Dolly Parton Gives Poignant Response to North Carolina ‘Bathroom Bill’
Dolly Parton continues to demonstrate her long-standing support of the LGBT community. In a brief, but powerful video, the global entertainment icon subtly voiced her opposition to North Carolina’s HB2 bill. The legislation, also known as the “bathroom bill,” forces transgender individuals to use restrooms associated with their gender assigned at birth.
“I think everybody should be treated with respect,” Parton says in the clip, posted by CNN Money. [Watch below.] “I don’t judge people. I try not to get too caught up in all the controversy of things. I hope that everybody gets a chance to be who and what they are.”
Parton, who maintained a serious tone while delivering that message, couldn’t resist adding a patented Dolly quip to finish her thought, saying, “I just know if I have to pee I’m gonna pee. I don’t care where it’s gonna be.”
On June 3rd, Parton kicked off her Pure & Simple Tour in Greensboro, North Carolina, in spite of her opposition to the bill. Other acts, including Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Maroon 5 and Alabama Shakes, cancelled shows they had scheduled in the state. The Greensboro performance was Parton’s first there in 25 years.
The Pure & Simple Tour continues Friday, June 10th, with a stop in Northfield, Ohio, followed by shows in Cincinnati and Lewiston, New York, this weekend. In all, Parton will visit 60 cities on the trek, which will wrap up in November.