PEN America

PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect open expression at home and abroad. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at PEN.org

PEN America was founded in 1922 and is the largest of the 144 PEN centers in 101 countries that together comprise PEN International. Our more than 4,000 Members—who represent the most distinguished writers, translators, editors, booksellers, librarians, students, and passionate readers who share PEN’s ideals—form the cornerstone of PEN America’s ability to advocate for the rights of writers and readers.