Anna Pope (OSU)
Concurrent Resolution (OU)-202, creating a holiday celebrating Dolly Parton, sparked religious-based questions in the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature (O.I.L.) Senate Chamber.
The resolution, written by Sen. Tessla Brewer (OU) and Sen. Eduardo Miranda (OU), declares January 19 a state holiday to celebrate the infamous singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, actress and humanitarian. Noting Parton’s cultural contributions and humanitarian efforts, describing Parton as a queen and stating “she is the closest thing to Jesus in America.”
When introducing the resolution, Brewer said the reasons they created this bill is to highlight Parton’s part in funding Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine. The resolution’s co-author, Miranda, said Parton composed multiple songs in her career causing a significant cultural impact.
“It’s a shame this (celebration of Parton) hasn’t been brought up sooner,” Miranda said.
Then, senators inquired about Parton’s contributions, why they chose a person born outside Oklahoma for a state holiday, and if this day would help unite people considering its closeness to the United States presidential inauguration day.
Additionally, the senate passed Sen. Connor Boren’s (OU) amendment encouraging Oklahomans to dress up as Parton, arguing this amendment is the most proper way to celebrate Parton and could provide an economic boost to clothing stores.
Some questions did mainly focus on Parton, but others questioned the problematic implications Oklahomans can draw from resolution. Brewer said drawing a comparison between Jesus as a figure was not the intent, but can see where Parton’s humanitarian efforts are comparable to some of the actions of Jesus.
Sen. Evan Shaw (TU) said the separation between church and state is of utmost importance to all people regardless of their beliefs and this legislation could be offensive to some people.
When Shaw submitted an amendment to strike the section in the bill, legislators like Sen. Canyon McGee (OBU) asked if the legislation might not compare Parton to Jesus Christ but some other person named Jesus because it does not specifically state ‘Jesus Christ.’ Sen. Lucas Fenderson (OSU) also asked if it might be a comment on Parton’s hair proximity to the sky.
After the times for questions ended, the Senate did not pass Shaw’s amendment and passed the resolution 14-4.