June 17, 2026 – The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation has been selected as one of only four sites in Illinois to receive a 2026–2027 NEA Big Read grant, placing Macon County among 71 organizations nationwide chosen for the highly competitive national initiative.
Funded by the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest, the NEA Big Read is designed to bring communities together through the shared experience of reading and discussion, encouraging deeper understanding of culture, identity, and civic life. The program also carries added significance this cycle as it aligns with the 250th anniversary of the United States, highlighting stories that reflect the nation’s history, complexity, and resilience.
For its community-wide read, the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation selected A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines, a powerful novel exploring justice, dignity, education, hope, and transformation in the face of systemic inequality. Though set in the Jim Crow South, the book’s themes continue to resonate across generations and communities today.
“As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, this year’s NEA Big Read offers communities the opportunity to come together and reflect on the richness and resilience of the American experience,” said Mary Anne Carter, chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts.
The NEA Big Read aims to spark meaningful dialogue, elevate diverse voices, and strengthen community connections through literature. Participating organizations are encouraged to build programming that reflects the unique character of their communities while using their selected book as a springboard for conversation, creativity, and engagement.
Beginning in September, residents across Macon County will have access to a wide range of events and activities, including reading groups, discussion circles, a community film screening, a bookmark design contest, and a special exhibit hosted by the Decatur Area Arts Council. Additional programming will be announced in the coming months and will be designed to encourage reflection, learning, and connection across all ages.
“We are thrilled to bring the NEA Big Read to our region,” said Natalie Beck. “This initiative will create opportunities for meaningful conversations, celebrate local creativity, and strengthen community connections through the shared experience of reading. We look forward to engaging readers of all ages and backgrounds as we explore the enduring themes of A Lesson Before Dying together.”
With the theme “Read. Reflect. Connect.” the initiative invites the community to come together not only to read a shared book, but to explore shared understanding—one conversation at a time.
More details about community events, book distribution opportunities, and ways to get involved will be announced in the coming months.
