Karen Clark Legacy of Equality and Justice | Minneapolis News

Minnesota’s trailblazing LGBTQ+ pioneer and longtime state legislator Karen Clark, who died at 80 after a brief illness, leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking advocacy. Elected in 1981 and serving nearly 40 years, she became the first openly gay person in the Minnesota legislature and helped pass landmark protections against discrimination and marriage equality. A fierce environmental justice champion, she co-founded the Women’s Environmental Institute and pushed forward the stalled East Phillips Roof Depot project—a vital urban farm and community hub. Her life’s work continues to shape Minnesota’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and sustainability. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/11c343cb9557b556