By admin 
Flags are flying at half-staff at state buildings across California and will remain that way until sunset on Sept. 1.
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The flags have been lowered at all state buildings by order of Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Here’s why:
Why are flags at half-staff in California?
California’s governor ordered all flags on state buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor of singer-songwriter, actress and philanthropist Dolly Parton, who died Tuesday at the age of 80.
Parton was the best-selling country music singer of all time, known for writing the iconic tracks “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene” and “9 to 5.” With her big blonde wig, endlessly bedazzled costumes and cinched waist, the singer became an icon of American pop culture.
But she was always grounded in her Tennessee roots, bringing Appalachian folk music to the national stage.
In addition to her acting and musical contributions, Parton was a known philanthropist, establishing Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library which mails children free books from birth until they begin school. She also donated to various other causes, including a $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for Covid-19 research in 2020.
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“The only thing bigger than her hair was her heart,” Gov. Newsom said in an official statement Tuesday. “She challenged the double-standards women often face and supported communities of color. She was a proud and vocal ally to the LGBTQ community, including her work fighting the spread of HIV and AIDS through the Dollywood Foundation.”
In each state, the governor is responsible for issuing flag directives. There are predetermined dates for lowered flags each year, and the governor’s office announces any additional dates necessary.
When are flags lowered generally?
In the past, Newsom has called for lowered flags in recognition of federal holidays such as Memorial Day.
Before Parton’s death, the last time Newsom ordered flags at half-staff was July 17, 2026, in honor of eight U.S. military-personnel killed in a B-52 Stratofortress crash during a test flight at Edwards Force Base.
“The world will be less sparkly without Dolly,” Newsom said, “but the joy she brought and the stories she shared will shine for generations.”
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