Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In celebration of “Selena Day” and to honor the legacy of one of South Texas’s most beloved cultural icons, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) has introduced the Selena Commemorative Coin Act. The legislation seeks to recognize Selena Quintanilla-Pérez’s lasting impact on music, culture, and American history by authorizing the U.S. Mint to issue a commemorative coin in her name.
“Selena Quintanilla-Pérez is remembered as ‘The Queen of Tejano’ for her passion, talent, and music that changed the industry forever. Selena inspired millions by elevating Tejano music to the mainstream and shattering glass ceilings. Honoring her with a coin is more than symbolic; it’s a step forward in recognizing her contributions to American history and keeping her memory alive for generations,” said Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz.
The proposed coin would celebrate Selena’s legacy as a groundbreaking artist who brought Tejano music to international prominence. Born in Lake Jackson, Texas, and raised in Corpus Christi, Selena’s influence exploded in the early 1990s. Her 1994 album Amor Prohibido became one of the best-selling Latin albums in the United States, and her posthumous 1995 English-language debut Dreaming of You topped the Billboard 200 chart — a historic feat for a Latin artist then.
April 16, Selena’s birthday, is recognized as Selena Day in Texas and continues to be commemorated by fans throughout the Rio Grande Valley and worldwide.
Selena’s life was tragically cut short at age 23, but her legacy continues to flourish through multiple generations. Her achievements include a Grammy Award, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, a namesake museum in Corpus Christi, and numerous tributes across film, television, and music. Her signature songs like Como La Flor, Bidi Bidi Bom Bom, and No Me Queda Más remain cultural staples to day.
In addition to her musical success, Selena was also a fashion entrepreneur, role model, and advocate for education. Her story remains a symbol of perseverance, talent, and the enduring spirit of the Latino community.
If passed, the Selena Commemorative Coin Act would represent a significant national acknowledgment of her cultural impact, preserving her memory not only in hearts and playlists but also in the history of the United States.
