Few people are as universally beloved as Dolly Parton.
Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians, celebrities, current and former presidents and others celebrating the life and work of the iconic singer-songwriter, philanthropist and entrepreneur who died Tuesday.
Parton will be remembered for her hit songs like “Jolene” and “Always Love You,” as well as her countless philanthropic efforts, including founding the Imagination Library, an organization that gives free books to children, and donating $1 million in 2020 to Moderna, which is credited with helping develop the COVID-19 vaccine.
She also brought her talent to the screen. In 1980, Parton starred in the comedy film 9 to 5 and released a hit song of the same name. Beneath the song’s upbeat melody and the film’s campy humor, both convey a powerful message that women deserve equal pay and treatment in the workplace.
“They make you dream just to watch them crumble/You’re just a step on the Boss Man’s ladder/But you’ve got a dream he can never take away,” Parton sings in the song’s second verse.
The song “perfectly captures the frustrations of working women and our dreams,” says Ellen Cassedy, author and co-founder of the working women’s advocacy group 9 to 5.
“[The song]starts with awakening and pride, and channeling that angry energy towards the boss,” Cassedy says. “And it evokes a sense of common purpose – ‘in the same boat with many friends’ – and ultimately ends in victory: ‘The tide will turn and everything will roll your way’… We all owe Dolly.”
The 9 to 5 organization started its movement in Boston in 1973 in response to the gender inequality women were experiencing in the workplace. This movement inspired Jane Fonda to make her 1980 film.
“For the first time, working people like us were the main characters on the big screen,” Cassedy says. “The American office was never the same after that.”
Through her songs, her advocacy, and her magnetic personality, Parton inspired women around the world to show up as themselves and build great things. Here is an example of what she meant to working women.
“Role model”
Parton chose to remain apolitical throughout her life, but promoted values such as inclusivity and equality that help fans of different backgrounds and identities feel supported.
“As a queer person, I’ve always admired the way she makes everyone feel included, regardless of their political or economic background,” says Erin Longbottom, director of digital engagement at the National Women’s Law Center, a gender justice advocacy group.
“Fearlessness in standing up against injustice and uplifting other women is at the heart of the work we seek to do at (NWLC),” they say. “In my work, I strive to convey Dory’s drive to speak truth to those in power, while also connecting with people on a deep human level.”
Karen Robinovitz, co-founder and co-CEO of Sloomoo Institute, which offers interactive slime experiences in nine locations across the United States, says she is “endlessly” inspired by Parton.
“Her ability to give back to the world while creating a global brand that brings pure joy to millions of people is iconic,” Robinowitz says. “She evoked authenticity, personal style, empowerment, uncompromising vision, philanthropy, and keen business acumen all at once. What more could you ask for in a role model?”
Jacq Tatelman, co-founder and CEO of State Bags, appreciates that Parton “had her own way of ‘having it all,'” she says. Mr. Tatelman followed Mr. Parton’s example and built a profitable business. Your purchase of State Bags supports America’s children and families in need through funding and material donations.
“Impossible contradiction”
In addition to Parton’s talent, her undeniable brand is also part of what made her stand out as a performer. However, without her dynamic personality and charm, her appearance may not have achieved such iconic status.
“[She]transcended an unlikely paradox that people in society so often ridicule: a woman who wears flashy hair and makeup and is unapologetic about expressing herself,” said psychologist and author Courtney Crisp. “I’ve always been so inspired by how she wears rhinestones and has big hair and still has so much strength and self-worth.”
“Even in the early days, a lot of people told me I should change my look, otherwise no one would take me seriously. I thought, ‘Yeah, they’ll see my talent and do that,'” Parton said in a 2022 podcast.
Ms. Parton’s pioneering confidence taught Ms. Crisp that women can be taken seriously and succeed without conforming to society’s standards, she says.
Nicole Houston, a media and public relations consultant based in Texas, said she has been “obsessed” with Parton since she was 5 years old. She will remember Parton “for who she was and what she stood for: perseverance, ambition, hard work, loyalty, humor and following your dreams,” Houston said.
“These are all traits that I try to practice and live through throughout every aspect of my career and life.”
Parton will be missed by many around the world, but her legacy will live on through her art and other endeavors.
“Our dreams (and hair) got bigger because Dolly told us to go the extra mile,” Houston says. “That’s how we should all honor her. Keep dreaming bigger.”
