PEN AMERICA

"Defending free expression,
supporting writers,
and fostering civic dialogue."

What they do:
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights, defending free expression in the U.S. and globally. Through advocacy, direct support, and storytelling, they protect the rights of writers, artists, and thinkers whose voices are under threat and build public will to safeguard open discourse as essential to democracy.

Why it matters:
PEN America works across lines of difference to protect our shared civic space. At a time when education, libraries, and public platforms are increasingly politicized, they provide critical tools to resist censorship, protect artistic freedom, and affirm that a healthy democracy requires a diversity of stories and storytellers. Their work supports radical belonging by ensuring marginalized voices are not erased or silenced.

How it connects:
PEN America’s work aligns with Change Lab's mission by:

• Strengthening civic infrastructure through narrative freedom

• Protecting storytellers and educators targeted by censorship

• Elevating cultural strategies for democracy and inclusion

• Offering actionable pathways for advocacy, including against book bans and educational gag orders

Opportunities to engage:

• Partner on campaigns to resist censorship and defend libraries

• Co-host workshops or forums on narrative justice and civic storytelling

• Amplify research from PEN’s Freedom to Write Index and Banned Book reports

• Collaborate on curriculum or community events that engage educators and young writers

Learn more: pen.org