Even as Americans from all walks of life mourn the passing of country music legend Dolly Parton last week, it is worth remembering that she was a proud, lifelong supporter of Second Amendment freedoms.
Parton, who died Tuesday at 80, was a gun owner who believed in the rights of law-abiding citizens to protect themselves and not just be helpless victims.
A youthful trip to New York City drove that point home, as the revered singer revealed in a 1978 Playboy interview.
Parton found herself targeted by strangers as oblivious friend looked on
Parton and a female friend were accosted late at night by a group of men. “These men wouldn’t take no for an answer, and one got physical–really pullin’ at me…just maul me, the whole works.”
Meanwhile, her friend was no help, inexplicably laughing throughout the encounter and oblivious to the real danger they faced. Parton understood and said she always carried a .38 revolver that she had a permit for back in Nashville. “I feel safer when I’ve got it. I just don’t like the idea of knowin’ I’m totally helpless.”
Helpless, Dolly Parton was not. After drawing her weapon, she told her attacker, “If you put your hands on me one more time, I swear to God that I will shoot you. And I would have.”
Beloved singer chose forgiveness over permission
It is worthwhile noting that Parton’s Nashville carry permit wasn’t worth a cent in the Big Apple, as the city’s gun control regime tightly restricted the right to keep and bear arms. That did not stop the young superstar from protecting herself and refusing to be a powerless victim.
This self-defense incident occurred well before the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen decision, which mothballed NYC’s mandate that citizens must show “good cause” to exercise their Second Amendment rights.
As many before and since Miss Parton and her friend encountered the realities of big city life, she chose forgiveness over permission. After all, if the strangers had not decided this Southern girl was an easy mark, the .38 would have remained in her purse, and none would have been the wiser.
There’s no better way to show your patriotism than with merch that speaks before you do.
Defend America is more than a name, it’s a stand for freedom, resilience, and the values this country was built on. Every tee, hat, and mug is a symbol of unapologetic pride. Wear it loud, wear it proud, and let the world know: freedom isn’t negotiable.
Click the link below to join the movement.