(NEW YORK)– PEN America announced today that Craig Newmark Philanthropies (CNP) has generously renewed its support for the organization’s digital safety work. This crucial funding will bolster PEN America’s efforts to protect journalists, media professionals, and researchers in the U.S., particularly those from marginalized communities facing threats, intimidation, and abuse online.

“I often say that journalism is the immune system of democracy. But attacks against a free and independent press are on the rise in the U.S., especially during elections,” said philanthropist Craig Newmark, “I want to ensure that nonprofits like PEN America can continue to provide journalists and researchers the support they need to stay safe and to be able to do their vital work.”

Viktorya Vilk, director of Digital Safety and Free Expression at PEN America, said: “Craig was one of the very first philanthropists to recognize that online attacks are deployed to intimidate and silence reporters and writers. We deeply appreciate his steadfast support over the years. This grant allows us to expand our reach, providing essential training and resources to local journalists and researchers on the frontlines of defending democracy as they navigate a contentious election.”

CNP’s support is a vital contribution to PEN America’s mission to safeguard free expression and will be used to provide digital safety training, consultation, and individualized support to journalists and researchers, media outlets, universities, and nonprofit organizations.

Through this partnership, PEN America will also mobilize the Coalition Against Online Violence (CAOV) to advocate for media industry standards and best practices that ensure better protection for at-risk journalists. A coalition of 80+ organizations working globally to find better solutions for women journalists facing online abuse, CAOV was created by the International Women’s Media Foundation with the encouragement and support of CNP.

About PEN America:
 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. Learn more at pen.org.

About Craig Newmark Philanthropies: 

Craig Newmark Philanthropies was created by craigslist founder Craig Newmark to support and connect people and drive broad civic engagement. It works to advance people and grassroots organizations that are getting stuff done in areas that include trustworthy journalism & the information ecosystem, voter protection, gender diversity in technology, and veterans & military families. For more information, please visit: CraigNewmarkPhilanthropies.org.

Contact: Suzanne Trimel, [email protected], 201-247-5057