National Women's History Museum

Washington, DC, June 8, 1998 — Karen Staser, founder and president of the National Museum of Women’s History (NWHM), appeared at the Congressional hearing of the Dollar Coin Advisory Committee on June 8, 1998. Ms. Staser testified in support of a new dollar coin featuring Susan B. Anthony and Harriet Tubman.At the hearing Ms. Staser, an expert on women’s history, said, “Susan B. Anthony and Harriet Tubman are examples of powerful women who dedicated their lives to ensuring freedom and rights for all of our citizens. Our nation is more inclusive and made stronger by these women’s contributions.” Ms. Staser added, “With both images of equal size, either side by side or face to face in profile, the new coin will reflect our nation’s diversity and move us towards a full recognition of women’s profound contribution to our country – past, present, and future.”

Susan B. Anthony’s lifelong fight for the women’s vote is well known. Harriet Tubman, an African American and former slave, led more than 300 slaves to freedom via the underground railroad. At great personal risk, she dedicated her life to fighting for abolition and women’s rights.

According to Ms. Staser, “NWHM supports the continuation of Anthony’s image on the dollar coin. We feel strongly that it would enrich our cultural heritage by also including Tubman, an African American female leader. In addition, this would reinforce the goals of President Clinton’s Initiative on Race.”

The National Museum of Women’s History celebrates and chronicles women’s contributions to civilization, from ancient times to present day. With traditional historic texts and public spaces addressing only a fraction of women’s accomplishments, NWHM collects and preserves documents and memorabilia for the purpose of sharing the achievements of women through the Museum’s Web site, traveling exhibits and soon-to-be announced permanent site in Washington, DC.