Dolly Parton: The Ultimate Feminist Icon (Even if She Won’t Say It)

Let’s talk about Dolly Parton, y'all. The woman. The myth. The legend. Dolly is a name that just sparkles with rhinestones, big hair, and country charm. But here's the thing: while Dolly’s glittery, glamorous exterior is what draws people in, it’s her heart and sharp mind that have made her an icon—especially for women. Whether she’s singing about tough love or quietly giving millions to charities, she embodies feminism in ways that go way beyond a slogan on a T-shirt.

A Country Queen with Humble Beginnings

Dolly didn’t exactly grow up surrounded by glitz and glamour. Nope. She was raised in a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, part of a poor family with 12 siblings. She’s the classic rags-to-riches story, but unlike others who leave their humble beginnings behind, Dolly never forgot hers. It’s part of what makes her so real, you know? It’s that down-to-earth, honest charm that shines through everything she does.

By the time she was just a little girl, Dolly was singing her heart out on local radio stations, eventually making her way to Nashville at 18. And let’s be honest, Nashville is no easy crowd. Especially for a young woman in the 1960s trying to make her mark in the male-dominated world of country music. But she didn’t just survive it—she thrived.

Why Dolly is Actually a Feminist

Okay, so Dolly doesn’t go around waving a feminist banner. In fact, she’s said she doesn’t like to label herself, and I get it. But let’s be real—actions speak louder than words, and if there’s ever been a woman who’s carved her own path while lifting others along the way, it’s Dolly.

She’s been standing up for women’s rights her entire career without making it a political talking point. One of her most famous songs, "9 to 5," is basically an anthem for every working woman who's ever felt underpaid, overworked, and unappreciated. If that’s not feminism, then what is?

She created her own empire in an era when women in country music were mostly expected to sing pretty and smile for the cameras. She fought for ownership over her songs (hello, “I Will Always Love You,” which, fun fact, made her millions when Whitney Houston covered it). She could’ve just taken the cash and bowed out of the spotlight, but no—Dolly is a businesswoman, y’all. She’s the CEO of Dolly Parton Enterprises, owns a theme park (Dollywood, anyone?), and has written over 3,000 songs.

And that laugh of hers? It might sound like she’s just being “cute,” but don’t be fooled. Dolly is sharp. She’s in on every joke and knows exactly what she’s doing. She said it best: "I'm not offended by all the dumb blonde jokes because I know I'm not dumb... and I also know that I'm not blonde."

The Philanthropist We All Need

Now let’s get into Dolly’s giving side because, honestly, this woman has done more for communities and people than we can even count. First up: her Imagination Library. She started it in 1995 in her hometown to get free books into the hands of kids. Today? It’s gone global and has given away over 200 million books. Can you imagine how many children’s lives she’s impacted? It’s not flashy, but it’s so important.

And who could forget when she casually donated $1 million to help fund Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine? While other celebrities were just tweeting their thoughts and prayers, Dolly put her money where her mouth is. Oh, and she didn’t stop there. Her Dollywood Foundation has helped support scholarships, disaster relief efforts, and more.

Dolly’s heart is huge, and it’s authentic—she gives because she cares, not for the recognition. And that’s what makes her different from a lot of big-name celebrities who slap their names on charities for PR. Dolly's been doing the work for decades.

A Feminist Who Does It Her Way

Here’s what I love most about Dolly: she’s proof that feminism isn’t one-size-fits-all. She’s unapologetically feminine and has embraced the parts of herself that the world often tries to dismiss as “frivolous”—like her love for makeup, her big hair, her sparkly outfits. But instead of letting those things define her in a limiting way, she’s taken control of her narrative.

Dolly’s shown that you can be feminine and powerful, soft and strong, sweet and savvy all at the same time. You don’t have to fit a mold to be a feminist. She’s done more for women by being herself than many who wave the feminist flag loudly but don’t walk the talk.

Dolly’s Legacy for Us

Dolly Parton’s life is a lesson for all of us women: Dream big, work hard, stay kind, and never forget where you came from. And let’s not forget, she’s funny as hell. She once said, “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap,” which is just pure Dolly magic—humble, self-aware, and confident all rolled into one.

So, if you ever need a reminder that it’s okay to own your femininity, follow your dreams, and not apologize for it, just turn up some Dolly. She’s the original boss babe, y’all, and a feminist icon—whether she claims the title or not.

What are your thoughts on Dolly Parton? Do you see her as a feminist, too? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to throw on some "Jolene" while you’re at it.

Thankful for your presence, Neja