Martin Luther King Jr. was a pioneer in the Civil Rights Movement, championing an end to laws that perpetuated racial discrimination.

But there are others — whose names aren't as well known — who have followed in his footsteps. Jeff Scheid, a photographer with The Nevada Independent, spent the past year capturing portraits of some of Southern Nevada's most notable African-American leaders who have contributed to the community's cultural, political, business and education spheres. Erica Vital-Lazare, a creative writing professor at the College of Southern Nevada, listened to their stories and wrote narratives to accompany the portraits.

The exhibit, which features 21 photographs, debuts Jan. 31 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Clark County Government Center. It will be open to the public 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday until March 8.

Here's a glimpse of some photos that will be featured in the gallery: