Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray--one of the most important civil rights advocates of the 20th century. She was also a lawyer, scholar, theorist, author, and priest whose work influenced some of the most important social justice legislation of the 20th century.

Hon. Patsy Takemoto Mink, a distinguished legislator who championed Title IX which prohibited sex discrimination in educational programs and to organizations that receive Federal financial assistance. This legislation opened opportunities for women in education and sports. Mink was also the first woman of color to serve in the U.S. Congress and the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress from the state of Hawaii.

Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a surgeon and women’s rights advocate who relentlessly pursued her desire to serve as a surgeon during the Civil War, despite continual denials because she was a woman. Her innovative style, spirit, and tenacity persevered making her the first woman U.S. Army surgeon with the 52nd Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry as a “Contract Acting Assistant Surgeon.” To date, she is the only woman to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

Celia Cruz, one of the few women to succeed in the male-dominated world of salsa music became one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century. For over five decades, her powerful voice and electrifying rhythm garnered worldwide recognition as well as multiple platinum and gold records, GRAMMY© awards, honorary doctorates, the Presidential Medal of Arts, and a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. By celebrating her Cuban culture, she helped Afro-Latino Americans embrace their heritage, making her an important cultural icon.

Zitkala-Ša was an activist, writer, gifted musician, and fierce advocate for Native American rights and citizenship. Her activist work led to the passage of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924. She co-founded the National Council for the American Indians to further the fight for American Indian and indigenous rights. She also collaborated on what is considered the first known Native American Opera, a powerful way to share her values and culture with diverse audiences.