Bill to honor Toni Morrison advances to governor's desk

COLUMBUS— State Reps. Joe Miller (D-Amherst) and Stephanie Howse (D-Cleveland) today announced the Ohio Senate passage of House Bill (HB) 325, legislation honoring the late author Toni Morrison by designating her birthday, Feb. 18, as “Toni Morrison Day” in Ohio. HB 325 now advances to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

Morrison, a native of Lorain, rose to prominence through novels and non-fiction works that often examined black identity in America. Her works, including the novels Beloved and Song of Solomon, earned her a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, a Nobel Prize in Literature, the National Book Foundation's Medal for Distinguished Contributions to American Letters, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Morrison will also be officially inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls, New York on Dec. 10, 2020.

“The significance of Toni Morrison’s life is a continual source of inspiration for people across the country, state, and especially in our home county of Lorain. This legislation is an expression of appreciation for her life and legacy, and will serve as an annual reminder of her impact. Her work will continue to inspire Ohioans for future generations to come,” said Rep. Miller. 

“Toni Morrison’s life and timeless works stirred our souls, challenged our conscience to confront injustices, and encouraged the rest of the world to do the same. The designation of Toni Morrison Day will be forever cherished by Ohioans, people around the globe, and future generations,” said Rep. Howse