Statement: Los Angeles LGBT Center Honors Life and Legacy of LGBTQ+ Icon Dolly Parton

LOS ANGELES, August 25, 2026 — Following the passing of legendary singer-songwriter, actor, philanthropist, and lifelong LGBTQ+ ally Dolly Parton, Los Angeles LGBT Center CEO Joe Hollendoner issued the following statement:

“We are heartbroken by the passing of Dolly Parton—an artist whose extraordinary talent was matched only by her generosity, acceptance, and love. For generations of LGBTQ+ people, Dolly was more than an icon. She was a reminder that we deserve to be celebrated for exactly who we are.

A lifelong ally and advocate, Dolly embraced her LGBTQ+ fans, championed marriage equality, and spoke with compassion about the dignity of transgender people. She once described herself as all the colors of the rainbow—a fitting reflection of the joy, openness, and warmth that made so many in our community feel seen.

Through her music, humor, generosity, and unmistakable spirit, Dolly showed us the beauty of taking up space and living unapologetically. She made room for people to shine—and inspired us to do the same.

Today, we mourn alongside her loved ones and the millions whose lives she touched. Her voice, her heart, and her example will continue to remind us to lead with compassion, embrace one another, and let our truest selves shine. We will always love you, Dolly.”         

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About the Los Angeles LGBT Center

Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBTQ+ individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center’s nearly 800 employees provide services for more LGBTQ+ people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy. We are an unstoppable force in the fight against bigotry and the struggle to build a better world; a world in which LGBTQ+ people thrive as healthy, equal, and complete members of society. Learn more at lalgbtcenter.org.