Literary Engagement & Activism Fund Application

At a juncture when communities are polarized and disengaged from one another, PEN America sees literature as a catalyst for empathy, a window into lives and contexts not our own, and a springboard for conversations that break down ideological barriers dividing our nation. The PEN America Literary Engagement & Activism Fund is now supporting PEN America Members and allies in communities across the country to bring writers and writing to this effort. The fund is helping local initiatives that facilitate community discourse on complex, often divisive social issues, amplify and empower the voices of marginalized communities, and share the power of literary expression. In addition to offering small grants, PEN America has experts on free expression, literary activism, and event planning ready to help.

We are currently accepting proposals for projects from individuals, organizations, and community groups to support activities that involve writing, journalism, and the literary community in promoting dialogue across difference. PEN America’s Literary Engagement & Activism Fund will provide grants of $500-$3,000 to support these activities between now and June 30, 2021.

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