eNewMexican

U.S. Mint to honor N.M. woman

Poet and author Maya Angelou, America’s first woman in space, a New Mexico suffrage movement leader and a revered Cherokee Nation leader are among female trailblazers whose likenesses will appear on the U.S. quarter. The new American Women Quarters Program celebrates women’s accomplishments and contributions to the United States’ development and history, according to the U.S. Mint.

The mint will issue up to five new designs each year from 2022-25. Honorees will be from a variety of fields and from ethnically, racially and geographically diverse backgrounds.

Those chosen for the first year are:

◆ Angelou, celebrated poet and memoirist.

◆ Wilma Mankiller, the Cherokee Nation’s first female principal chief.

◆ Adelina Otero-Warren, a leader in New Mexico’s suffrage movement.

◆ Sally Ride, the first U.S. woman in space.

◆ Anna May Wong, the first Chinese American Hollywood film star.

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Mankiller’s husband, Charlie Soap, expressed gratitude for Mankiller’s inclusion in the program, saying her influence and leadership made her a fitting choice.

Mankiller became one of the United States’ most visible Native American leaders during her 10 years as chief of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, from 1985-95.

LOCAL & REGION

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2021-06-20T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-06-20T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://enewmexican.com/article/281848646561497

Santa Fe New Mexican