An Open Apology To Dolly Parton
Dear Dolly,
I’ll be honest. I used to think you were a bimbo. I used to think you flaunted your big boobs, teased hair, tiny waist, and your syrupy-sweet southern accent to sell yourself and your brand as a country singer. Granted, I was raised in the Midwest and lived as an adult for many years in the Northeast. I didn’t get you, much less the South.
For example, I’d heard about your origins as a poor girl from the hills of East Tennessee, and when I learned you’d created a theme park in your native Sevier County I rolled my eyes. “Really, a theme park?” I thought. “As if rollercoasters will really help the people of rural Appalachia. Why not create something truly useful to give back to your community, like a library.”
Oh.
You have created a library, actually, and possibly in a bigger and more magical way than any brick structure filled with books could. And this is where my understanding of who you are really began to shift.
When I moved to Knoxville eight years ago I received a welcome letter from “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.” It informed me that Dolly’s vision was to foster a love of reading among preschool children by mailing a specially selected book each month directly to any child under the age of 5. You had expanded it from Sevier County to my county, and if I had a preschool age child, it said, all I needed to do was sign her up and she would begin receiving books each month.
My daughter was not quite two then, and I can still see how her face lit up each time we pulled a book addressed to her out the mailbox every month. Several of them became her early childhood favorites, and are stored away should she have children of her own some day.
As a writer and editor, I’m a book hound and made sure my daughter has been exposed to reading at every turn. But you know better than anyone that not all kids have that privilege. I can’t imagine what a magical gift receiving a book every month must be for kids whose parents can’t afford to buy them or who don’t have easy access to a library. I quickly came to see the genius of your Imagination Library literacy program, and how you were making a difference in so many ways I never realized.
Your father was illiterate, which fueled your literacy passion. Now the Dolly Parton Imagination Library just surpassed gifting one million books to participating children around the world each month. To celebrate, your Dollywood Foundation randomly selected one of those children to receive a $30,000 college scholarship. Two-year-old Evey, from Conway, Arkansas, has no idea yet how fortunate she is, but her parents surely do.
But what finally brings me to this overdue apology is how I’ve seen you respond to the devastating wildfires that swept through your hometown communities of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. At least 14 vibrant lives were taken tragically too soon, and thousands of buildings and homes were damaged or destroyed.
You made a public statement saying that you were heartbroken, while also expressing deep gratitude to the firefighters who protected Dollywood and evacuated everyone staying there to safety. Dollywood is the place I once dismissed, but now know is the largest employer in Sevier County and is the largest ticketed tourist attraction in Tennessee, hosting over 3 million guests a season. East Tennessee will count on that tourism to rebuild.
With the humble generosity and graciousness I’m learning is signature Dolly Parton, you’re not only planning a telethon to raise funds for the fire victims, but you’ve also created the My People Fund to provide, as you say, a “hand up to all those families who have lost everything in the fires.”
Those struggling families—and there are hundreds of them—will receive, thanks to you, $1,000 a month for 6 months. Countless stories detail how these families escaped with literally minutes to spare, and with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. And with each story, there’s a strong undercurrent of hope about how strangers helped one another and how this region is “mountain strong.” Your generosity both reflects and inspires this region’s spirit and resiliency.
Tonight, my daughter, who is now 9 and also loves to sing and act, has been using face paint to dress up as one of the DC comic heroines she and her friends admire. When she finished, she asked, “Hmmm, what other Superhero girl do I admire?”
I sat down next to her and said, “Let me tell you about Dolly.” In fact, I hope to take her to a Christmas show at Dollywood during this season of gratitude, and I’ll be making a donation to your My People Fund. I can’t imagine a more inspiring place to be, or a better way to support an amazing example of what it looks like to make the world a stronger place, starting with your own sweet community.
Dolly, I’m sorry I didn’t get you sooner—and I thank you for all you are, and all that you do.
Your biggest new fan,
Amy Rawe
_____
Read a Q&A with Amy about this post: An “Open Apology” Gone Viral
WBIR interview: Writer publishes heartfelt apology, thank you to Dolly Parton
Rawe-struck 
Wow, a tear jerked. Thanks for sharing, Amy.
Wonderful and we’ll deserved…not only is Dolly talented but she’s a sweet and very kind humanitarian.
This was beautiful. It takes a big person to admit when they are wrong and an even bigger person to admit it this vocally. Bravo for you.
That’s awesome!
I wish all the privileged people would be as humane and as generous! Dolly knows the joy of giving. Good human being! I wish her a long and happy life.
I love the fact that she has said she does not mind being being called a ‘dumb blonde’ because she knows she ain’t dumb and isn’t blond either!
I met Ms. Parton at the 2003 CMA’s while I was working backstage as a talent shadow for Norah Jones. It was just a quick hello in the hallway of the Grand Ole Opry but she took what little time she had to stop and acknowledge me. She may be a tiny woman in person but her humility and heart are so very big.
So beautifully written and well deserved Dolly Parton! Thank you for this positive message Amy Rawe. May you have a a wonderful Christmas and keep writing these kinds of things. ♥
A beautiful heartfelt tribute to an amazing, thoughtful, kind, loving, true southern lady. The love for your country and especially the state of Tn. shines bright. Reaching into the far corners to include all in so many ways. You are a true inspiration. So very thankful for all you have done and continue to do. You are truly an angel on earth. God bless you
Ms. Dolly is a legend in our industry. Not just for her music success, but as a role model for young women, the less fortunate, those who dream, and those who seek to do righteous acts of charity. Her voice is Angelique; her role in Life is Angelic.
Amy – I’m skipping over much of the negativity that is expressed in comments. Wanted to reach out and say that I appreciate the spirit of your post, in that you honestly show how we can make assumptions about people, when, in truth, they may end up being very different than our assumptions of their character.
The people in the Gatlinburg area (Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, etc) are devastated by the horrific fires that scorched hundreds of acres of the beautiful Smokey Mountain national parks area. My sister and her husband were one of the 2400+ families that lost their homes – completely destroyed, down to the foundation. Lives were lost. Businesses affected. Jobs lost. Families displaced.
Yes, I add my thanks to Dolly Parton, not only for creating an emergency fund to help victims of the fire, but also for building a business in that area to begin with; a business that employs hundreds and provides jobs and a way to make a living for the people living in the area. The people of Tennessee will recover and rebuild, but right now, in this hour of need, any bit of help can only be appreciated.
It shows something about your own character that you can speak honestly about how you recognize that jumping to unfounded conclusions about people, based only on physical characteristics or income brackets, can … well, it often does … lead to the uncomfortable realization that our judgmental thoughts are completely unfounded and mistaken.
As an average person and fellow citizen of the USA, I agree that we truly do need to work harder at being more accepting of one another. Reach out to lend a hand when we can, and be willing to admit when we’ve mistakenly judged another based on lack of accurate information about someone’s character. Good for you for being willing to say so out loud, and share it with others. Hope it inspires other folks to reconsider their own mistaken assumptions. Unity and acceptance is a healthier path than discord and divisive thinking. Hope your blog post helps open people’s eyes, and gets them to thinking about how THEY can be more accepting.
It definitely had that effect on ME, so thank you for the opportunity to open my mind and expand my ideas about how we should be more generous with one another, both in thoughts and action. Kudos to you for initiating the conversation!
Thank you, ntexas99, for your understanding and acceptance. Much love and support to your sister and her husband as they work to rebuild. If there’s anything I can do from Knoxville to support your family (or others they know who are also struggling from the fires), please feel free to email me at amyrawe@gmail.com. I know the donation centers are currently at full capacity, but I still wonder if there are less conventional ways I can help, such as specific gift cards, a home cooked meal or guest room in Knoxville, etc.
Dolly Parton is an all around awesome lady.
I’m glad you finally got Dolly. She has always been one of the sweetest, wittiest, and most genuine women of our time not to mention a brilliant business woman. Never underestimate “our” Dolly.
A good example of how someone who appears to be educated can also be so misguided when it comes to people she didn’t relate to. It’s a shame it took a tragedy such as the devestating fires to bring help her fully appreciate someone who’s heart is much bigger than herself. At least she did apologize.
Dolly Parton is a remarkable woman who truly lives by the Golden Rule. God bless you, Dolly.
Well Amy as a writer and editor as you said yourself to be, you should know better then to judge a book by it’s cover. I am so glad you opened the book and just read the first chapter of the wonderful lady, Miss Dolly Parton to be.
My cousin had changed so many lives all over the world when she gets to heaven she’ll have a line like no othe of people just wanting to thank her.Along with crowns I jewels for her works for the Lord.
Dolly hasn’t changed a bit just got older and wiset!
Love ya! Cuz always stay humble @
I had tears in my eyes when I read this. Dolly has always been one of my favorites. I didn’t realize all that she did do but I knew she had a good heart. I’m glad you’re able to see her and really get to know her.
Dolly walks the walk and talks the talk!
Thank you Amy….
.your open apology to Dolly was fantastic ! Lots of us have thought this but never spoke up. You have spoken for thousands I’m sure . You have also put it with such wonderful words! I’m sure many will agree….
I too am a FAN!!! I grew up in SE KY..I wish we had a DOLLY!!!
I’ve loved Dolly as long as I’ve know about her(we are the same age) and it’s been a long time. She is beautiful inside and out. She may be wealthy yet shows much humility and true faith. She is truly one talented lady and one of American’s shining gems. May God bless her always for her sweet caring heart.
I’m sure many of us have thought of Dolly in that mane no matter if we said it ourselves or heard it from someone else and those accusations were planted in our thoughts. It’s not about our body’s but the acts of our hearts and Dolly has a compassionate heart and is able to share a God given talent to help others from all walks of life. My own daughter who is now 15 and has autism received books until she turned five. Imagination Library is wonderful way to start a child’s own library of great stories. Yes. Thank you Dolly. It is beautiful gift.
Such a wonderful, pointed educated piece. I’ve loved Dolly for years, though I must admit I was a little taken aback by her when she was on the Porter Wagoner show and I was fresh into North Carolina from Florida where I’d never heard of Dolly Parton and never listened to what is now my favorite country music,.
Through the years she has entertained educated cared for and changed countkess lives. Thank you for this wonderful piece. God bless us everyone.
Glad to have another person on the Dolly Train!! She is a very strong and passionate woman who has worked hard for what she has and gives back to others. In my eyes Dolly is a true female role model.
Love you Dolly!!
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I loved this blog post and want to tell you when I changed my mind about Dolly Parton. I am a true northerner, so I really didn’t get her at all. However, my late husband showed me her album of songs that she had written and performed and told me she had written many songs I didn’t know she had. She is truly an American hero and she does everything from her heart. People like Dolly Parton are rare in the industry and it made me love her even more when I see how she is helping these people who are victims of the fire. Having gone through a fire myself I understand the struggle they are facing. I think it was difficult for you to have written this apology and I commend you on doing it. I did not know about her book giving program and now I can add that to my love for this amazing woman!!
I knew Dolly had a good heart. I was more impressed when she started the children’s book library. It proves the old saying”Don’t judge a Book(Person) by it’s cover.” I have always known every person has a good side if you look for it. I grew up poor in the South. It makes us stronger& love people more.i love to read. I love the two Christmas movies of her. Thank you,Dolly for giving back to your community.
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I’ve always loved Dolly, her smile and laugh alone can make anyone’s day, her voice is like an angel, God Bless you Dolly, I can only pray that more people will step up to help theses poor people that have lost everything this time of year.
Thank you, Amy, for this blog.
Most of my family grew up in those Smokie Mountains. I’ve been to Dolly’s amusement park more times than I could count growing up. I’ve looked up to Dolly for many years. She truly is a jewel in these parts.
I’m just thankful the rest of world can finally see her for more than just her looks.
Thank you for this. Your vulnerability just might be another piece in this beautiful tapestry. It’s greatly appreciated from all these mountain people.
Dolly has made great contributions to fighting illiteracy. This is key in keeping America great for all who persevere and succeed.
My daughter lost her home in the fire, Dolly Parton you are angel from God may he continue to bless you greatly all the days of your life.Jo Georgia
Beautiful! Loving! Humble! Honoring!
I’m thankful you were brave and kind to Dolly!
Amy, what a classy public letter. Thanks for posting it and educating me about a kind and decent person that I knew nothing about.
Matt
I always knew Dolly was a very kind and generous person. I am glad you finally discovered her inner beauty.
So relevant to this situation – remember to never judge a book by its cover.
Powerful blog, I admit, I welled up.
I have never liked country music but I have always lived Dolly Parton. I have the utmost respect for her. I can honestly say is is the only celebrity I would ever like to meet. The world is a better place with her in it.
Thank you for sharing this Amy.
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good on you…we need more honesty and communication with those whom we dislike or disagree with …some of my best friends are Democrats…..but all kidding aside…it is steps like these that make us stronger…God bless you and your family …
Dolly built Dollywood to help give her family members a job. I have always known that Dolly is The Real Deal! Thanks for all you do Dolly ♡
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Wow! Well put! Dolly has always been an inspiration to me. So glad that you “get” her now! You are now an inspiration for your writing and understanding.
I’m glad u changed your mind about Ms.Dolly. She is an honest,open loving Lady. At least u saw the error of your ways.
Iv Always loved Dolly! She’s a true southern Belle that has manners and someone you could be friends with easily…She’s also one of the most misunderstood and underestimated people, because of her makeup, hair and body…people looked at her as something she isn’t…And by the way, I like the way she looks…Thanks for sharing your view on this great lady that does for others, even when noone is looking…
Reblogged this on Ashley Nicole Hunter and commented:
A reminder that there are good people out there who do extraordinary things with their resources, and that no matter how high you rise, giving back to your community will ultimately be your legacy.
If you ever want to watch an adorable and heart-string-pullin’ movie about mothers and daughters, check out “The Year that Dolly Parton was My Mother”.
I also owe Dolly an apology for the same reasons.
She is a Class Act !!!!!
I have always been a huge Dolly fan and many of my friends were not sure why. I was fortunate enough to see her show in Austin this week and I am now an even bigger fan! She is the ultimate musician with her skills on 10 instruments during the show as well as her endless list of songs she has penned. But, when she sat down on her ‘front porch’ I felt like she was telling me alone about her life and family. At 70 years of age she entertained a full house for two and a half hours with passion for music and her fans.
Say what you want, seeing Dolly Parton was on my bucket list and I would see her again tomorrow if I could.