Historic Change: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Zitkála-Šá

The National Women's History Museum and the United States Mint, in partnership with Better Days and the Utah Historical Society, were delighted to host a special evening in celebration of Zitkála-Šá and the new quarter released in her honor.

This inspiring program included a keynote address by The Honorable Marilynn “Lynn” Malerba, Treasurer of the United States; remarks by Rozanna Benally-Sagg, Utah Division of Indian Affairs Kassie John (Diné), Miss Indian World, and NWHM's Frédérique Irwin; a performance of "Forsaken" from Zitkála-Šá's The Sun Dance Opera, performed by Sanae Fujii, opera soloist and student, Brigham Young University School of Music, accompanied on piano by Tim McKay; and a reading of Zitkala-Sa’s "American Indian Stories” by Matthew Bonnin, great-great grandson of Zitkála-Šá. The evening also included a panel discussion, moderated by Katherine Kitterman, Ph.D.—public historian, Utah Historical Society and executive director of Better Days—featuring panelists Dr. P. Jane Hafen, professor emerita, University of Nevada, Las Vegas; Jennifer Herrera, vice president of external affairs, NWHM; and Mark Bonnin, great-great grandson of Zitkála-Šá. Rebekah Clark, historical director, Better Days, served as the emcee for the evening.
Zitkála-Šá (“Red Bird”), also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, was a Native American musician, writer and activist who fought for women's suffrage and Indigenous voting rights in the early 20th century. Her writings and activism led to citizenship and voting rights for not only women, but all Indigenous people. The American Women Quarters™ Program is the first circulating coin program dedicated to honoring women whose achievements, triumphs and legacies reflect the strength, perseverance, and resiliency of our nation.