Naming an Icon: Dolly Parton’s Legacy Takes Flight

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced a proposal to rename Nashville International Airport after Dolly Parton. The joint statement from Lee and airport authorities frames Parton as a beloved figure, whose “extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state.” However, this narrative overlooks the complexities of Parton’s public image.

Parton’s philanthropic work and dedication to education are undeniable. Her Imagination Library has provided millions of books to children worldwide, while her Dollywood Foundation supports economic development in Tennessee. Yet, her legacy is also intertwined with controversy – from her support for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation to her complicated relationship with the working class.

The fact that this proposal gained momentum after Parton’s death suggests a desire to cement her status as a cultural icon rather than critically examining her legacy. This phenomenon is not unique to Dolly Parton; numerous cities have renamed buildings, streets, or airports after notable individuals without considering the nuances of their public image.

The original proposal was sparked by a petition last year, which drew attention after Parton’s passing. The outpouring of affection for Dolly Parton has been overwhelming, but it also underscores the power dynamics at play when naming institutions after individuals.

The current naming policy and Lee’s proposal will be discussed at the Metro Nashville Airport Authority’s meeting on September 17. It is essential to engage in a more nuanced conversation about what we mean by “honoring” an icon like Dolly Parton. We should consider how these tributes reflect our values as a society and whether they prioritize the complexities of a person’s legacy over their most marketable characteristics.

The trend of naming institutions after notable individuals has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, with cities relying on this strategy to boost tourism and attract attention. However, this approach often overlooks the intricacies of public image and the potential consequences of these tributes. Renaming a major airport like Nashville International Airport would be a high-profile statement about Parton’s importance but also risks reducing her legacy to a simplistic narrative.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s social media post announcing his support for the name change frames it as “our turn to share a love letter to Dolly” through the airport renaming. This language is telling, shifting the focus from Parton’s contributions to the city’s desire to reciprocate her affection. While this might seem like a heartfelt gesture, it also raises questions about the motivations behind such tributes.

The Nashville International Airport currently uses the airport code BNA, which stands for Berry Field Nashville Airport. The facility takes its name from Col. Harry Smith Berry, a World War I and II veteran who helped establish the airfield. Renaming the airport would erase this piece of history – an ironic consequence given the reverence with which we often approach our cultural icons.

As the proposal to rename Nashville International Airport after Dolly Parton moves forward, it is essential to critically examine what values these tributes represent. Rather than simplistically honoring a public figure, we should strive for more nuanced and thoughtful approaches that acknowledge the complexities of their legacy. By doing so, we can ensure that our cultural tributes reflect our values as a society and honor the full complexity of an individual’s impact.