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The Freedom to Write

PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world.

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The Writers Room

PEN America was created more than 100 years ago for writers and they remain at the heart of what we do. We support them with grants, fellowships, awards, workshops, and quality public programming while defending their freedom to write.

Opportunities for Writers & Translators

Upcoming Events

An artistic image of an open book with the text PEN America Literary Gala in yellow and white. The event is at the American Museum of Natural History on May 15, 2025.

PEN America Literary Gala

The annual PEN America Literary Gala is an inspiring, exhilarating, moving event as we honor those who embody PEN America’s mission to celebrate, champion, and defend freedom of expression. The proceeds from this event are crucial to PEN America’s dynamic cultural programming and advocacy work.

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Featured Work

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What We Do

PEN America celebrates literature and defends free expression.

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Featured Events

Author interviews, advocacy trainings, writers workshops, community gatherings and more.

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