Born in Lorain, Ohio, Toni Morrison was an acclaimed and influential novelist and essayist and became the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Her work addressed many serious issues, including the severe lasting impact racism has had on American society and the intersection between feminism and racial issues. The Toni Morrison Society, along with Literary Cleveland and the Ohioana Library Association, is hosting an ongoing project from Feb. 18, 2026, to Feb. 18, 2027, intended to celebrate the life, literature, and legacy of Toni Morrison.
Various literary and art-themed events run by libraries, organizations and arts groups throughout Ohio are the main focus of this year long celebration.
The goal of the project is to provide Ohioans with many opportunities to meet in person and connect with others in their community, as well as ways of connecting online through virtual programs and resources.
As part of Ohio Celebrates Toni Morrison, Sinclair will be hosting its 2026 Writer’s Workshop on Oct. 23, which will feature award-winning author, editor, professor, and cultural critic Roxane Gay.
Roxane Gay has authored many successful and influential books, including An Untamed State, Bad Feminist and World of Wakanda, with much of her writing analyzing and deconstructing feminist and racial issues.
The workshop will begin with her keynote address that will explore questions of voice and legacy, as well as the lasting influence and impact of Toni Morrison. This will be followed by an audience Q&A session, and then a small craft session that encourages participation.
The workshop is free and open to the public, though registration is required and priority will be given to Sinclair students. The workshop will take place on Oct. 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Building 10 on the Dayton campus. Information about other Ohio Celebrates Toni Morrison events can be found at their website.
Erik Larson, reporter
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