The Right to Write: Foundation Conference of PEN Israel
Mishkenot Sha'ananim is delighted to host the foundation conference of the aspiring PEN center in Israel
PEN is a worldwide association of writers and individuals who are professionally engaged in literature. The organization affirms the principle that literature knows no frontiers and must be available to the entire public, even in times of war and political upheaval. PEN stands for the principle of the free exchange of ideas within nations and between all nations, and its members pledge to oppose any form of suppression of freedom of expression. PEN supports freedom of the press and opposes arbitrary censorship in times of peace (more about the PEN Charter here) . PEN has centers in more than 127 countries worldwide, and in every country, the organization’s members take action as they see fit and according to the needs of the society in which they live. In these turbulent times, as our society experiences intense upheaval, the need for the literary world to unite is stronger than ever. We require solidarity, reinforced ties, protection of the freedom to write and read – and to bolster our social and cultural power as writers!
Come and be part of the foundation of aspiring PEN Israel. This is an opportunity for each and every one of us to make an impact and to join the activities we will conduct as a group. Senior PEN International officers will also participate in the conference: Suzanne Nossel (PEN America CEO) and Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Jennifer Egan (former president of PEN America), Olga Tokarczuk, author and Nobel prize laureate will deliver opening remarks.
The conference is not open to the general public, but anyone involved in the literary field (novelists, poets, editors, translators, publishers, critics, journalists, playwrights, bloggers and others) is invited! Come and be part of the foundation of PEN Israel. This is an opportunity for each and every one of us to make an impact and to participate in our activities as a group.
In collaboration with the U.S. Embassy & The American Center International