On January 16, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs was proud to join with other state agencies in the 37th annual MLK Day celebration at the Ordway Center for Performing Arts in St. Paul. Developed by the Governor’s Council on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday and hosted by Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan, the event recognized the historic achievements of Dr. King and how important it is to carry forward his legacy, wisdom and work.

Speakers, presenters and performers included the Shiloh Temple Choir; U.S. Bank Chief Diversity Officer Greg Cunningham; artist and educator Joe Davis; dancer, singer and actress Vie Boheme; Chanda Smith Baker, Chief Impact Officer and Senior Vice President, Minneapolis Foundation; artist and producer Javonta Patton; and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Commissioner Steve Grove.

Ghanian-American researcher, entrepreneur and writer Anna Gifty Opuku-Agyman, a co-founder of the non-profit Sadie Collective – which aims to increase the number of Black women working in economic, finance and public policy fields – delivered the keynote.

“MLK Day impacts all of us,” said Jean Kim Maierhofer, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “This holiday focuses on calling people to service, building stronger communities, advancing equity and following a non-violent pathway to change – things that can make the world a better place for everyone.”

This event was livestreamed and recorded so that individuals who could not attend would have the opportunity to view it at a later date. Click here for more information.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday is an official National Day of Service and a call to action for people of America to make their communities more equitable. Dr. King fought for systemic change to make his dream of a Beloved Community, one in which everyone is cared for, a reality. Thousands of volunteer opportunities to help care for others can be found through the Points of Light organization.

On MLK Day and beyond, we’re proud to welcome individuals to engage with their communities and volunteer in service to others.

Note: Over the next few months, the Ordway will be offering a variety of programs focused on cultural awareness and enlightenment. For additional details, please visit their events page.