# PEN Gala Raises Funds for Free Expression, Honors Imprisoned Writers

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/durham-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7569659/pen-gala-raises-funds-for-free-expression-honors-imprisoned-writers
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/durham-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7569659/pen-gala-raises-funds-for-free-expression-honors-imprisoned-writers.md
Podcast: [Durham News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!](https://stenobird.com/podcast/durham-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7569659)
Published: 2026-05-15T04:46:22+00:00
Episode link: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/ba8dccbd-6ecc-4a29-ad24-fb3b0ad39234.mp3
Audio file: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/ba8dccbd-6ecc-4a29-ad24-fb3b0ad39234.mp3
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Duration seconds: 94

## Resource

PEN Americas annual gala, held at the American Museum of Natural History, raised over two million dollars for free expression causes. Author Ann Patchett and film producer Jason Blum were honored for their contributions. The event highlighted threats to writers, including book bans in schools and libraries. Patchett emphasized the power of storytelling, while Blum drew parallels between criticism of horror films and novels from the past. The gala also honored imprisoned Iranian writers and local activists fighting book bans. PEN leaders called for a global push against censorship, with notable hosts like Amy Tan and B.J. Novak. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/2d529778460b3abf

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## Transcript

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