Minnesota leaders are celebrating civil rights pioneer Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. "Here in Minnesota, we have a long tradition of advocacy and policy change," Minnesota Chief Equity Officer Ashley Oolman said.

SPRINGFIELD — In the annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., speakers called for action — not symbolic gestures — to bring economic justice, good schools and political fairness to everyone.

For some Black women, the high road led to the nation’s memorial to the civil rights leader.