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May 07, 2023

Question of the Day [AAPI Heritage Month]: Which actress became the first Asian American to be featured on U.S. currency?

Hint: She is remembered as an international film star, fashion icon, television trailblazer, and a champion for greater representation of Asian Americans in film. 

Answer: Anna May Wong

Image of U.S. quarter featuring Anna May Wong.

 Questions:

  • Why do you think it is important to honor Anna May Wong on U.S. currency? 
  • How might having her image showcased on a quarter continue her legacy?
  • If you were going to design a U.S. quarter, who would you honor and why?

Click here for the ready-to-go slides for this Question of the Day that you can use in your classroom.

 

Behind the numbers (US Mint):

"In 1960, Wong became the first Asian American woman to be awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2022 the U.S. government chose Wong as part of that year’s American Women Quarters Program, which features trailblazing women on quarter coin designs. In the statement regarding her selection, Wong was described as “a courageous advocate who championed for increased representation and more multi-dimensional roles for Asian American actors.” She was the first Asian American to have her likeness appear on U.S. currency."

 

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Here are more AAPI Heritage Month resources on the NGPF Website!

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Learn more about Anna May Wong and her life in Encyclopedia Britannica.

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About the Author

Mason Butts

After graduating from UCLA with a Master's in Education, Mason spent 5 years as a science educator in a South Los Angeles public high school. He is committed to supporting the holistic growth of all students and empowering them to live a life of relational, academic, and financial success. Now settled in the Bay Area, Mason enjoys facilitating professional developments and partnering with educators as they prepare students for a bright financial future. When Mason is not building curriculum or planning a training, he can be found cycling, trying new foods, and exploring the outdoors.

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