PEN Canada: The Canadian Centre of International PEN

PEN Canada, also known as Le Centre Canadien de PEN International, is a nonprofit organization based in Toronto, Ontario. It is one of the 148 centres of PEN International, a global network of writers dedicated to promoting freedom of expression and literature.

History and Mission

PEN Canada was founded in 1926 with a mission to defend freedom of expression as a basic human right, both domestically and internationally. The organization is nonpartisan, open to all qualified writers, editors, and translators regardless of nationality, ethnic origin, language, color, or religion[1][5]. Its vision is a world where writers are free to write, readers are free to read, and freedom of expression prevails[5].

Activities and Programs

• Advocacy for Persecuted Writers: PEN Canada campaigns for writers who are persecuted, imprisoned, or exiled for their work, assisting those seeking refuge in Canada[1][4].
• Promotion of Literature: The organization hosts various literary events to celebrate writers and stimulate dialogue about literature[4].
• Education and Awareness: PEN Canada educates Canadian students about the importance of freedom of expression through visits by writers in exile to schools[4].
• Censorship and Legal Interventions: It fights censorship and intervenes in legal cases to defend journalistic integrity and artistic freedom[4].
• Freedom to Read Week: In partnership with the Toronto Public Library, PEN Canada organizes Freedom to Read Week to emphasize the role of free speech in democratic societies[4].
• New Voices Award: PEN Canada offers the RBC PEN Canada New Voices Award to encourage unpublished writers aged 17 and over[3].

Structure and Membership

PEN Canada has a membership of over 1,000 writers and supporters. The organization participates in broader PEN International activities, adhering to the principles of unhampered transmission of thought and opposing suppression of freedom of expression worldwide[1][5].

Business Registration

PEN Canada is registered as a nonprofit organization with a business registration number of 889162541RR0001.

References

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