Kurt M. Campbell Deputy Secretary of State | Official Website
The U.S. Department of State and the Recording Academy® have named Dolly Parton as the recipient of the 2024 PEACE Through Music Award. This accolade is given to individuals in the American music industry who contribute significantly to cross-cultural exchanges and promote peace globally.
Parton, a renowned musician and philanthropist, will be honored at an event at the GRAMMY Museum® in Los Angeles. The ceremony also marks the conclusion of the American Music Mentorship Program held from October 15-25.
"Dolly Parton embodies all that the PEACE Through Music Award represents: understanding, peace, inclusion, and unity," said representatives of both organizations. Her work through initiatives like Imagination Library has provided educational opportunities for children worldwide. Parton's involvement in public health efforts, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic, has also been highlighted as part of her global impact.
The selection process for this award involves nominations from U.S. embassies worldwide, with recommendations made by a committee comprising members from both the State Department and Recording Academy®. The final decision is made by the Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs.
This award forms part of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative announced by Secretary Blinken in 2023. It aims to use music as a tool for diplomacy to foster peace and support U.S. foreign policy objectives related to education, economic opportunity, equity, and inclusion.
Quincy Jones was recognized as the inaugural recipient of this award in 2023.
For more information on these efforts, visit state.gov/music-diplomacy or contact eca-press@state.gov.
Dolly Parton continues to achieve significant milestones in her career. Recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, her album "Rockstar" set records with its debut sales week. She holds numerous accolades including 11 Grammy Awards among many others across various prestigious platforms.
Her philanthropic work includes donating over 255 million books through her Imagination Library initiative which encourages children's literacy globally. Her literary contributions include best-selling books such as "Run Rose Run," co-authored with James Patterson.
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