Press freedom is very important to us as we believe that the population of the world are entitled to their opinions, have the right to express themselves, and have the right to know of global issues. PEN Canada defend the right of expression as a basic human right across the world and fight for many issues involving literature and freedom of expression. We at ContactsforLess.ca support their work.

From PEN Canada’s Website

PEN Canada envisions a world where writers are free to write, readers are free to read, and freedom of expression prevails.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights – Article 19:Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.

Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms – Section 2(b)  Everyone has the…freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication.

Our Mission

PEN Canada is a nonpartisan organization of writers that works with others to defend freedom of expression as a basic human right, at home and abroad. PEN Canada promotes literature, fights censorship, helps free persecuted writers from prison, and assists writers living in exile in Canada.

VALUES

FREEDOM

We believe that without freedom of expression there is no freedom.

ACCOUNTABILITY

In defending persecuted writers and fighting censorship, we endeavor to advance civil society, human rights, and the dignity of the individual.

COOPERATION and DIVERSITY

As an association of writers, connected by a network of PEN centers worldwide, we benefit from our diversity, and from the effectiveness and influence that comes from working together.

UNDERSTANDING

We believe that literature helps bridge differences and foster understanding between people.

LEADERSHIP

We provide nonpartisan leadership in defending freedom of expression.

INTEGRITY

We strive to uphold high ethical standards in everything we do.

RECOGNITION

We recognize that our success comes from the commitment of members, employees, volunteers, funders, and other supporters.

To connect to our website, please click here.