Celia Cruz Becomes First Afro-Latina to Appear on U.S. Quarter

Credit: U.S. Mint

By Josiah Carrasco

August 13, 2024

In a historic move that celebrates diversity and honors an iconic figure in music, Celia Cruz has become the first Afro-Latina to be featured on a United States quarter. The U.S. Mint began distributing the quarter this month as part of its American Women Quarters Program, which aims to recognize women who have made significant contributions to the nation's history and culture.

Cruz, known as the "Queen of Salsa," was selected for her trailblazing role in bringing Afro-Cuban music to the global stage. Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1925, Cruz's career spanned over six decades, during which she became one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century. Her powerful voice, vibrant stage presence, and energetic performances captivated audiences worldwide. Cruz recorded more than 70 albums, won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards and a National Medal of Arts, and left an indelible mark on Latin music.

The decision to feature Cruz on the quarter is a significant step in acknowledging the contributions of Afro-Latinas and the broader Latino community in the United States. It also reflects a growing recognition of the importance of celebrating multiculturalism and the diverse histories that make up the fabric of the nation.

The American Women Quarters Program, launched in 2022, is a four-year initiative by the U.S. Mint to issue quarters featuring prominent American women from diverse backgrounds and fields. Each year, five new quarters are released, each with a unique design honoring a different woman. Cruz's quarter features a detailed portrait of her with a microphone, symbolizing her musical legacy, and the inscription "Queen of Salsa" alongside her name.

In a statement, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen highlighted Cruz's enduring influence on American culture. "Celia Cruz not only introduced millions to the vibrant rhythms of salsa music but also broke barriers as an Afro-Latina in an industry that was, and in many ways still is, dominated by men. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and music lovers around the world," Yellen said.

The release of the Cruz quarter has been met with widespread acclaim from the Latino community and beyond. Many see it as a long-overdue recognition of the contributions of Afro-Latinas to American society. "This is more than just a coin; it's a symbol of progress and a celebration of our rich cultural heritage," said Maria Teresa Kumar, president of Voto Latino, an advocacy group focused on empowering the Latino community.

Cruz's legacy is not only preserved through her music but also through various honors and recognitions she received during her lifetime and posthumously. The Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Music in New York City, for example, continues to inspire young musicians, many of whom are from Latino and Afro-Latino backgrounds.

As the Cruz quarter enters circulation, it will serve as a reminder of her lasting impact on American culture and the continuing efforts to celebrate and honor the contributions of women from all walks of life.

The American Women Quarters Program is a part of the U.S. Mint's broader initiative to feature influential figures from diverse backgrounds on U.S. currency. The program was inspired by the success of previous coin programs, such as the State Quarters Program and the America the Beautiful Quarters, both of which generated significant interest and participation from the public.

The selection process for the women featured on the quarters involves consultations with various cultural and historical organizations, as well as input from the general public. The aim is to highlight women who have made notable contributions to the fields of politics, science, arts, civil rights, and more.

Other women honored in the program include poet Maya Angelou, astronaut Sally Ride, and Cherokee Nation leader Wilma Mankiller. Each of these women represents a different aspect of American history and the ongoing struggle for equality and recognition.

The inclusion of Celia Cruz in this program underscores the growing recognition of the Latino community's impact on American culture and the importance of celebrating the diversity that defines the United States.

As Cruz herself once said, "My English is not very good looking, but my music speaks for itself." Now, her legacy speaks from the face of a quarter, reminding everyone who holds it of the powerful voice and spirit of the Queen of Salsa.