PEN America Cancels Awards Ceremony Amid Controversy Over Israel-Hamas Response

In response to mounting criticism related to the Israel-Hamas war, PEN America has announced the cancellation of its annual awards ceremony. This decision comes after numerous nominees withdrew from the event, resulting in an unworkable situation for the organization.

The cancellation has notably affected the finalists, with nine out of the ten nominees for the prestigious PEN/Jean Stein Award choosing to withdraw. Subsequently, nominees in various categories, such as translation and poetry, also opted out of the ceremony.

Statement from PEN America CEO

In a statement on Monday, PEN America CEO Suzanne Nossel expressed regret over the outcome. She acknowledged the significant effort put into organizing the event, while ultimately concluding that it was not feasible to proceed with the celebration as planned.

Widespread Tensions Over War

The cancellation reflects the widespread tensions resulting from the Israel-Hamas war, which have permeated various aspects of society, including college campuses, political events, and roadways. Protesters across the country, from Illinois to California, have at times obstructed roadways in response to the conflict.

Authors affiliated with PEN have repeatedly criticized the organization for allegedly showing bias in favor of Israel and downplaying the plight of Palestinian writers and journalists. In an open letter endorsed by prominent figures such as Naomi Klein and Lorrie Moore, signers condemned PEN for not providing substantial support for Palestinians and failing to uphold its mission of promoting peace and equality.

Reevaluation of Organization's Work

PEN America President Jennifer Finney Boylan has announced the formation of a committee to review the organization's work over the past decade. The aim is to ensure alignment with the organization's mission and make recommendations for future conflicts, signaling a commitment to addressing the concerns raised by critics.

Critics have voiced dissatisfaction with the size of the relief fund offered by PEN America and highlighted the organization's delayed endorsement of a ceasefire, which came five months after the war's onset.

Given the withdrawal of nominees and the cancellation of the awards ceremony, the prize money for the PEN/Jean Stein Award will be donated to the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, as requested by the estate of Jean Stein.

Despite the cancellation, judges have selected winners for various awards, including the PEN/Hemingway award for debut novel, which will be presented to Javier Fuentes for "Countries of Origin." Playwright/screenwriter Tony Kushner will still receive the PEN/Mike Nichols Writing for Performance Award.

Several authors and awards finalists have called for the resignation of top officials at PEN America, pointing to the need for significant leadership changes and a new era for the organization.

Continuation of Other Spring Events

While the awards ceremony has been canceled, other high-profile spring events such as the "World Voices" festivals in New York and Los Angeles, as well as the gala at the American Museum of Natural History, will proceed as planned.

Former PEN presidents, including Salman Rushdie, Jennifer Egan, and Andrew Solomon, have underscored the importance of the "World Voices" festival, emphasizing the organization's role in bringing together diverse authors and thinkers during times of geopolitical tension.