Dolly Parton could be about to replace statue of Ku Klux Klan leader in southern state and, honestly, it’s gay rights
Dolly Parton performs onstage during the 53rd annual CMA Awards. (John Shearer/Getty)
In today’s edition of ‘x said gay rights!’, a Ku Klux Klan statue in an American state may be replaced by singer and LGBT+ icon Dolly Parton.
Gay, and we cannot stress this enough, honestly, we really can’t, rights!
Since 1978, the Tennessee Capitol building has honoured the white supremacist hate group leader and former Confederate solider Nathan Forrest.
The statue has been a lighting rod for criticism for years, inciting locals and officials alike to search for a replacement for a figure so divisive and hateful.
Of course, the only appropriate contender is Parton, practically beloved by all and a Tennessee local herself.
‘What’s wrong with someone like Dolly Parton being put in that alcove?’, says lawmaker.
A Tennessee state legislator floated the idea of replacing the town bust of the Grand Wizard with a statue of the singer during an interview with The Tennesseean.
“If we want to preserve history, then let’s tell it the right way, right now, there are eight alcoves [in the Capitol],” said state representatives Jeremy Faison.
“Seven are filled with white men.”
Faison related originally support the statue, but after prompts from Democratic representative G A Hardaway, he changed his mind.
“How about getting a lady in there? My daughter is 16, and I would love for her to come into the Capitol and see a lady up there.
“What’s wrong with Anne Dallas Dudley getting in that alcove?
“What’s wrong with someone like Dolly Parton being put in that alcove?”
The state legislature could pass a resolution requesting State Capitol Commission and Tennessee Historical Commission vote on removing the bust, Faison said.
However, the lawmaker has yet to do so.
From dropping a single called ‘Just A Wee Bit Gay’ to giving her song ‘Jolene’ a drag makeover, Parton has consistently proved herself as a strong ally.
Parton herself has not yet commented on the plans.
