Women's History Month: Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa

Celia Cruz in Havana, Cuba.
Ascribed to Ibrahim Arce, Narcy Studios

Celia Cruz in Havana, Cuba.

Celia Cruz (1925-2003), the singer known as the "Queen of Salsa," will be the first Afro-Latina to be featured on United States quarters. The U.S. Mint is honoring Cruz as part of its American Women Quarters Program.

Started in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the initiative will release up to five new designs each year. Born in Havana, Cuba, her salsa music and dance style made her a favorite within drag communities.

Learn more about Celia Cruz via the Smithsonian Magazine.

This vignette was produced by the Chancellor's Commission on Women.

Contacts

Charlie Alison, executive editor
University Relations
479-575-6731, calison@uark.edu

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