
Online Abuse
The Issue
Online abuse—from violent threats and hateful slurs to sexual harassment and doxing—poses a direct and pressing threat to free expression. Writers, journalists, and artists require an online presence to do their work. But they are targeted for their profession and their identity, especially if they identify as women, people of color, LGBTQ+, and as members of religious or ethnic minorities. We know that online abuse challenges livelihoods, undermines equity, and stifles free speech. We also know that it can lead to offline violence and put lives at risk.
PEN America is committed to fighting online abuse and making online spaces safer, more equitable, and more free by:
1. equipping those facing abuse with resources and trainings to defend themselves;
2. collaborating with media organizations, universities, and other employers to protect and support staff facing harassment;
3. conducting research and advocacy to hold social media companies accountable for online harms; and
4. working in coalition with partner organizations to fight back.
Online abuse stifles free expression.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Join PEN America and the Coalition Against Online Violence to tell the platforms it’s time to step up and #FightOnlineAbuseNow.

Commentary

Facebook, Twitter, and the World’s Most Dangerous Amusement Park

No One Should Have To Face Online Abuse Alone

An Online SOS: How Social Media Companies Can Provide Real-Time Support for Targets of Online Abuse

Shielding Users From Online Abuse: A Free Speech-Conscious Approach to Fighting Harassment

Three Ways Social Media Companies Can Disarm Abusive Users

Five Steps Social Media Companies Can Take Now to Fight Online Abuse
Tip Sheets and Resources

You’re Not Powerless in the Face of Online Harassment

What to Do When Your Employee is Harassed Online

Why You Should Dox Yourself (Sort Of)
Events
Bystander Intervention: How To Be An Ally When You Witness Online Abuse
ThuOctober 132022Bystander Intervention: How To Be An Ally When You Witness Online Abuse
WedSeptember 282022Bystander Intervention: How To Be An Ally When You Witness Online Abuse
TueAugust 232022Get Updates and Join Us to Fight Back Against Online Abuse
Sign up to join our campaign to #FightOnlineAbuseNOW and to get updates on training, tips, and resources for navigating online harassment.