March 19, 2015
Today’s link comes from Meredith Bennett-Smith of Quartz, who highlights the movement to bring U.S. currency into modern times by recognizing an important American woman and placing her portrait on the $20 bill. There are more than a few candidates. In fact, of the initial pool of storied American women, there are presently fifteen who are being considered as front runners, and the best part is that anyone can cast a ballot for her or his favorite historical heroine at WomenOn20s.
“While there’s nothing wrong with honoring [a] cadre of deceased white leaders—representing a who’s who of presidents, generals and state officials—their distinctly masculine visages are a constant reminder of the way American history quietly but consistently overlooks the contributions of 50% of its population. A particularly unnecessary form of patriarchal backwardness, the treasury’s boys’ club reinforces the idea that capitalism and governance is (white) men’s work.
“But it doesn’t have to be this way.”
Read the Quartz article here and check out some of the awesome designs for a potential $20 bill remake. And don’t forget to vote!
