Several authors have declined awards and nominations from PEN America due to the organization's stance on the war in Gaza. The long lists for various categories were announced, with authors like Camonghne Felix, Eugenia Leigh, and Ghassan Zeineddine withdrawing their names in protest.
Camonghne Felix, author of the memoir “Dyscalculia,” expressed solidarity with the protest against PEN's stance on the war. Nine out of 60 nominated authors have requested to be removed from consideration.
PEN has faced criticism for not fully condemning the conflict in Gaza, with writers accusing the organization of failing to support Palestinians. An open letter signed by prominent figures like Naomi Klein and Lorrie Moore highlighted PEN's alleged inaction in supporting Palestinian writers.
In response, PEN noted its efforts to call for a ceasefire and mourn the destruction in Gaza. The organization set up an emergency fund for Palestinian writers and emphasized its commitment to freedom of expression.
Despite the controversy, PEN continues to attract high-profile guests. Playwright-screenwriter Tony Kushner was announced as the winner of the PEN/Mike Nichols Writing for Performance Award. Kushner, known for his criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, will be honored at the upcoming event.
The tensions over the Gaza war have extended to the arts community, with debates over dehumanization and moral equivalence. While some authors have chosen to boycott PEN events, others like Aaliyah Bilal, a PEN/Jean Stein finalist, plan to attend the ceremony.
As the literary world grapples with these complex issues, PEN America remains committed to its mission of promoting and protecting writers amidst turbulent times.
