PEN America is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that defends free expression, supports writers and journalists, promotes literary culture, documents and publicizes threats to speech and press freedom, and provides direct assistance and advocacy for persecuted writers and journalists.
Advocates for free expression and anti-censorship measures, opposes book bans and restrictions in schools and libraries, promotes press freedom and safety for journalists, defends writers' rights and translation, and engages on related civil liberties and cultural policy issues.
Primarily supported by foundation grants, individual donations and membership dues, event and awards revenue, and philanthropic contributions.
PEN International and PEN centers worldwide; frequent partners in advocacy and research include Human Rights Watch, Committee to Protect Journalists, and Freedom House; engages numerous high-profile authors and journalists in its programs and campaigns (e.g., Margaret Atwood, Salman Rushdie).
Non-profit organization (national nonprofit with affiliated advocacy entities)