"Freedom of Expression: PEN America Gala Celebrates Writers and Activists"
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"Freedom of Expression: PEN America Gala Celebrates Writers and Activists"
[!CDATA[PEN America is hosting its annual gala, where writers, editors, and publishers will come together for a night of celebration. The event will be hosted by writer-comedian Amber Ruffin and will feature a tribute to actor-publisher Sarah Jessica Parker. Ruffin, known for her outspoken criticism of President Donald Trump, was invited to host the gala after being disinvited from the White House Correspondents Association dinner earlier in the year. The event will take place at the American Museum of Natural History. The organization, PEN America, has faced challenges in recent years, including allegations of reluctance to criticize Israel's actions in Gaza and slow response to the suffering of Palestinians. This led to many writers withdrawing from PEN's events in 2024, resulting in the cancellation of the spring awards ceremony and World Voices festival. Despite these setbacks, the awards night and festival have returned this year, with a focus on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Some prize nominees withdrew from competition, and the Jean Stein Book Award finalists decided to donate the prize money to organizations supporting Palestinian causes. At the gala, PEN will honor Egyptian poet and activist Galal El-Behairy with the PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award, recognizing his courage in the face of imprisonment. Sarah Jessica Parker will receive the PEN/Audible Literary Service Award for her contributions to literature and literacy through her publishing imprint, SJP Lit. Wesleyan President Michael S. Roth will be awarded the PEN/Benenson Courage Award for his advocacy against threats to research funding, and Macmillan CEO Jon Yaged will receive the Business Visionary award. In conclusion, the PEN America gala is a gathering of literary figures to celebrate the power of free expression and honor individuals who have shown courage and dedication to the written word. The event highlights the importance of standing up for freedom of speech and supporting writers and activists who face challenges in their pursuit of creative expression.]]