This is a dire moment for free expression and human rights in Afghanistan

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Dear Friend —

Almost two decades after being driven out of Kabul by U.S. troops, the Taliban have taken control of Afghanistan's capital city. The situation is growing increasingly dire, especially for writers, journalists, and other free expression advocates.

PEN America urges the U.S. government to expand and expedite visa processes for Afghan writers, journalists, cultural actors, and other free expression advocates who face great risks amid the Taliban's tightening control of the country. Write to your member of Congress and ask that they urge the Biden Administration to protect writers and human rights defenders in Afghanistan now. ([link removed])

TELL CONGRESS TO PROTECT AFGHAN WRITERS NOW ([link removed])

We've been here before, Friend. When an authoritarian, extremist regime seizes power, human rights defenders, public intellectuals, and members of the media and creative sectors are often among the first to be targeted. This is a critical moment for freedom of expression and human rights in Afghanistan, and we need your help now to protect these vital voices.

I know we’ve relied on your support time and time again. By contributing to PEN America now ([link removed]) , or writing to your member of Congress ([link removed]) now, you'll be helping to ensure that writers, human rights defenders, and cultural actors can continue to tell their stories, and tell the truth about what's happening in Afghanistan.

Thank you,

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Summer Lopez
Senior Director, Free Expression Programs
PEN America

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