Free Speech Organizations Criticize Florida Colleges and Universities’ Response to Student Protests
“Free expression, coupled with dissent and critical thinking, are fundamental pillars to higher education institutions. Especially during these moments, administrators must respond to student protests in a way that… More
PEN America: Request by Columbia U President for NYPD to Remain on Campus Through May 17 is Alarming
"We are further disturbed by reports that press access to campus was limited during the arrests at Hamilton Hall and by allegations that student reporters were threatened with arrest.… More
Bill Intended to Combat Antisemitism Could Also Undermine Free Speech, Academic Freedom and Legitimate Political Discourse
Combating antisemitic speech and bigotry is an urgent imperative and one that PEN America seeks. In light of the significant rise in antisemitic incidents around the country, the goal… More
Growing Reports of Use of Force Against Student Protests Are Deeply Alarming
While campus leaders have a responsibility for the safety of all on campus, threatening arrest and deploying police against peaceful protesters is a severe and drastic measure that in… More
PEN America Cancels 2024 World Voices Festival
“The idea that only those who adhere to a particular ideology or worldview are worthy of engagement is inimical to the spirit of PEN America and World Voices,” said… More
Statement by PEN America on Campus Protests
As campuses continue to see growing student mobilization, we call on campus administrators to uphold their obligations to safeguard peaceful protest and free expression; protect students from harassment and… More
PEN America Statement Regarding the 2024 Literary Awards Ceremony and Conferral of Annual Prizes
“We greatly respect that writers have followed their consciences, whether they chose to remain as nominees in their respective categories or not,” said Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf. “We regret that… More
Legal Filing by PEN America Urges Appeals Court to Uphold Injunction Against Iowa’s Book Ban Law
Katie Blankenship, director of PEN America’s Florida office, said: “Under the guise of protecting children from so-called age-inappropriate content, laws like SF496 are a smokescreen for censorship of constitutionally-protected… More
PEN America Lauds Resolution in Congress Marking April as “Preserving and Protecting Local News Month”
“Throughout our nation’s history, local news has been a bulwark for holding power to account and advancing a pluralistic democracy that represents and includes all, irrespective of their background… More
Response to Prism Reports Article Raising Concern Over Cash Prize Money Delays for Prize-Winning Incarcerated Writers
As a long-term course correction, PJW has already created an internal audit system to double check to ensure all payments that go out each month are received by the… More