CINCINNATI — America 250-Ohio and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center will host a two-day Underground Railroad Conference September 21–22 in downtown Cincinnati, bringing together historians, educators, students, and community leaders to reflect on Ohio’s pivotal role in the fight for freedom.
Themed “Interpretation”, the conference will explore three central aspects: Living History, Teaching Hard Histories, and Bridging Journeys Then and Now. Organizers say the event is designed to both honor the past and provide new ways to connect its lessons to the present.
Highlights include keynote addresses from nationally recognized speakers, student projects showcasing Black history, expert panel discussions, and interactive exhibits that immerse visitors in the stories of those who risked everything for freedom.
Featured speakers include:
- Dr. Hassan Jeffries, Ohio State University, Teaching Hard History
- Dr. David Childs, Northern Kentucky University, on his film Underground: Freedom Stories Along the Borderland
- Holly Brian Ragusa, Cincinnati writer and activist, presenting the Freedom Journey app
- Valerie Boyer, Ohio History Connection, Covert Messaging During the Underground Railroad
- Nicole Sutton, Columbus Metropolitan Library, Black America Genealogy
- Tariq Tarey, documentary photographer and filmmaker, Bridging Journeys
- Pastor Sharone Sing, Grace Christian Assembly in Ashtabula, closing address
📅 When:
- Sunday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Monday, Sept. 22, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
📍 Where:
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
50 Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
The conference is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. Media outlets interested in coverage or interviews may contact [email protected].
Since opening in 2004, the Freedom Center has welcomed more than 1.3 million visitors and launched initiatives like End Slavery Now to connect the lessons of the Underground Railroad with modern-day fights for justice. America 250-Ohio is Ohio’s official effort to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, spotlighting the state’s contributions to U.S. history.
