Groundbreaking Essay Anthology on Writing Behind Bars Published
Today marks the publication of The Sentences that Create Us: Crafting a Writer’s Life in Prison (Haymarket Books), gathering stories and writing guidance from some of today’s most exciting… More
PEN America Mourns Passing of E. O. Wilson
"As a scientist, E.O. Wilson inspired generations with his curiosity, rigorous research, and passion for discovery," said Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf, senior director of Literary Programs at PEN America. More
Letter: President Biden Must Sanction Individuals Responsible for Human Rights Violations in Eastern Ukraine
We write to urge the immediate imposition of targeted sanctions against the individuals responsible for grave human rights violations in the areas of eastern Ukraine. More
PEN America Reacts to Joan Didion Passing
"The loss of Joan Didion carves an enormous hole in American literature and culture," said President of PEN America Ayad Akhtar. More
New Stop W.O.K.E. Act Fits Disturbing Pattern in Education Culture War
Governor DeSantis’s Stop W.O.K.E. Act, while undoubtedly aggressive, is no aberration. On the contrary, it is increasingly—and disturbingly—business as usual. More
PEN America Mourns bell hooks Passing
"PEN America mourns the death of bell hooks, an inspirational author, professor, and activist. We are beyond grateful for her work on race, gender, and class, as well as… More
PEN America Announces 2022 Literary Awards Longlists
“This year’s Longlists speak to the extraordinary diversity of the global literary canon, and showcases an incredible wealth of stories and voices from a true cross-section of writers and… More
Scope and Speed of Educational Gag Orders Worsening Across the Country
In the month since the release of our report, educational gag orders have grown more sweeping in scope and become law with increasing speed. More
PEN America Welcomes Introduction of Platform Accountability and Transparency Act
Senators Chris Coons, Amy Klobuchar, and Rob Portman yesterday introduced the Platform Accountability and Transparency Act, which would shine a light on the inner workings of big tech platforms… More
Here Are Four Things Educational Gag Orders Could Ban
We offer illustrative examples of texts, documents, and discourse that educational gag orders could bar from being taught or discussed in classrooms. More
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