Karen Walton

The private company is based in Toronto, Canada. PEN Canada is a nonpartisan charitable organization dedicated to defending freedom of expression and supporting writers facing persecution, imprisonment, or exile worldwide. It advocates for human rights by fighting censorship, aiding persecuted and exiled writers, and promoting literature as a means to foster understanding and bridge cultures. PEN Canada offers programs including awards, scholarships, residencies, workshops, and advocacy campaigns. The organization hosts events featuring authors, publishes anthologies and reports, and maintains communication through blogs and newsletters to engage the public. It emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and community involvement, providing support and a network for exiled writers to rebuild their lives and continue their work, while highlighting free speech issues and honoring those who defend freedom of expression. PEN Canada was founded in 1926.