As part of Ohio’s America 250 celebration, join Ohio Humanities and Literary Cleveland for the official kickoff of Beloved: Ohio Celebrates Toni Morrison, a yearlong, statewide tribute honoring the life, words, and legacy of Toni Morrison, Lorain, Ohio native and one of the most influential American writers of all time.

This special evening launches a historic statewide celebration spanning February 18, 2026, through February 18, 2027, and features a powerful, once-in-a-generation conversation between Namwali Serpell and Hanif Abdurraqib—two of today’s most vital literary voices—reflecting on Morrison’s enduring impact on literature, culture, and the American story.

Namwali Serpell, Harvard professor and author of On Morrison, brings deep scholarly insight and global perspective to Morrison’s work, while Hanif Abdurraqib, New York Times bestselling author of There’s Always This Year, offers a resonant cultural and poetic lens rooted in Black life, memory, and place. Together, their dialogue will explore why Morrison’s work continues to shape how we understand freedom, history, and ourselves.

This yearlong initiative recognizes Morrison’s enduring impact on American literature and history. Her novels, set between 1680 and 2012, offer a sweeping narrative of America itself. The kickoff marks both Toni Morrison Day in Ohio and the beginning of a collective, statewide exploration of her work and influence.

This virtual kickoff marks the beginning of a yearlong series of programs, readings, performances, and conversations taking place across Ohio.

This event will be livestreamed. Registered attendees will receive an email with login and viewing details closer to the event date. Please be sure to register using an email address you check regularly.

Click here to register.

Follow @ohiocelebratestonimorrison on Instagram and join our monthly newsletter to stay connected to the stories, conversations, and community shaping this yearlong celebration.