PEN America Cancels Literary Awards Amid Widespread Author Withdrawals Over Gaza

The cancellation follows a significant protest by authors against PEN America's perceived inadequate response to the Gaza conflict, leading to the withdrawal of numerous nominees.

Over two dozen authors withdrew from the PEN America Literary Awards, citing the organization's failure to adequately address the Gaza conflict.
The prestigious $75,000 Jean Stein Book Award will be donated to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, following the withdrawals.
PEN America expressed regret that the controversy overshadowed the recognition of authors' works.
Critics accuse PEN America of showing implicit support for Zionism and failing to call the situation in Gaza a genocide.
The organization plans to review its actions and policies over the past decade in response to the backlash.