PEN Canada defends freedom of expression, aids writers in peril, and celebrates the power of the written word.
PEN Canada defends freedom of expression, aids writers in peril, and celebrates the power of the written word.
Defend Expression
our work on issues at home and abroad:
More than ever, Free Expression Matters, a message from the PEN Canada president
April 22, 2025
These times call for us to strenuously assert our belief that free expression matters.
Book challenges in Canada: a Q&A with James L. Turk for Freedom to Read Week
February 24, 2025
Book challenges are on the rise around the globe, even in Canada.
After Assad: five Syrian and Arab writers on what’s next
December 18, 2024
Abdulrahman Matar, Jamal Saeed, Basima Tkrory and more on what they hope for Syria.
Photo of María provided by the family.
Every year, PEN Canada adds a threatened writer or journalist to its roster of Honorary Members, and takes up yearlong advocacy for their case. María, imprisoned in Cuba, is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence.
From the Archives: What I Have Learned from Exiled Journalists
August 22, 2025
Anneli Andre-Barrett is a senior volunteer for the PEN Canada Writers in Exile community.
In Loving Memory of Joan, a Woman Who Wrote with Her Life, Not Just Words.
August 13, 2025
Joan was a quiet revolution — the kind that doesn’t shout but transforms. Her compassion knew no borders.
From memory to manuscript, Writers in Exile tackle personal stories during workshop
July 8, 2025
A workshop for those living in exile who are writing their next chapter.
Read the poetry and stories of the 2025 New Voices Award cohort
August 20, 2025
Excerpts from the winners and finalists, plus praise from the jury of Canadian authors.
A conversation with Ira Wells, president of PEN Canada
July 3, 2025
Wells on why he joined PEN and the challenges facing free expression today.
News and books from previous New Voices Award winners
May 9, 2025
Titles from Christine Wu, Deepa Rajagopalan, Noor Naga and more.
Events
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