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 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 
We drove the 100 miles to Dollywood yesterday to see the Christmas shows like we do every year. Everyone was in good spirits, no noticeable damage near the park and the place was, as usual, crowded. I love this area, we moved from the northeast six years ago and never looked back.
I am always amazed at how quick people are to judge a book by its cover. Dolly is one of the most humble people I’ve ever seen. She’s earned a lot and has been given a lot but it was from her own hard work. So many athletes, singers and actors hoard what they have earned and never give back to anyone. They’re in the mind set of “mine, mine, mine”. Dolly has been open and honest with who she is and I admire that because she’s REAL. She has been, and is, the number one person I admire outside of my family.
she is one sweet giving lady an she has never forgot whee she came from .
Good for you.
And good for her too!
You don’t mention what a fabulous songwriter she is. Presumably income from that side of her ‘business’ fuels a lot of her philanthropy. Not just the C & W songs she usually sings, but stuff you really wouldn’t guess was by DP if you didn’t know.
Her song “I will always love you,” hit the top of the charts 3 seperate times before Whitney Houston ever sang it! But of course, Dolly was thrilled with the sheer beauty of Whitney’s magnificent voice singing her song.
Right!!!
I remember Dolly when she walked to Knoxville to be on the Cas Walked Show.
Dolly is a loving, caring person. She is amazing. All her money has not corputed her. She gives back.
I have ALWAYS been a fan of this fabulous human being. I remember watching her back in the days when the movie Working 9 to 5 came out .I could see through her ; funny, intelligent, and generous.People that know her well rave about her love of family and people in general. I am glad Amy wrote this beautiful article about her. She deserves it.
Dolly is a wonderful person and an asset to her family and this country
God bless this sweet lady –jesus help her in all she does from her great heart!!!
Wish there were more silly patrons in this old world my daughter now 40 idolized dolly when she was younger my parents even took her to dollywood what an idol to have an look up to thank you for who yo are dolly you parents are so very proud of you!!!
Thank you from people of La
This review reflects why, in TN, folks would fight each other for the privilege of taking the first swing at someone badmouthing Dolly Parton. And why there would be a long line waiting to finish what the winner started!
Dolly is a National Treasure and a Force of Nature!
Was she really saying she was racist against Dolly because she was from the south and talked funny? See how crazy this racism crap has gotten.
I appreciate your letter to Dolly but maybe we have a bigger lesson from this sweet woman spirit. Dollys spirit
I really don’t think she was racist, she just didn’t understand the south. If you don’t understand what she means by that then you need to either travel to the south or out of it. You will then understand that yes things really are different in the south. NOT WRONG, NOT BAD, but yes different. She now understands that differences can be wonderful and celebrated.
Ummmmm….that’s not racism. Classism, maybe, but not racism. “The South” isn’t a race.
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I’ve always loved Dolly. Her sincere and humble he heart always shines. Dolly is Beautiful inside and out!!!
I have ALWAYS admired Dolly. Her kind heart and humble ways were always there. If on a talk show, concert, or movie you could always see the real and sincere soul shine through. She has never forgotten her humble beginnings and is proud of it.
Amy, I understand. I used to see Dolly that way, too. Now I see her as an humble, philanthropic genius who lives to nurture the gifts and dreams in every heart she possibly can. When she was a coach on American Idol, I got a good look into her mind and heart.
She is a child at heart, which is something I’ve learned is the essence of creativity and joy. I’m glad I realized her true nature so I can appreciate all that she is.
Dear Dolly! You have always been tops in my book! Your talents are truly amazing! And your courage never falters, you are truly a gift from on high…such a blessing to enjoy.Love you Dolly Parton, please never stop! ❤️
I’ve been a Dolly devotee for 50 years. Glad you discovered she’s more than the package.
Well, I’m just in tears now. So many things about this resonate with me. My family moved from Chicago to Tennessee when I was a young teen. So I didn’t understand a lot of Southern things at first. I always liked Dolly, but thought a Dolly-themed amusement park sounded kind of silly when I first heard about it. Many years later, I get it. (And I still love roller coasters too.) Now I live near our nation’s capital, but I stopped off in Sevier County this past summer en route to my high school reunion. It’s a beautiful area. I was so very sad about the fires. After them, Dolly’s response is nothing short of awesome and shows her true fiber. She has permanently wedged herself into my heart.
Just another example of how much of the rest of the country views southerners. It is thought because we have a hick twang when we speak we are less than smart. Dolly is a wonderful example of a smart, caring business woman. But the south is full of wonderful, giving, smart people. Thank you Dolly and thank you to all the others that try to help those in need, create jobs, and make the south such a great please to live.
My mom loved Dolly, i was stationed in TN and went to Dolly wood. The first park for my young son!
Kodus to her and giving back.
I listened to 9 to 5 ,etc but right before my mom died at 51 yes old, she got to see Dolly and Kenny perform, Islands in the stream in concert. At Manchester, NH and it was such a highlight, she talked about it for weeks. Until she passed.
Passing a year later, and I being 14, it gave me comfort to hear that song and learn more about Dolly!
Grateful women, entertainer and gives back. What a package! She looks wonderful, she exudes Happiness!
Thanks for the memories of my wonderful Mother-Elizabeth.
Kenny and Dolly!!!!
Awesome
I am a true southern belle myself, I am from North Florida, I was raised on the same values as Dolly, I never seen the need for her to change her looks because to me she was always beautiful. But outside appearances does not changes the heart deep inside and she is all heart. I visit Tennessee and stay in a cabin and ride my side by side through the mountains and backtrails. The people there we have met were like next door nieghbors. That is Dolly! She is genuine and I love her. People are quick to judge, but I give credit to this lady for sending her an open apology, not many will. God bless her for that, may it open up others hearts and eyes. Tennessee is a Beautuful place, lots of love and heart and I pray that they rebuild and grow stronger than ever before, planning my next trip to visit soon. God bless you and continued prayers for Dolly and her beloved state.
Godspeed
C.J. Wilkinson
dolly has always been my favorite!!! i was teased at one time for being a dolly lookalike, but i could never sing like her!!
I grew up listening to dolly even before the Porter Wagner show .she is adorable inside and out .How can anyone not love her. I was raised poor and could not aford to go to any of her concerts . But with hard work I have been able to go to her shows in Branson several times .Dolly , I will always love you .
Dolly has always been a big part of my life and up bringing, my mom was a single mother of six and she has always been one of Dolly’s biggest fans, so growing up my mother would always sing “I will always love u” to get us to sleep and still to this day that is one of my best childhood memories, Because of her, all of us children are also big fans,And we are very grateful for such a wonderful singer, song writer, and amazing soul…. Thank you Dolly Parton for being you!!!!
I’m only 47 but I have always liked her. There was something about her I couldn’t put my finger on till later in life.she comes from very humble beginnings and has never forgotten that, I believe God has truly blessed her in every way because she has never forgotten where she came from and she is a very humble person even to this day. She realizes that the money she has was blessed to her by god so she knows she has to be like Christ in her life. Thank you Dolly for being and setting such a great example of who you ought to be in Christ. His blessings will forever continue in your life because of how you live and who you represent in life, I pray you continue to live like Christ and to show his example to the world, continue to let gods light shine so the rest of the world can see who Christ really is. Many blessings to you and your family this year and the years to come. What a blessing you are. Continue to let that light shine. God bless you always.
Reading this comments and the letter bring tears to my eyes. She is the greatest entertainer in my eyes.
Dolly,
Tennessee loves you.
I love Dolly I have met her in person years ago at Cannan NH fair talk to her while she was getting ready to sing. She is so beautiful I am the same age but do not look that good. She is amazing and very loving Her song He lives touches my heart every time I hear it. I live in SC where the fire were. Her helping the ones in TN. Is awesome. We lost a lot here also very sad.
People need to think before they build fires or through butts out of the car. We have been in a drought for a month or so but some people only think they are the only people my love to DP. She is the best.
Bonnie from SC
We have always loved Dolly! We saw her perform at Handley High School in the 70s, and we have always admired her talent, wit, and generosity.
Love you Dolly ❤
I have always admired Dolly, her amazing voice and her talent as an actor. She has the ability to lift a person’s spirit when you are down. After reading your story I was even more amazed and impressed with her. She is a wonderful a Christian and an angel. God Bless.
We were at pigeon forge Gatlinburg TN and stayed on the mountain in Sept of 2016. It was beautiful also went to Dolly Parton theme park Best experience I have ever had. It’s a tragedy what happened. Dolly is a legend in my book and always will be. So sorry for your loss in Tennessee Dolly Parton.. your amazing in my eyes.
Dear Dolly you and your music have been a great part of my life I’ve seen evey movie xmas specials and have a collection of your music. I grew up in Quebec Canada and now live in Ontario Canada. We feel your heart and soul with your beautiful music thankyou for touching our lives.
If all stars could be as generous As Mrs. Dolly. Can you imagine what this world would be like?
Dolly, I loved you the first time I saw you in 1968, on the Porter Wagner show, have been a fan since,. & love country since, then, , you always made my happy to watch & hear you sing ❤
Dolly , Loved you since 1968, when I saw you on the Porter Wagner Show, have loved county since, , love watching you & hear you sing, great work Dolly, you make me proud to be country,keep singing
I have always loved Dolly. Love her music, her generosity, and everything she stands for. I am not an avid country fan as I love rock and roll, but I own every album Dolly has made and will always love her music.
TODAY IN CHURCH THE MINISTER MADE REFERENCE OF THE NEED TO REMEMBER THOSE WHO LOST EVERY THING IN THE FIRES. I TOO WAS OF A UNIMPRESSED VIEW OF , OR BETTER YET ALWAYS THOUGHT YOU WERE ARROGANT,& SELF SERVING. GIVING NO THOUGHT OF POVERTY STRICKEN PERSONS IN THESE MOUNTAINS. BOY DID TRAGEDY PROVE YOUR HIDDEN IDENITY. I TOO OWE YOU A GREAT BIG THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME, & OTHERS NO MATTER HOW BIG, or SMALL WE ALL CAN STEP UP TO THE PLATE WHEN OUR BROTHER, or SISTER NEED HELP. ALSO I, \Mr OPINIONATED OWE YOU A HEART FELT APOLOGY. AND HOPE I HAVE LEARNED THE LESSON, NOT TO JUDGE A BOOK BY IT,S COVER I KNOW THAT EVEN THOUGH I HAVE VERY LITTLE, I HAVE MUCH MORE THAN THEY, AND MY SMALL CONTRIBUTION MADE ME FEEL LIKE A PART OF INSTEAD OF APART FROM PEOPLE LIKE YOU.*
Nicely written! The honesty, the gradual epiphany. Personally, I’ve loved Dolly all my life. I’m from Chattanooga, she’s royalty here… way more than just an entertainer. She’s all heart with a dab of sass. What more could you ask for?
Well I guess I’m glad the author finally woke up and told us why her opinion changed of Dolly Parton. I couldn’t have lived without knowing that her mind had changed about a fellow southerner. Thank God Dolly had this library because I guess it’s just not good enough to be a good person, a good country singer, and have your own theme park (which I’m sure brings happiness to a lot of people).
Nice article to read about Hiw wonderful Dolly is, something a lot of us have always known. This article also points out how close minded and bigoted certain people can be. To have prejudged her before and only changed your opinion after you found out about the library thing….. shame on you Amy Rawe.
Don, think about what you just said about another person and apply everyone of those words to yourself for a minute or two. Why such hateful words? Amy is a caring person too. She changed her opinion, maybe you could too.
D
OLY IS ONE OF THE HEROS OF
I once worked at a hospital in Rotherham (GB) and her photo was on was wall. It was later I discovered she had helped fund the special care baby unit. What an Angel she is.
A good lesson on never judge a book by its cover. Dolly is and always has been a wonderful giving person. It was very nice of you to write a letter of apology. I’m sure Dolly loved it. She also would never hold a grudge against anyone.
To the author of this article, you should also show you daughter the 2 movies that Dolly recently had on network TV. “Coat of many colors” and a holiday version of it.
Dolly is so funny if you ever see any interviews of her on talk shows. And I believe she has provided everyone in her family jobs at Dollywood. An American icon. I feel sorry that you are just realizing what a treasure she is.
I LOVE all the beautiful sentiments people say about Dolly never judge a book by its cover~~~~a person is never what they look like on the outside..when you get to know them you realize just how wonderful they really are but in Dolly;s case she is beautiful SHE has every thing going for her I love everything about her. Iwish I could meet her,, maybe some day,,stay as sweet as you are Dolly Hugsss
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For my 93rd B.D. My kids treated me to Dolly Parton’s Concert in Paso Robles.
Every one cheering. She is amazing. On stage for 2 hours without a break. What Vitality. How does she do it at 70? It was a “night to remember ” for me. thank you Dolly Parton for the wonderful evening.
From the west coast of America as a long time fan of Dolly it seemed to me her sweetness always came through..I wish her good health and a long life to share her talent with America
Dolly is a true inspiration to us all. She’s very down to earth
And very kind. A true Tennessee mountain girl with a
Big heart. Who really cares for people and her home town. Alway
Been a big fan and will always be. God Bless you Dolly.
Just saw her in concert she has a BEAUTIFUL SOUL