Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac boasted on social media this Wednesday about having in his possession a coin featuring the image of singer Celia Cruz (1925-2003), which will officially circulate in the United States starting August 12. "Already in my hand," the comedian said on Facebook while showing off the coin, which is part of the American Women Quarters 2024 program that honors five distinguished female personalities of the nation.
"Friday, Friday!" Toirac also wrote, taking the opportunity to remind his followers that he has a proposal related to the Queen of Salsa for that day. "By the end of this week, I have two things for you: a surprise and a proposal that I think you'll love," Toirac announced last Monday on the social network. The comedian has been promoting an initiative for days, which he has only hinted is related to a Cuban singer.
The popular comedian recently acknowledged his deep admiration for the figure of Celia Cruz. He recalled that in 2015, during a work trip, he participated in an Independence Day celebration. At the National Museum of American History in Washington, "I remember walking through the entrance and seeing an entire lobby wall filled with colors, highlighting the image of Celia Cruz and the Cuban flag."
"I suddenly felt that in that place, there was a piece of my most intimate personality, my cradle, my home, my roots," he noted. "They were paying tribute to the unparalleled talent of a daughter of this island. And, therefore, to the culture of Cuba. That is being an ambassador of culture and the Nation. Only the truly great of a country can achieve that," Toirac remarked, expressing his surprise that the United States would honor Cruz, who is censored but not forgotten in her homeland.
"I felt incredibly proud in that piece of the museum, something I will never forget as long as I live," he wrote emotionally. Toirac hinted at that moment that holding that coin—which he now possesses—would be like feeling "a little like that day in Washington. Infinite thanks."
Celia Cruz's followers worldwide never forget the legacy and work of the unique Cuban singer. Her admirers gathered this July 16 in New York to pay tribute to the iconic "Guarachera de Cuba" on the 21st anniversary of her death.
Celebrating Celia Cruz and Her Legacy
To further understand the impact of Celia Cruz and the significance of the coin, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
What is the American Women Quarters 2024 program?
The American Women Quarters 2024 program is an initiative by the U.S. government to honor five distinguished female personalities by featuring their images on quarters.
When will the Celia Cruz coin be officially circulated?
The Celia Cruz coin will officially circulate in the United States starting August 12, 2024.
Why is Celia Cruz significant to Cuban culture?
Celia Cruz is significant to Cuban culture because of her unparalleled talent and contributions to music, representing the essence and spirit of Cuban culture worldwide.
How did Ulises Toirac express his admiration for Celia Cruz?
Ulises Toirac expressed his admiration for Celia Cruz by sharing his emotional experiences and memories related to her legacy and by proudly displaying the Celia Cruz coin.