Toni x2: How Bambara and Morrison Reshaped the Literary Landscape

TONI x 2: How Bambara and Morrison Reshaped the Literary Landscape

Film Screening + Panel Discussion + Mini Publishing Workshop

In partnership with Metropolitan AME Church, March On! presents Toni x 2 — an afternoon exploring the powerful creative connection between two of the most influential figures in American literary history: Toni Cade Bambara and Toni Morrison.

THE FILM

We open with a screening of TBC: The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing (2025, 105 min.) — a compelling portrait of Bambara as a writer, filmmaker, and cultural strategist who inspired generations to use storytelling as a tool for community empowerment. Structured as a series of lessons on cultural organizing, the film draws on the voices of Bambara's friends, colleagues, and students to illuminate a life dedicated to art, justice, and community.

THE CONVERSATION

At the heart of this program is the dynamic relationship between Toni Cade Bambara and Toni Morrison — two women whose collaboration transformed both literature and cultural life. Their partnership stands as a powerful example of how writing and editorship together can influence culture and advance social change.

Following the screening, filmmaker Louis J. Massiah will be joined by Dana A. Williams, author of Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer's Legendary Editorship, for a panel conversation and mini publishing workshop moderated by acclaimed author, literary coach, and founder of the Hurston/Wright Foundation, Marita Golden. Together, they will explore the legacies of both Tonis and reflect on the critical role of editors, writers, and cultural leaders in shaping the stories that define our world.

THE VENUE

This program takes place at Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church — one of Washington DC's most historic and storied institutions. For generations, Metropolitan has served as both a sacred space for spiritual growth and a driving force in the civic, cultural, and intellectual life of African Americans and the broader community. It is a fitting home for an evening dedicated to the power of storytelling to inform, connect, and inspire action.

EVENT DETAILS

📅 Saturday, June 20, 2026 🕒 3PM (doors open at 2:30PM) 📍 Metropolitan AME Church, Douglas Hall · 1518 M Street NW, Washington DC 20005 🎟 $5 · Give what moves you · Your contribution keeps this work alive and accessible for our entire community

This program invites audiences to engage not only with history but with the ongoing power of storytelling to shape the world we are building together.

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