There is a movement quietly gaining momentum to put a woman’s image on the U.S. $20 bill, replacing Andrew Jackson.
It might at first seem an arbitrary crusade. After all, Jackson has been on the bill since 1928. Why remove him and why add a woman?
Well, the folks behind the have good answers to those questions and more. They question the propriety of honoring Jackson, pointing to his support in getting Congress to pass the Indian Removal Act of 1830. That legislation pushed Native American tribes to Western territories and led to the shameful Trail of Tears, in which Indians suffered greatly during their forced relocation. Also, Jackson was of paper currency, preferring gold and silver.
But why a woman and why now?
There are no women depicted on paper currency, and with the 100th anniversary of women getting the right to vote coming in 2020, the timing is appropriate.
We note that Susan B. Anthony is on a dollar coin minted for several years. It was followed by a dollar coin depicting female Shoshone Indian guide Sacagawea.
But when is the last time you had your hands on either of those?
The Women on 20s group offers 15 female candidates to replace Jackson. Legendary and admirable women are on the list, including civil rights icon Rosa Parks and environmental activist Rachel Carson.
However, we find ourselves partial to Anthony, whose work in social justice and women’s suffrage stands out to this day.
Regardless, it’s a worthwhile conversation that should result in broader recognition for the women who have helped make this nation great.
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