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Hello,

2019 was a challenging year for free expression, and for writers across the world. I want to thank you for working with us to create the possibility of hope, solidarity and celebration throughout the year. Through your support, your letters and your donations — you helped to protect the written word and those who dare to speak up for a fairer world.

In this challenging political landscape, English PEN will continue to campaign for the rights of writers across the UK and internationally in 2020. One of the many highlights this year was the poet and author Lemn Sissay sharing the PEN Pinter Prize with Ethiopian writer and activist Befeqadu Hailu. Watch Lemn's incredible acceptance speech below.

Our members are at the heart of everything we do, so why not give someone the gift of becoming an English PEN member this Christmas? From £50 a year, it’s the perfect gift for the writers, readers and activists in your life.

GIVE THE GIFT OF PEN MEMBERSHIP

Once again, thank you for everything you do to champion freedom of expression. Wishing you a very happy new year - see you in 2020!

All the best,

Daniel and the English PEN team
(Cat, Hannah, Will, Marion, Deborah and Rachel)

FROM OUR FRIENDS AT THE ROYAL LITERARY FUND...

Sometimes bad things happen to good writers.

Woman typing on laptop If you are a professionally published writer with financial difficulties, we could help.

Established by writers for writers, the Royal Literary Fund could offer you financial support during hard times. Writing may be a solitary process, but you are not alone.

Whether money or personal problems are preventing you from writing, our panel of experts will review your published works (a minimum of two), to assess if we can offer financial support.

Visit www.rlf.org.uk to find out if you’re eligible today.