

Equally important is effective organization of lines and waiting areas, minimizing the time attendees spend exposed to extreme conditions. Minimized waiting times can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related incidents and improve the overall event experience. To ensure attendee safety, venues should also have medics and trained staff on standby.

Live Nation and Ticketmaster has an obligation to revisit, review and revise their policies and enforce clear, actionable standards across ALL of their events. This includes proactive communication measures that inform and guide attendees effectively, ensuring everyone knows how to reach safety services swiftly if needed.

By signing this petition, we call on Live Nation and Ticketmaster to honor their duty towards the safety and well-being of their patrons. It’s time to put safety first at all events. Let's make our voices heard to demand safer venues for all event attendees.