Summer Lopez here at PEN America. I’m writing with a quick request. Authoritarian leaders typically use the time between Christmas and New Year’s to issue unjust sentences or throw dissidents into prison, hoping that the world is too distracted to pay attention. We’ve seen it year after year, and we expect this December to be no different.

That’s why today I’m asking for your support. Our teams aren’t taking the time off. They are monitoring reports on the ground, talking to our partners, and preparing to contact the press and government officials if and when authoritarian leaders may decide to take drastic steps against dissidents and writers.

We are paying attention, each and every day. Your support gives us the tools to do that. Within the darkest prison cell or the most isolated courtroom, we have one message to persecuted writers around the world: We are with you.

Thanks again so much for your support and generosity this holiday season.

All the best,




Summer Lopez
Senior Director, Free Expression Programs
PEN America

Get More News, Events, and Updates from PEN America ›

You are receiving this e-mail because you opted in at PEN.org or a PEN America-sponsored event.

manage subscriptions | unsubscribe | contact us

Copyright © 2021 PEN America | 588 Broadway Suite 303, New York, NY 10012 USA