Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Women Who Powered the Movement in Minnesota and Beyond

Nellie Stone Johnson with NAACP leaders, Minnesota Historical Society

As we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this year, we take a moment to highlight an often-overlooked truth: the fight for civil liberties has always been powered by women. From organizing marches and mobilizing communities to serving as critical strategists behind the scenes, women have played an essential role in making Dr. King’s vision a reality.
Women have been at the forefront of the fight for civil liberties throughout history, long before the 1960s and continuing today. The civil rights movement of the 20th century drew strength from their tireless efforts, and here in Minnesota, women have played a vital role in championing racial and gender equity across generations. Their work builds on a long legacy of advocacy, courage, and leadership that has shaped the fight for justice at every step.
The Women Behind the Movement

• Coretta Scott King: More than Dr. King’s wife, Coretta Scott King was a fierce advocate for justice in her own right. A talented speaker and organizer, she carried on her husband’s work after his assassination, championing racial and gender equality, as well as global peace.
• Ella Baker: Known as the “Mother of the Movement,” Baker spent decades organizing at the grassroots level, mentoring young leaders, and helping to establish the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). She believed in empowering communities to lead their own fights for justice.
• Fannie Lou Hamer: A sharecropper turned activist, Hamer co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and used her voice to challenge oppression and demand voting rights for Black Americans.
• Diane Nash: As one of the key leaders of the Freedom Rides and the SNCC, Nash was instrumental in planning and leading nonviolent campaigns for desegregation and voter registration.

These women, and countless others whose names are less well-known, embody the spirit of resilience, courage, and leadership that fueled the civil rights movement.
Minnesota’s Connection to the LegacyMinnesota has its own history of advancing civil rights, particularly through the work of women leaders:

• Nellie Stone Johnson: A Minnesota-born civil rights activist and labor organizer, Johnson was the first Black person elected to a citywide office in Minneapolis. She worked tirelessly for union rights and equal opportunities in education and employment.
• Josie R. Johnson: Known as the “First Lady of Minnesota Civil Rights,” Josie Johnson worked for decades to combat systemic racism and create a more equitable state. Her efforts include advancing fair housing laws, advocating for voting rights, and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
• The Minnesota Women’s Political Caucus: Founded in the 1970s, this organization has helped amplify the voices of women in public policy, advocating for equity in government and ensuring that civil rights remain a key focus of the state’s agenda.

Continuing the Work TodayDr. King’s legacy, and that of the women who stood beside him, reminds us of the power of collective action and the importance of lifting every voice. At [Your Organization Name], we honor their work by striving for a world where all people—regardless of gender, race, or background—have the opportunity to thrive.

​Whether through programs that empower women to overcome systemic barriers or partnerships that foster equity and inclusion, we carry forward the values of the civil rights movement by creating opportunities for those who need them most.

How You Can Honor Their Legacy:

• Learn about the women of the civil rights movement and Minnesota’s own civil rights leaders, sharing their stories widely.
• Support initiatives that champion racial and gender equity in your community.
• Mentor or empower women in your network to become leaders and changemakers.
• Advocate for policies that break down barriers for women and marginalized communities.

This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, let’s not only reflect on Dr. King’s dream but also remember the women who helped shape it—here in Minnesota and across the country. Their contributions remind us that progress is made when everyone has a seat at the table. Together, we can continue building the world they dreamed of—one where justice, opportunity, and equality are within reach for all.