The Mirabal Sisters Read By Jackie Cruz

(This episode originally aired June 23rd, 2019) Once upon a time, four sisters led their country to freedom. Their names were Minerva, Patria, Maria Teresa, and Dedé. Though they lived in a beautiful country, it was ruled by a cruel and arrogant dictator. Minerva wanted to do something about the injustices she saw, so she recruited her sisters, hosted secret meetings, and gathered weapons for a revolution. Tragically, three of the sisters did not live to see their plan enacted. But Dedé lived on to tell the story of her three brave sisters known as Las Mariposas, The Butterflies.About the Narrator: Actor, musician, activist and feminist Jackie Cruz currently stars as “Marisol ‘Flaca’ Gonzales" on Netflix's critically-acclaimed series, “Orange Is the New Black.” The original series created by Jenji Kohan that became an awards magnet, will soon release the 7th and final season in 2019. A three-time SAG Award winner, Jackie Cruz was named one of the "Top Latino Powerhouses under 40" by The Hollywood Reporter in 2013. Cruz was also included on Latina Magazine’s 30 Under 30 List in 2015. Born in New York City, Cruz spent her childhood between New York, Los Angeles, the Dominican Republic and Miami. She often says that she carries a little piece of each city with her. Raised by her mother and aunts, Jackie’s first love was always music. Landing a principal title in “Orange is the New Black” was a launching pad for her career.Cruz draws strength from a near-fatal car accident that almost left her paralyzed. She overcame brain surgery, a coma and a collapsed lung, but remained unwavered in her determination to not let anything stand in the way of her dream to become a musician.Through her voice and remarkably strong social media presence, Jackie continues paving the way for Latina women in entertainment. Cruz strongly promotes the inclusion of all women.She works hard to break down gender driven barriers through her own production company, Unspoken Film. Jackie’s mission is to create and produce work under her production company that speaks to inclusivity topics and Latina representation. Jackie has discovered the importance of inclusion and uses her platform to send a message that more Latinas need recognition and opportunities in Hollywood.Now recognized as a popular singer and songwriter, her music career continues to evolve. She has new music releasing mid-March and hopes that through her music and film work, she will continue to create better pathways within the entertainment industry for people of Hispanic background. Jackie currently resides in both Los Angeles and New York City.Credits: This episode of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls is produced by Elena Favilli, Joy Fowlkes, and Meg Murnane, with writing by Corinne Purtill and narration by Jackie Cruz. Jestine Ware edited all scripts and Janice Weaver fact-checked all scripts. Sound design and original theme music by Elettra Bargiacchi. Mattia Marcelli was the sound mixer. Special thanks to Clio McClure who coordinated all credit recordings and narrator donations.