Norman Mailer discusses the Woman’s Committee and slating of the Executive Board.  General dispersion and conversation about slates for voting.  A number of trustees speak, most not identified in record. Norman Mailer’s intense often times acerbic farewell speech addressing gender and equality issues personal to PEN America.

PEN Annual Meeting, 6/3/1986

Amiri Baraka reads “Rhythm Travel” at the 2008 Beyond Margins Celebration.


Amiri Baraka Reads “Rhythm Travel”

The celebrated poet reads the seminal letter of political protest, in which she became the first and only person to date to refuse the highest honor bestowed upon an artist on behalf of the people. Background and discussion: http://www.brainpickings.org/index.php/2013/05/16/adrienne-rich-national-medal-of-arts-letter/

Adrienne Rich declines the National Medal of Arts, 1997

PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect open expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world.  Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible.


PEN Annual Meeting, 6/3/1986

PEN America

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