PEN America, known for its advocacy for literary and free expression, found itself embroiled in controversy as several authors chose to decline awards and nominations due to the organization’s stance on the conflict in Gaza. The decision by authors like Felix, who penned the memoir “Dyscalculia,” to reject recognition highlighted a growing discontent with PEN’s perceived normalization and denial of the atrocities in the region.
The awards ceremony, slated for April 29 in Manhattan and to be hosted by writer-comedian Jena Friedman, faced a setback as these authors took a stand. Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf, overseeing PEN’s literary programming, acknowledged the authors’ choice and expressed a commitment to honor them through alternative means. However, the underlying issue of PEN’s response to the Gaza conflict remains a point of contention among the literary community.
Critics, including notable figures like Naomi Klein and Lorrie Moore, underscored PEN’s purported failure to unequivocally condemn the war that has ravaged Gaza and claimed the lives of numerous Palestinians, including writers, academics, and journalists. The absence of a robust show of solidarity for the Palestinian people led to questions about PEN’s commitment to its mission of promoting peace and equality.
In response, PEN highlighted its efforts in calling for a ceasefire, expressing grief over the destruction in Gaza, and establishing a $100,000 emergency fund for Palestinian writers. CEO Suzanne Nossel emphasized the organization’s empathy for the human toll of the conflict and reiterated its dedication to supporting those affected by the violence.
As PEN prepares for its upcoming events, such as the PEN literary awards and a fundraising gala, the decision of some authors to distance themselves while others like Aaliyah Bilal opt to participate underscores the complex dynamics at play. While divergent views exist within the organization and the broader literary world, the core mission of promoting and protecting writers continues to be a unifying factor.
Ultimately, the episode involving PEN America serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of literary advocacy and the challenges of navigating geopolitical conflicts within the realm of free expression. As authors make individual choices about their involvement, the dialogue around PEN’s role in addressing global crises like the Gaza conflict remains a crucial and ongoing conversation within the literary community.