Governor's Council on the MLK Jr. Holiday

Governor Tim Walz signed Executive Order 23-08 continuing the purpose of the MLK Council and appointing the Chief Equity Officer as Chair.

The council ensures that Dr. King’s memory and his mission are kept alive in the minds and hearts of Minnesotans. The Council meets year round to help guide efforts, provide insight and knowledge, and assist the Chief Equity Officer and the Governor's Office of Equity, Opportunity, and Accessibility in the planning and hosting of the holiday celebration in honor of Dr. King at the state and local level in Minnesota. 

The Council was first established by Governor Rudy Perpich in 1986 and has been re-established or continued by succeeding governors. Governor Walz first continued the council in April 2019 and most recently on May 26, 2023. In January 2026, Minnesota will celebrate the 40^th Anniversary of the State’s MLK Holiday.