Was Dolly Parton a feminist? She wouldn’t say it, but fans heard it — in her life and her lyrics
Fans and critics point to her songs and life choices as evidence of feminist themes, even as Parton avoided the label.
- Country superstar Dolly Parton died this week at 80, prompting reconsideration of her legacy as supporters highlight her independent life choices and progressive lyrics despite her refusal to embrace the feminist label.
- Gloria Steinem, the feminist pioneer, wrote in 1987 that Parton used her business sense to help women and poor people. "Dolly Parton certainly has done both," Steinem wrote of finding unique power.
- Parton's lyrics addressed equal pay, reproductive justice, and double standards. At the Newport Folk Festival in 2019, she explained "Just Because I'm a Woman" targeted societal double standards about female sexuality.
- Loyola Marymount University professor Evelyn McDonnell observed that Parton's appearance served as a "magic cloak," allowing her to model an outspoken, progressive voice while addressing feminist themes.
- Author Lynn Melnick, who wrote about how Parton's songs aided her recovery from trauma, observed the singer showed feminism through her actions and words. Fans continue finding strength in her legacy.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Was Dolly Parton a feminist? She wouldn't say it, but fans heard
Smiling on the January 1987 cover of Ms., the magazine co-founded by feminism pioneer Gloria Steinem, are its 12 Women of the Year. They include a U.S. senator, a renowned novelist, a former nun who helped Central
Associated Press News
Was Dolly Parton a feminist? She wouldn’t say it, but fans heard it — in her life and her lyrics
Dolly Parton never embraced the feminist label, but her actions and lyrics spoke volumes. Fans like author Lynn Melnick, who wrote a book about Parton's impact on her own life, say the legendary singer exemplified feminist ideals in the way she lived her life and set her own terms.
Winnipeg Free Press
Was Dolly Parton a feminist? She wouldn’t say it, but fans heard it - in her life and her lyrics
Smiling on the January 1987 cover of Ms., the magazine co-founded by feminism pioneer Gloria Steinem, are its 12 Women of the Year. They include a U.S. senator, a renowned novelist, a former nun who helped Central American refugees. And, smiling brightest of all, Dolly Parton.
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