The Junior League of Minneapolis

For the final day of Black History Month, we’re honoring Sharon Sayles Belton. Sharon Sayles Belton is a leader who has made history — and made a difference. In 1994, she became the first African American and first woman to serve as mayor of Minneapolis, breaking barriers and leading with vision. But her impact goes far beyond politics. She co-founded the Harriet Tubman Shelter for Battered Women and the National Coalition Against Sexual Assault, dedicating her career to protecting and uplifting others. A true trailblazer, she turned advocacy into action, creating lasting change in her community. Sharon Sayles Belton didn’t just lead — she opened doors for the next generation to follow.

Tamara Moore has been breaking barriers since she first picked up a basketball. A Minneapolis native, she grew up studying the game, taking stats on a homemade scorecard while watching the Bulls dynasty of the ’90s. She played six seasons in the WNBA and another six internationally, proving herself as an elite athlete. But she didn’t stop there. She made history as the second woman to ever coach a men’s college team at Mesabi Range and the first African American woman to do so. Her journey from player to coach is a testament to passion, perseverance and paving the way for others. Tamara Moore isn’t just making history — she’s changing the game.

Lena Smith was a force to be reckoned with — a trailblazer who shattered barriers and fought tirelessly for justice. As the first Black woman lawyer in Minnesota, she used her voice and legal skills to challenge discrimination and advocate for civil rights. She became the first Black woman president of the Minneapolis NAACP, leading the charge for racial equality in the city. In a time when the odds were stacked against her, she stood firm, proving that change happens when bold leaders refuse to back down. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of activists and advocates. Lena Smith didn’t just make history — she paved the way for others to follow.

Josie R. Johnson has spent a lifetime breaking barriers and fighting for justice. From marching on Washington to riding for freedom in the segregated South, she has never backed down in the face of inequality. In Minnesota, she played a key role in securing fair housing rights for Black families and helped bring the concept of freedom schools to the state, empowering Black parents and communities. Her leadership continued as she became the first Black woman to serve on the University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents in 1971. On the national stage, she helped shape history as deputy campaign manager for Jimmy Carter’s 1980 presidential run. Her legacy is one of activism, education, and unwavering determination. Because of trailblazers like Josie Johnson, doors that were once closed are now open.

What makes The Junior League of Minneapolis so incredible? Just ask our members! In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re sharing a few reasons why they love JLM.

Harriet Robinson Scott’s fight for freedom is a story of resilience. While history often focuses on her husband, Dred Scott, Harriet was just as determined — suing for her own freedom and enduring years of legal battles. Born into slavery, she lived at Fort Snelling in free territory, yet still remained enslaved. She gave birth to her daughter, Eliza, on a steamboat between free states, highlighting the cruel contradictions of the time. When her enslaver refused to grant their freedom, she and Dred took their case to court, leading to the infamous Supreme Court ruling that denied Black people U.S. citizenship. Though the decision deepened the nation’s divide, Harriet’s fight was not in vain — the Scotts were eventually freed. Her courage helped shape history, reminding us that the pursuit of justice is often led by those whose names we should never forget.

Our celebration of Black History Month continues with Toni Stone! Marcenia Lyle (Toni “Tomboy”) Stone was raised in the St. Paul Rondo neighborhood. She broke both gender and racial barriers by becoming the first female professional baseball player in the Negro Major League.

In honor of Black History Month, we are featuring women in Black History who have made an impact in Minnesota, the United States and our daily lives. However, as The Junior League of Minneapolis, we’re going to be highlighting women with ties to the communities we serve. First, we recognize Nellie Stone Johnson. Nellie Stone Johnson was a powerhouse for workers’ rights, education and racial justice. A trailblazer in labor organizing, she became the first woman vice president of both the Minnesota Culinary Council and Local 665 Hotel and Restaurant Employees Union. In 1945, she made history as the first Black person elected to citywide office in Minneapolis, winning a seat on the Library Board. Her passion for education ran deep — rooted in her family’s legacy, she pursued her own studies with determination, even financing college by trapping. She later championed education through her work on the Minnesota Education Board and the State Colleges and Universities Board. A lifelong advocate, she was deeply involved in civil rights and political organizations, shaping policy and opening doors for future generations. Nellie Stone Johnson didn’t just fight for change — she built a legacy of empowerment that continues today.

One of our favorite volunteer opportunities is when we get to partner with Minneapolis Public Schools. We had such a great time with the K-3 kids learning about their ocean projects and the importance of keeping our planet clean! We loved hearing their ideas on protecting our oceans and the Earth. Safe to say, we’re already counting down ‘til next year and all the new projects!

Today, we honor the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose unwavering commitment to justice and equality continues to inspire us. The Junior League of Minneapolis invites you to join us in reflecting on his vision for a better future and finding ways to serve your community. Together, we can create a world where equality and compassion thrive.