The U.S. Mint released a new quarter yesterday, August 12, honoring Stacey Park Milbern, a prominent disability justice activist who passed away in 2020 at the age of 33.

Milbern, who had congenital muscular dystrophy, spent her life advocating for disability rights, especially at the intersection of race, gender, and class. 

The coin features Milbern in her motorized wheelchair, one hand placed near her heart and the other extended. According to the Mint, this pose symbolizes “the exchange of ideas and allyship.” Alongside her image is the phrase “Disability Justice,” a nod to the term she helped define.

Milbern is the youngest individual honored in the American Women Quarters Program, which began in 2022 to celebrate 20 women who have shaped American history.

While most figures in the series are historical icons from earlier centuries, Milbern’s inclusion signals a meaningful shift toward recognizing recent and intersectional voices in U.S. history.

This coin marks the 14th release in the 20-coin series and reflects a broader conversation about how public symbols can embody current societal values and discussions.

As the series continues, advocates hope this quarter will inspire greater awareness and dialogue about disability justice, representation, and inclusion.

This article has information from the Disability Scoop and Jim Bullion.