Ohio's yearlong Toni Morrison celebration begins
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Toni Morrison in 1992. Photo: James Keyser/Getty Images
Ohio is about to kick off a yearlong celebration of literary giant Toni Morrison.
Why it matters: Born in Lorain, Morrison is one of the most important American writers of the last century and one of Ohio's most cherished cultural exports.
- The state is giving her her flowers while inviting residents to read Morrison's novels and wrestle with their enduring themes of race, history and democracy.
Driving the news: The celebration officially begins Wednesday, Feb. 18 — Morrison's birthday and Toni Morrison Day in Ohio — with an event at the Columbus Foundation.
- The opening features a conversation between writers Namwali Serpell and Hanif Abdurraqib, inspired by Serpell's new book "On Morrison."
- The event will be livestreamed and Northeast Ohio residents can also hear Serpell speak Friday, Feb. 20 at the City Club.
The big picture: The yearlong project, named for Morrison's most famous novel, "Beloved," is led by Ohio Humanities, Literary Cleveland and other partners.
Zoom in: A number of events are happening close to home throughout the year:
- Karamu House will host a kickoff event Feb. 18 that is already at max capacity.
- Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library will host story time readings of "Please, Louise," Morrison's children's book, Feb. 18.
- The East Cleveland Public Library will screen the documentary "Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am" Feb. 19.
- The Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers will host a performance and conversation celebrating "Song of Solomon" in June.
- The Cleveland Public Library will welcome author Andrea Davis Pinkney for a reading in September.
What's next: The yearlong program runs through Feb. 18, 2027, ending in Lorain with a closing celebration in Morrison's hometown.