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PEN Melbourne

@penmelbourne.bsky.social
91 followers 12 following 61 posts

PEN Melbourne is an affiliate of PEN International, bringing writers together to share experiences and ideas about how literature transforms, influences and fosters cross-cultural exchange. Join us as we advocate for the writer's freedom of speech.

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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Join poets Srijato Bandopadhaya, Robert Wood and Yirga Gelaw Woldeye for The Costs of Bearing Witness. As they discuss their different linguistic, social and political backgrounds, their work andthe risks they face in pushing the limits set by political and market forces. @penperth.bsky.social
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
PEN Melbourne is delighted to introduce our new President, Cheng Lei. Cheng Lei brings to PEN Melbourne her exceptional experiences and her inspirational journey that’s led her here. Welcome to PEN Melbourne, Cheng Lei 👏
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
We stand with PEN International and PEN Malta in urging the Maltese authorities to hold those accountable for the killing of Daphne Caruana Galizia. Read the full story via the link below.
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 07/08/2026
#Belarus: Six years after the fraudulent presidential election, we stand with Belarusian cultural figures creating with courage—at home and in exile. Read our joint statement with @penbelarus.bsky.social ⬇️ www.pen-international.org/news/belarus...
pen-international.org
Belarus: Cultural crackdown and resilience six years on — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
‘We stand with the fearless Belarusian cultural figures who continue to create in the most challenging circumstances – both at home and in exile. On this fateful day, we reiterate calls on the interna...
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 26/06/2026
#Poland: The new Anti-SLAPP Act is a major win against legal harassment of journalists & writers. As we celebrate, we also call for these positive changes to inspire broader reforms, starting with the repeal of criminal defamation. Read more ⬇️ www.pen-international.org/news/poland-...
pen-international.org
Poland: Anti-SLAPP Act is welcome improvement for writers   — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
‘For years, SLAPPs have emotionally and financially burdened Poland’s writers and journalists. As we celebrate the passing of the Anti-SLAPP Act, we call for these positive changes to inspire broader ...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 30/04/2026
Join us for this event at 1230pm on Saturday 9th May at The Wheeler Centre. Secure your tickets via the link below! mwf.com.au/program/tare...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/voices-fre...
eventbrite.co.uk
Voices freed: International Solidarity in a Time of Global Disorder
PEN International Case List 2026 launch
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 22/04/2026
Moderated by Peter Greste, joined by Hany Babu, Mahmoud Muna, and Taciana Niadbaj. Voices Freed: International Solidarity in a Time of Global Disorder (23 April 2026, 13:00–14:30 UK) explore their own lived experiences and discuss the important of global solidarity. Book your free ticket below:
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 19/02/2026
Join us in conversation with Travis Lovett as he reflects on his ongoing work for systemic reform and the urgency of national truth-telling ahead of his April 2026 National Walk for Truth, calling for a national truth-telling process developed in genuine partnership with First Nations peoples.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 18/03/2026
Join us in Melbourne/ Naarm at the bottom steps of the State Library of Victoria at 5pm on Friday 20th March for a worldwide reading marking Nowruz — Persian New Year. All are welcome.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 19/02/2026
All funds raised will go to support the National Walk for Truth 🎟️ Secure your tickets now via the link below. www.eventbrite.com.au/e/in-convers...
eventbrite.com.au
In Conversation with Travis Lovett - National Walk for Truth
Join Travis Lovett in conversation with PEN Melbourne on national truth-telling and the Walk for Truth.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 19/02/2026
Join us in conversation with Travis Lovett as he reflects on his ongoing work for systemic reform and the urgency of national truth-telling ahead of his April 2026 National Walk for Truth, calling for a national truth-telling process developed in genuine partnership with First Nations peoples.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 03/02/2026
Tickets are free, though bookings are essential due to limited capacity. Secure your spot now via www.readings.com.au/events/keep-...
readings.com.au
PEN Melbourne: Keep Words Free
PEN Melbourne has published three pamphlets written by Plestia Alaqad (But Who Reports on the Reporters?), André Dao (The  Role of the Committed Writer in an Unfree World) and Jeanine Leane (Occupied:...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 03/02/2026
At a time when writers, artists and advocates in Australia and around the world are being silenced for speaking out against oppression, PEN Melbourne is committed to the guiding principle that literature knows no frontiers.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
PEN Melbourne stands with PEN America in calling on the Iranian government to immediately release Ali Asadollahi and for an end to state repression, which is inclusive of such against writers, journalists, and human rights defenders.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 18/01/2026
penmelbourne.org/truth-withou...
penmelbourne.org
Truth without justice is unfinished - Travis Lovett calls for national Truth Telling - PEN Melbourne
PEN Melbourne has made the commitment to wholly support Travis Lovett’s call for national Truth Telling. Lovett is Kerrupmara Gunditjmara.  He is the
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 18/01/2026
This year, Travis Lovett will lead a National Walk for Truth from the Victorian Parliament on Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Country to Parliament House in Canberra on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country throughout April and May. To learn more, follow the link below.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 14/01/2026
Writers and creatives in Australia are experiencing troublesome times. These writers, poets and artists are indispensable to the rich and diverse cultural, civic, and creative fabric of Australia. PEN Melbourne stands with them and supports the freedom of creative expression.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
We stand with PEN International in strongly condemning the arbitrary, violent arrest and detention of writer, human rights defender, and Nobel Peace laureate Narges Mohammadi on 12 December and calls for her immediate and unconditional release.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12...
abc.net.au
Victorian government makes historic apology to Aboriginal people
The Victorian government has made a historic apology to Aboriginal Victorians, in one of the first public acts to follow the signing of the state's treaty agreement.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
💌 PEN Melbourne invites you to our AGM to write cards to imprisoned writers, sharing messages of support to remind them that they’re not alone. We welcome new members to the Committee and answer questions that may arise during this time. We look forward to seeing you then 💌
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 25/11/2025
SIGN OUR PETITION: Uyghur writer #YalqunRozi has spent 9 years behind bars in China for expressing his cultural identity. Sentenced to 15 years, his only “crime” was helping preserve the Uyghur language. You can set him free. #DayoftheImprisonedWriter
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 21/11/2025
TAKE ACTION: Venezuelan journalist #RoryBranker has been arbitrarily detained— silenced for seeking truth. His voice must be heard again. This #DayoftheImprisonedWriter, join us in calling for his immediate release. Sign our petition: www.pen-international.org/rory-branker...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 21/11/2025
Writers around the world are raising their voices for Day of the Imprisoned Writer. Together, we defend the right to write freely through amplifying the voices of those silenced. #DayoftheImprisonedWriter #RoryBranker #YalqunRozi #MohamedTadjadit #MziaAmaglobeli
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 10/11/2025
"Ekinci is guilty of nothing but daring to be a writer in today’s #Türkiye.” We welcome the dismissal of the case against @yavuzekinci.bsky.social and urge the authorities to uphold the freedom to create for all. www.pen-international.org/news/trkiye-....
pen-international.org
Türkiye: Writer Yavuz Ekinci on trial again as spurious terror-propaganda case resumes — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
‘That Kurdish writer Yavuz Ekinci finds himself in court again for his writings after the case against him was dismissed exposes the authorities of Türkiye’s pernicious pursuit of those who dare explo...
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
REPORT: PEN International launches Critical Junctures: Safeguarding the Freedom to Create in Poland, revealing how artistic freedoms have been curtailed, and celebrating the courage of those defending independent voices. Read more: www.pen-international.org/news/critica... #CriticalJunctures
pen-international.org
Critical Junctures: PEN International’s report exposes threats to artistic expression in Poland  — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
“Critical Junctures is a vital record of the pressures facing Poland’s writers, journalists, and cultural actors over the past decade while identifying catalysts for change. It shows not only how free...
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 03/10/2025
A verdict is expected on 6 October in the preposterous case against Yavuz Ekinci. He faces years in prison on terror propaganda grounds for his book Rüyası Bölünenler (Dream Divided). We urge #Türkiye to drop all charges and to uphold the freedom to create. www.pen-international.org/news/trkiye-...
pen-international.org
Türkiye: Writer Yavuz Ekinci on trial again as spurious terror-propaganda case resumes — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
‘That Kurdish writer Yavuz Ekinci finds himself in court again for his writings after the case against him was dismissed exposes the authorities of Türkiye’s pernicious pursuit of those who dare explo...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 28/09/2025
penmelbourne.org/we-will-not-...
penmelbourne.org
We Will Not Be Silenced Event at Wheeler Centre - PEN Melbourne
An esteemed panel of experts come together to discuss why we must fight to protect freedom of expression in the face of increasing attempts to censor and
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 28/09/2025
Join us at The Wheeler Centre for this panel featuring Mary Kostakidis, Micaela Sahhar and Sarah Schwartz where they’ll highlight the imperative need to protect writers and journalists’ freedom of speech, dissent and open political discourse. 🔗 Tickets are available now via the link below.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 28/09/2025
penmelbourne.org/we-will-not-...
penmelbourne.org
We Will Not Be Silenced Event at Wheeler Centre - PEN Melbourne
An esteemed panel of experts come together to discuss why we must fight to protect freedom of expression in the face of increasing attempts to censor and
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 24/09/2025
Alaa Abd El Fattah has not been defeated! The British-Egyptian writer and activist has been reunited with family after he was pardoned by Egyptian President, Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi. PEN Melbourne honour the families resistance and tenacity in achieving Alaa's release. www.bbc.com/news/article...
bbc.com
Alaa Abdel Fattah: British-Egyptian activist released from prison
Alaa Abdel Fattah, who was imprisoned in Egypt for six years, is reunited with his family in Cairo after being pardoned.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 12/09/2025
We stand with @peninternational and their resolutions to defend free expression, gender diversity, human rights, and climate justice. Full statement available via the link in their bio 🔗
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 21/08/2025
informationrights.org/take-action/...
informationrights.org
Stand with Mary Kostakidis | The Information Rights Project
The Information Rights Project protects freedom of communication and access to information.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 21/08/2025
🚨 An Open Letter in Defence of Free Expression and the Right to Share Information 🚨 Join us as we stand with Mary Kostakidis to fight these allegations which our democracy depends on for free and open discussions. 🔗 Follow the link below to show your support 🔗
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 18/08/2025
emergingwritersfestival.org.au/event/writin...
emergingwritersfestival.org.au
Writing Against Silencing: PEN Melbourne Workshop - Emerging Writers' Festival
By inviting workshop participants to write against the attempted silencing of emerging writers, we will consider what it means to create in danger, under censorship, and the importance of free creativ...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 18/08/2025
Writing Against Silencing: PEN Melbourne Workshop Explore the tensions between creative expression and censorship in the Asia-Pacific region during this online event with author Sreedhevi Iyer on 17/08/25 between 4-7pm.
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 08/08/2025
#Belarus: Five years after the fraudulent 2020 elections, the crackdown on writers and cultural figures continues with impunity. PEN Belarus, PEN International & PEN America call for accountability and unwavering support for Belarusian culture.
pen-international.org
Belarus: Five years of relentless crackdown on cultural rights  — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
‘Belarusian culture, language and identity have come under sustained onslaught over the past five years. It is high time the international community takes a stance in support of the Belarusian…
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 22/07/2025
🤍 Free Alaa 🤍 Members of PEN Melbourne gathered outside the street level of the British Consulate in Melbourne on Monday to hold our second Vigil For Alaa. Join us on 18th of August, between 3pm and 5pm in the same place. We will be there on the third Monday of every month. #freealaa
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 13/07/2025
narges.foundation/threat-looms...
narges.foundation
Threat looms over Narges Mohammadi amid ongoing intimidation from state-affiliated actors
Woman, Life, Freedom
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 13/07/2025
🚨 The Free Narges Coalition Steering Committee has published a public statement with information following the reports which have emerged after serious threats were made to the safety and life of Narges Mohammadi 🚨 Follow the link below to learn more. #NargesMohammadi
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
🔗 Book your ticket now via the link below 🔗 penmelbourne.org/upcoming-eve...
penmelbourne.org
Upcoming Event: Victoria's Path to Treaty on Thursday 17 July - PEN Melbourne
Canada and New Zealand began signing treaties with their respective First Nations people centuries ago. Why is Australia so far behind? Treaty offers an
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
🖤❤️💛 Join us in partnership with The Wheeler Centre on Thursday 17th July, 630pm, for this live conversation at The Wheeler Centre 💛❤️🖤 Hosted by Bridget Brennan with Ngarra Murray, this event will explore Treaty in Victoria, while asking where we stand following the outcome of The Voice Referendum.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 07/07/2025
www.pen-international.org/news/trkiye-...
pen-international.org
Türkiye: Arrest warrant issued against journalist and poet Nedim Türfent condemned   — PEN International | Promoting Literature & Defending Freedom of Expression Worldwide
04 July 2025 – PEN International joins international free expression, media freedom, human rights and journalists’ organisations in expressing deep concern over reports that an arrest warrant has been...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 07/07/2025
#Türkiye: We join PEN International and others in expressing deep concern over the arrest warrant issued against journalist, poet, and Honorary PEN member, Nedim Türfent. We call for the warrant to be retracted without delay. 🔗 Follow the link in the comments to read the joint statement
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 02/07/2025
🔗 To read the full article, follow the link below: rsf.org/en/rsf-and-3... #jimmylai #reporterswithoutborders #penmelbourne #peninternational
rsf.org
RSF and 32 other organisations call on UK Prime Minister to meet son of jailed British publisher Jimmy Lai
In a joint letter coordinated by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), 33 organisations around the globe have written to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer asking him to meet Sebastien Lai, the son of Brit...
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 02/07/2025
Reporters Without Borders and 33 global organisations (including several PEN Centres, and Amnesty International) have written to the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer asking him to meet with the son of British publisher Jimmy Lai who has been arbitrarily jailed in Hong Kong since December 2020.
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PEN International @peninternational.bsky.social · 27/06/2025
#Türkiye: PEN International is deeply concerned by reports that an arrest warrant has been issued against journalist, poet, and Honorary PEN member Nedim Türfent on terror-propaganda grounds. Read more ⬇️ www.diken.com.tr/gazeteci-ned...
diken.com.tr
Gazeteci Nedim Türfent hakkında yakalama kararı - Diken
27/06/2025 - Gazeteci Nedim Türfent hakkında 'terör örgütü propagandası yapma' iddiasıyla yakalama kararı çıkarıldı.
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 30/06/2025
📢 We stand with PEN International and support their latest joint statement with the Montenegrin PEN Centre, where both centres have urged the Montenegro authorities to uphold academic freedom 📢 #peninternational #penmontenegro #academicfreedom
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 17/06/2025
Monday's June 16th Melbourne Action was aimed at building awareness of Alaa Abd el-Fattah’s case, who holds joint British and Egyptian citizenship. PEN Melbourne members took up a position outside the British consulate's office building to raise awareness of his case. #freealaa
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PEN Melbourne @penmelbourne.bsky.social · 09/06/2025
🕊️ FREE ALAA 🕊️ PEN Melbourne invites you to join a Vigil For Alaa 📍 Monday June 16, 3.30 - 5.30pm  @ The British Consulate, 90 Collins Street Melbourne/ Naarm
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