PEN America President Resignation Highlights Ongoing Controversy

The president of PEN America resigned following another controversy involving Israel. The resignation occurred on July 27, 2026, at 6:30 a.m. EDT.

Dinaw Mengestu, the former president of PEN America, was seen at the organization’s spring gala held in the American Museum of Natural History in New York on May 14. This event was part of Mengestu’s responsibilities during his tenure.

PEN America is an established organization known for its literary efforts and commitment to human rights. According to the group’s website, it aims to uphold free expression both in the United States and globally. Recently, however, the organization has been more frequently involved in internal political disputes and has faced negative media coverage.