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. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible.

Over the past 100 years, PEN America has advocated for free expression, defended writers and artists at risk around the globe, and fought censorship in the United States and abroad. Our cause has been made all the more urgent by the current wave of book bans and censorship in schools. Learn how you can join us in the battle against book removals and restrictions >>

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