This event honors three Filipino poets, José Sison, Mila Aguilar, Jose Lacaba, whose work is read by American poets and writers. Some of the reading occurs in Tagalog. It begins with a discussion by Ninotchka Rosca of the repression of the Marcos regime and its particular actions against writers, and the US support of Marcos. Rosca then introduces each reading with reminiscences and biographical information about the poets. The event ends with the singing of a protest poem set to music, in Tagalog. This event is part of the Silenced Voices series. Quincy Troupe moderates.

Silenced Voices, 4/15/1985

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.


Silenced Voices, 4/15/1985

PEN America

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