Governor Bill Lee announced that the Nashville International Airport will be renamed after Dolly Parton following her death. In a press release, Lee said the airport should bear the name of the state’s daughter and reflect her music, generosity, faith and kindness. The proposal will be considered by the Nashville Airport Authority in September.

Lee has signed legislation that restricts drag performances and gender‑affirming care for minors. In 2023 he enacted the Adult Entertainment Act, which bans “adult‑oriented” performances that lack literary, artistic, political or scientific value for a reasonable 17‑year‑old. The law has been criticized for its vague language and for creating fear among drag performers and trans people.

Parton, who died in 2024, was known for her support of LGBTQ individuals and for employing drag performers. She once said she would have been a drag queen if she had been born a man. Her advocacy contrasted with Lee’s record, which includes defending faith‑based adoption agencies that refuse same‑sex couples, renaming Pride month “Nuclear Family Pride Month,” and prohibiting colleges and homeless shelters from recognizing gender identity. He also signed a law banning gender‑affirming medical care for minors and requiring doctors to report trans patient information to the state.

Legal challenges to similar drag bans have succeeded elsewhere. In Texas, a federal judge struck down the state’s drag ban in 2023, citing First Amendment protections and noting that drag performances, like Elvis impersonations, are constitutionally protected. The judge referenced Parton in his opinion.

Tennessee Equality Project leader Brian Sullivan said Parton “reminded us of who had our back.” Trans activist Jordan Allen noted that the law could be used to target trans people in everyday jobs.

Lee’s office did not respond to requests for comment. While the airport renaming may honor Parton’s legacy, activists argue that repealing the drag ban would more directly reflect her support for LGBTQ people.