Portland designates September 25 as Dolly Parton Day to honor the late star

During a Wednesday city council meeting, Portland declared September 25 Dolly Parton Day, referencing the singer’s "9 to 5" song and film. Drag artist Nicole Onoscopi performed Parton’s biggest hits, prompting audience sing-along. Council members and Laurie McNichols of the Imagination Library praised local partners who help fund free books for children, noting that more than 80,000 Oregon kids—about 30% of those under five—are enrolled.

State funding from the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care covers half the cost per book. Mary Dailey encouraged residents and businesses to donate on the day, linking contributions to the national "Give Like Dolly" campaign run by the Dollywood Foundation. The proclamation, read by Council President Jamie Dunphy and Mayor Keith Wilson, urges Portlanders to celebrate the iconic artist while supporting literacy initiatives.