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Day of the Imprisoned Writer

On Day of the Imprisoned Writer, let's honor those who risk their freedom to speak out and share their stories with the world.

Sunday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 15

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

November 15 marks a significant day for writers all around the world as we celebrate Day of the Imprisoned Writer. This day was established by PEN International in 1981 to raise awareness about the importance of free speech and the dangers faced by writers who speak out against injustice, oppression, and censorship. It's a day to honor those brave individuals who have been imprisoned, threatened, or even killed for their words and ideas. But it's also a reminder to cherish our own freedom of expression and continue fighting for it. So let's take a moment to appreciate the power of words and stand in solidarity with writers who face persecution for exercising their right to speak their minds.

TIMELINE

Day of the Imprisoned Writer Timeline

Establishment of the Day

PEN International establishes Day of the Imprisoned Writer to honor writers who have been persecuted for their free speech rights.

Raising Global Awareness

On this day, the organization begins to host events worldwide to draw attention to specific persecuted and imprisoned authors, raising awareness around the globe.

Solidarity Through Letter Writing

PEN International begins a tradition of encouraging supporters to send letters to selected incarcerated authors, showing solidarity and fostering hope.

Online Advocacy

With the advent of social media, campaigns around the Day of the Imprisoned Writer move online, expanding its reach and influence.

Continued Activism and Support

This day continues to rally support for persecuted writers, shining a spotlight on current cases, defending the freedom to write, and promoting literature as a fundamental right.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Day of the Imprisoned Writer

Write a letter to an imprisoned writer

Use the power of words to show your support and solidarity with an imprisoned writer by writing them a letter. Let them know that their voice matters and that they are not alone.

READ

Read a book written by an imprisoned writer

Educate yourself about the struggles and sacrifices of imprisoned writers by reading a book written by one. This is a great way to honor their work and support their cause.

ATTEND

Attend a protest or rally

Join others in raising awareness about the issue of imprisoned writers by attending a protest or rally. This is a powerful way to show your support and demand for their release.

HOST

Host a book club discussion

Gather a group of friends and discuss a book written by an imprisoned writer. This is a great way to spread awareness and have meaningful conversations about the importance of freedom of expression.

SUPPORT

Support organizations that help imprisoned writers

Donate to or volunteer at organizations that work towards protecting the rights and well-being of imprisoned writers. Your support can make a difference in their lives.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Day of the Imprisoned Writer is Important

It encourages solidarity with writers around the world

This day brings together individuals, organizations and governments to show support and solidarity for persecuted writers. It reminds us that defending free speech is a global issue and encourages us to take action in our own communities to protect the rights of writers.

It raises awareness for persecuted writers

Day of the Imprisoned Writer shines a light on the injustice faced by writers who are imprisoned, threatened or killed for expressing their views. This event brings attention to the importance of freedom of speech and the need to protect those who exercise it.

It honors the bravery of persecuted writers

The Day of the Imprisoned Writer also serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice shown by writers who continue to write despite facing intimidation, harassment and imprisonment. This day honors their bravery and highlights their important role in society.

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