Dolly Parton was known for both her faith and acceptance. The beloved country singer's support for the LGBTQ+ community resonated with many, especially queer Christians. Parton's music and public persona consistently promoted acceptance, making her a beacon for those struggling with their identity. Her theme park, Dollywood, reflects her Christian values and commitment to inclusivity. Parton's legacy of love and acceptance continues to inspire across political and denominational lines. For many Christian members of the LGBTQ+ community who struggled to reconcile their sexuality and gender identity with the beliefs they were taught, Parton’s public support was a beacon.

A polygamous sect leader already serving a 50-year federal sentence for orchestrating sex involving children has been given another 24 years in prison on Arizona state convictions for hauling girls in an unventilated trailer. Samuel Bateman was sentenced Tuesday. Bateman was convicted of child abuse stemming from a 2022 traffic stop in Flagstaff that led to the discovery of three girls, ages 11 to 14, in the trailer. He is serving 50 years for coercing girls as young as 9 to submit to sex acts with him and other adults and scheming to kidnap girls from protective custody — the story of which is the focus of the Netflix series, “Trust Me: The False Prophet.”