Ohio Justice Melody J. Stewart to Spotlight Law and Literacy in Akron Lecture

The Key Points

• Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody J. Stewart will deliver the keynote address at the John Brown Institute Fall Lecture in Akron.
• The event, “Liberty and Justice for All: The Powers of Reading, Writing and the Law,” focuses on the intersection of literacy and legal justice.
• Justice Stewart was the first African American woman elected to Ohio’s high court, and she brought her unique perspective on equality and the law.
• The lecture includes additional programming, such as a meet-and-greet session and a discussion of a historical novel about abolitionist John Brown.
• Tickets for the event range from $35 to $500, with proceeds supporting Summit County historical initiatives.

Ohio Justice Melody J. Stewart to Deliver Inspiring Lecture in Akron

Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody J. Stewart, the first African American woman elected to the state’s high court, will be the keynote speaker at the second annual John Brown Institute Fall Lecture in Akron. Justice Stewart’s presentation, “Liberty and Justice for All: The Powers of Reading, Writing and the Law,” will explore the vital connections between literacy and the legal system, offering insights into how reading and writing influence justice in society.

Event Details and Timing

The lecture will take place on Tuesday, November 21, at the City of Joy Enrichment Center at 610 W. Exchange Street in Akron. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the event will begin at 6:30 p.m. Dr. Hasan Kwame Jeffries, an associate professor of history at Ohio State University and the inaugural speaker for the lecture series, will return this year as the program’s emcee.

General admission tickets are $35 and can be purchased through Eventbrite. For those seeking a more interactive experience, patron and sponsor tickets, priced at $125 and $500, include access to a pre-event meet-and-greet with Justice Stewart and other special guests. Attendees at these levels will also receive a copy of Beat the Drum for Justice, a historical novel highlighting the legacy of abolitionist John Brown.

A Legacy of Leadership and Justice

Justice Stewart’s election to the Ohio Supreme Court marked a historic moment in the state’s judicial history. Known for her commitment to equality and education, she has long advocated for greater accessibility and understanding of the law. Her upcoming lecture will explore how literacy is critical in empowering individuals to navigate and challenge the legal system effectively.

Her topic ties into the broader mission of the John Brown Institute, which aims to promote justice and equity by exploring historical and contemporary issues through public discourse.

Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro, a key event supporter, highlighted the significance of hosting such discussions in Akron. “This lecture series not only honors John Brown’s legacy but also serves as a platform to address ongoing challenges in achieving liberty and justice for all,” she said.

Thematic Connections: Literacy and Legal Empowerment

The theme of this year’s lecture underscores the importance of literacy as a tool for legal empowerment. By linking reading and writing to the pursuit of justice, Justice Stewart seeks to inspire attendees to consider the transformative power of education in shaping equitable societies.

Her presentation will also explore how barriers to literacy and legal understanding disproportionately affect marginalized communities, limiting their ability to seek justice and protect their rights.

Supporting Local History and Engagement

Proceeds from the event will support the Summit County Historical Society, which organizes programs and initiatives that connect community members to the region’s rich history. By featuring speakers like Justice Stewart, the John Brown Institute seeks to foster dialogue on the past, present, and future of justice in America.

Justice Stewart’s presence at the event highlights the importance of diverse voices in shaping public understanding of legal and social issues. Her lecture promises to resonate with attendees, sparking conversations on how education and advocacy can drive meaningful change.

A Look Ahead

As the second installment of the John Brown Institute Fall Lecture series, this event continues to build on its mission of inspiring action and reflection through public education. With Justice Stewart at the helm, this year’s program is expected to draw a broad audience eager to engage with ideas that connect historical legacies to contemporary challenges.

For more information, including ticket purchases and event details, visit SummitHistory.org or call 330-535-1120.