Despite the “unhealthy” air quality in New York City due to Canada’s ongoing wildfires, Lizzo took to the outdoor stage at the 2023 Governors Ball on Friday. The “Good As Hell” singer addressed the environmental disasters during her headlining show, urging the audience to listen to the First Nations and indigenous people of the country, as well as the water protectors. Lizzo emphasized the need to have land to live on and love clean air.
Wearing a bright pink wig, silver bodysuit, and matching skirt, Lizzo put on a memorable show at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, performing hits such as “Special,” “About Damn Time,” and “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready).” Despite concerns that the event would be canceled due to the poor air quality, the three-day festival continued with performances from Ice Spice, Lil Uzi Vert, Kim Petras, Diplo, and many others.
Air Quality Index Reaches “Unhealthy” Levels
The poor air quality index (AQI) in New York City was caused by the smoke-induced haze from the wildfires in Canada. The AQI reached 405, a level that is considered “unhealthy” for everyone, on Wednesday. The city was covered under an orange sky, and residents were urged to stay indoors, especially the elderly, children, pregnant women, and people with lung or heart ailments. The smoke inhalation can cause heart disease, cognitive issues, and premature or preterm birth in pregnant women.
Dr. Purvi Parikh, an allergist and immunologist with the Allergy & Asthma Network, advised people to stay indoors on bad days, run a HEPA air purifier if they have one, keep windows closed, and wear masks outside, preferably higher-grade medical masks like N95 or KN95. Due to the smoky skies, local hospitals in NYC reported a significant increase in emergency room visits for asthma and other respiratory problems. Lenox Health Greenwich Village reported more than double the average number of asthma treatments.
Lizzo’s performance at the Governors Ball despite the unhealthy air quality in New York City emphasized the need to address environmental disasters and listen to the First Nations and indigenous people of the country. While the AQI reached “unhealthy” levels due to the smoke-induced haze from Canada’s wildfires, the festival continued with precautions advised by health experts.
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