In an era marked by exclusionary policies and nationalist rhetoric, the role of writers, artists, reporters, and activists in providing accountability and truth has never been more vital. What are the lessons learned from writers and journalists who have effectively resisted oppressive regimes? How can PEN International’s history teach us about the various strategies to meet the current moment in the U.S. and abroad?
Burhan Sönmez, novelist and President of PEN International, former PEN America President Francine Prose, novelist Gary Shteyngart, historian and scholar on authoritarianism and fascism, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, and philosopher & professor Jason Stanley will address the rise of authoritarianism and fascism, and explore how creative storytelling can safeguard our democratic values. This conversation will be moderated by Jonathan Friedman, the Sy Syms managing director of U.S. free expression programs at PEN America. The speakers will discuss the role of writers and journalists in documenting our times, shaping the narratives that inform public discourse, and inspiring collective resistance.
