Support PEN America – Become a Reader Member

Your Support is Needed to Fight Back Against Book Bans and Censorship

PEN America took action against multiple free expression violations in 2025. Our report on the administration’s first 100 days, “A Five Alarm Fire for Free Speech”, warned that fundamental constitutional rights were already being undermined.

Soon after, explicit examples emerged: more than 350+ banned words scrubbed from federal websites, grants, and proposals; the President’s request—and Congress’ compliance—to claw back funding for public radio and television; and the disappearance of journalist Mario Guevara from the streets of Atlanta.

We also exposed unreasonable book removals in Monroe County, TN, which swept up reference books, history texts, and even Calvin and Hobbes. If you want to join a community that acts when public broadcasting is threatened or when journalists are deported, becoming a PEN America member may be the most meaningful “subscription” you choose this year.

Protect the Freedom to Read with Reader Membership

A donation of $50 or more will give you access to Reader Member benefits:

• Privileged access to PEN experts on member-exclusive webinars with our leading experts, lawyers, and leadership.
• A front-row seat to literary culture. Invitations and discounted rates to:
  • The annual World Voices Festival and Literary Awards in New York City
  • Exclusive lineup of Authors’ Evenings
  • The annual Literary Gala Afterparty