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.

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.