Heartbreaking news silenced the entertainment, country music, and humanitarian communities all around the globe: Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80. Parton, a singer, actress, advocate, and fierce humanitarian, was known to many as the greatest country singer of all time. But aside from Parton’s influence through music, she also became an iconic face on the movie screen, known for her hit roles as “Doralee Rhodes” in the famous comedy Nine to Five along with her portrayal as Truvy Jones in the tearjerking but heartfelt story, Steel Magnolias. Parton was committed to helping others in need, with her iconic theme park, “Dollywood”, along with her book gifting program, the Imagination Library. Dolly Parton did almost anything one could imagine. She was a kind human being, an advocate for human rights, and a loyal friend to many. The mere mention of Dolly Parton could bring a smile to anyone’s face, with tributes pouring in from celebrities all around the country, including goddaughter Miley Cyrus, costars Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, all of the country music community, and many more.
Dollywood
Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the 165 acre theme park “Dollywood” welcomes families to an all ages theme park and resort, with attractions including roller coasters, water parks, lodge-style resorts, and many different live shows. Co-owned by Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment, Dollywood transformed the economic status of East Tennessee, employing 4,500 workers, and becoming the largest employer in Sevier County, causing over 23,000 job opportunities around the park to flourish due to its financial success. At its core, Dollywood is a place that spreads joy to people of all ages, but also creates a community in Tennessee for people to live comfortably while maintaining steady employment.
Human rights advocacy
Parton’s impact reached far beyond her music and iconic theme park; she was also a loyal advocate and ally to the LGBTQ+ community. She consistently used her platform to speak out against bigotry and hate towards the trans community. In a 2016 interview, Parton spoke about the North Carolina anti-trans bathroom law stating, “I think everybody should be treated for respect. I don’t judge people, and I try not to get caught up in the controversy of things.” An ally like Parton with the global reach she had was significant to many in these communities. She provided a safe and comfortable space through her platform where people would be promised love, support, and a reminder that anyone could be what they desired.
THe Imagination LIbrary
One of Dolly’s most generous initiatives for giving back to the community is her Imagination Library. The library spans across five countries, and is committed to spreading the love of reading by providing free books to children from birth until five years old. Across the globe, over three million kids are registered for the library, and over three hundred million books have been distributed, free of charge, through Parton’s program. The Imagination Library is co-funded by Parton’s “Dollywood Foundation”, along with contributions from several local community partners. Dolly’s wish for this program was to expand the joy of reading, and to inspire kids to pursue their dreams. In a quote about the library’s purpose, she stated, “The seeds of dreams are often found in books and the seeds you help plant in your community can grow across the world.”
Parton’s Legacy
Parton’s impact over these past 80 years has reached communities all around the world. She was a helping hand to those in need, a heartwarming voice to listen to on the drive home, and a familiar face on the big screen in some of the most iconic movies of all time. She expanded access to childhood education, causing a ripple effect of easing new parents into their children’s early years. While her loss is a tremendous hit to pop culture, country music, and several other industries, I strongly recommend you pour yourself a cup of ambition, turn on Steel Magnolias and keep in mind that Dolly Parton’s legacy will always be remembered.