Last night’s gala was a celebration of the power of words. Today, I want to thank you for being part of that virtual celebration, even if you weren’t able to tune in to our livestream (which you can watch here).

Because, Friend, PEN America as we know it would not be possible without supporters like you.

As our illustrious and courageous Honorees President Barack Obama, Patti Smith, Xu Zhiyong, Darnella Frazier, Marie Yovanovitch, and Frank A. Bennack Jr. took the virtual stage last night to share with us their remarks on the role that free expression and the freedom to write have played in their lives, I found myself reflecting on the history of PEN America, and the work that lies ahead of us. To quote newly elected PEN America President Ayad Akhtar, I’m heartened to think of the collective power of our community of “not always like-minded, but always like-hearted” writers, thinkers, and advocates. 

PEN America was formed in the aftermath of the First World War, a time when the notion of shared truths seemed to be unraveling. Today we are confronted with the challenges of an increasingly divided nation and smashmouth political discourse. There is much work ahead of us, but I am encouraged by the examples of writers and dissidents around the world and through history. So many have faced down risks even graver than those we now confront. I am inspired by the work of activists, advocates, and journalists who have risked their lives to express their views and expose injustice; and most of all, by your passion and commitment to our work. 

Help us continue fighting for the freedom to write. And thank you, as always, for your support as we close the chapter on this challenging year.

With gratitude,







Suzanne Nossel
PEN America CEO

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