PEN America

PEN America. It is the largest center of the global PEN International network, an association of writers founded in London in 1921 to promote intellectual cooperation. Established in 1922, it has grown into a preeminent organization defending free expression, celebrating literary culture, and advocating for writers and journalists at risk. Headquartered in New York City, it engages in advocacy, literary programming, and human rights work both domestically and internationally.

History

The organization was founded in 1922 by notable literary figures including Catherine Amy Dawson Scott and led by its first president, Booth Tarkington. Its early members, such as Eugene O'Neill and Robert Frost, championed the principle that literature transcends national borders. During the mid-20th century, it was active in aiding writers fleeing Nazi Germany and later opposed censorship during the Cold War and the McCarthy era. A pivotal moment came in 2016 when it merged with the PEN Center USA in Los Angeles, consolidating its national presence and expanding its advocacy across the United States.

Mission and activities

Its core mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Central to its work is the Freedom to Write program, which advocates for imprisoned and persecuted writers worldwide, from Turkey to China. Domestically, it combats book banning and educational censorship through litigation and public campaigns, often partnering with groups like the American Library Association. It also hosts major public events, including the annual PEN America Literary Awards and the World Voices Festival, which bring together global literary voices in dialogue.

Leadership and structure

The organization is led by a Chief Executive Officer, a role held since 2013 by Suzanne Nossel, a former official at the U.S. Department of State and Amnesty International. Its president is the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ayad Akhtar. Governance is provided by a Board of Trustees composed of prominent writers, editors, and philanthropists. It operates with a professional staff across offices in New York City and Los Angeles, and its membership includes thousands of poets, essayists, novelists, and journalists. Key support comes from foundations like the Ford Foundation and the Knight Foundation.

Controversies and criticism

The organization has faced significant criticism, particularly from some writers and activists who accuse it of inadequately addressing issues related to Israel and Palestine. In 2023, over half of the nominees for its PEN/Jean Stein Book Award withdrew in protest, citing its response to the Israel–Hamas war. Critics, including members of the group Writers Against the War on Gaza, have staged protests at events like the PEN America Gala. It has also been scrutinized for its corporate partnerships and perceived slow response to rising antisemitism and Islamophobia, leading to internal debates and the resignation of some board members.

Notable programs and awards

Its literary awards are among the most prestigious in the field, including the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction and the PEN Open Book Award. The PEN/Heim Translation Fund grants support for translating world literature into English. Beyond awards, key initiatives include the PEN America Writing for Justice Fellowship, which mentors writers impacted by mass incarceration, and the PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award, honoring imprisoned writers like Egypt's Ahmed Naji and Myanmar's Kyaw Win. Its Dignity and Discourse program works to foster dialogue on university campuses facing free speech challenges.

Category:Writers' organizations Category:Free speech organizations Category:Organizations based in New York City Category:1922 establishments in New York (state)