Written by Jaclyn Owens
Dolly Parton is an iconic figure in Tennessee culture. From her music to her philanthropy, she is a kind, generous woman who changed the world with the power of her voice.
Two representatives, Weiler Powell and Trace Nystrom, presented bill 24-2-12 to the Red House on Friday afternoon titled “Dolly Parton Day.” In summary, the goal is to replace Robert E. Lee Day on January 19th with Dolly Parton Day. During their presentation, the delegates cited their reasoning for proposing this day as a state holiday is that the day would honor the values of Dolly Parton: “compassion, generosity, and cultural harmony.” In addition, they argued that Robert E. Lee Day reminds citizens of the tragic history of slavery in the country. The bill would replace this day, therefore shifting the focus away from a time when the country was divided.
During the pro-con debate, many different perspectives were addressed. During the first pro round, a delegate questioned, “Do you believe replacing Dolly Parton Day with Robert E. Lee Day will create a better message of inclusivity to the state?” The delegates answered yes to this question, saying that Dolly Parton is a symbol of inclusivity. Her organization “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library” is a nonprofit organization that gifts free books to children no matter the family’s income. The organization has donated over 2 million books to children across the world. Powell and Nystrom used her organization as an example of her charitable work and inclusivity. Their hope is that the establishment of Dolly Parton Day will encourage Tennesseans to donate to the Imagination Library.
In their presentation, the delegates said that Dolly Parton Day will “encourage people to join in on the philanthropic endeavors that she has made throughout her career.” Dolly Parton promotes inclusivity with the example of the Imagination Library, and she is a strong example of the character that Tennesseans should uphold.
During the final pro round, a speaker addressed the floor stating that, “While this bill may appear trivial[…]it sets an important precedent to celebrate those who have benefited our state. While Lee was an important historical figure,[…]he has no connection with Tennessee[…]. Dolly Parton, on the other hand, is one of the most famous Tennesseans of our time. She has helped millions of children, including myself, gain access to quality books in addition to aiding in the horrid forest fires that struck the Smokies four years ago. I urge the passage of this bill to ensure we celebrate Tennessee heroes now and for years to come.” This speech describes who Dolly is to many Tennesseans and who Robert E. Lee is. While he was an important figure, his ideals do not align with those of today. However, Dolly Parton serves as a symbol of Tennessee through her compassion and philanthropy.
In the summation of their presentation, the delegates urged the passage of their bill to leave the past behind and look toward the future. They acknowledged the positive effect that Dolly Parton has had on the state. She has changed the lives of people in the state of Tennessee and the world. They reminded their peers that the day would remind citizens of her charitable work and encouraged them to donate to her organizations.
To end, Powell and Nystrom promised to work “9 to 5 to get this bill passed.” Not surprisingly, the bill passed with flying colors, highlighting the impact that Dolly Parton has had on the lives of Tennesseans.
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