J.K. Rowling Accepts 2016 PEN/Allen Literary Service Award

Last night, J.K. Rowling attended the PEN/Allen Gala in New York City and received their 2016 Literary Service Award.

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As we reported back in February, J.K. Rowling was announced as this year’s recipient of the PEN/Allen Literary Service award. The PEN organization is one dedicated to ensuring writers, especially those who have political leanings, are allowed to practice their craft without fear. Rowling was chosen as this year’s recipient for the Harry Potter series and how they teach children to take a moral stand against oppression, as personified by Lord Voldemort.

Yesterday, those who follow Rowling on Twitter may have noted that she tweeted she was in New York City. And though some might have thought she had a date to meet with the Wizarding President of America at the MACUSA, it was actually to attend the gala that evening at the  American Museum of Natural History, where she was introduced by actress Sarah Jessica Parker.

It really is a lovely view.

Pen/America has made the video of the entire ceremony available on YouTube for those who would like the see Rowling’s speech. The full event was two hours and twenty minutes. Parker ‘s intro begins at the 1:40 mark, Rowling’s acceptance speech directly follows at the 1:48 mark.

Some choice quotes from her speech:

"“Protected as I am by citizenship of a liberal nation where freedom of expression is a fundamental right, my critics are at liberty to say I am trying to convert children to satanism, and I am free to explain that I am exploring human nature and morality. Or to say you’re an idiot.”"

and:

“Oh my brother human, if I disagree with you in thoughts,principals, or beliefs, does this deny the fact that we are both human? All you and I have to do is respect each other. Tolerate the views of your opponents coolly and patiently. While listening to them, do not think to respond before listening to all opposing opinions.”

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Rowling also brought up Donald Trump, the GOP candidate who she has compared to Voldemort before.

"“Now, I find almost everything that Mr. Trump says objectionable. I consider him offensive and bigoted, but he has my full support to come to my country and be offensive and bigoted there. His freedom to speak protects my freedom to call him a bigot. His freedom guarantees mine.”“If my offended feelings can justify a travel ban on Donald Trump, I have no moral grounds to argue that those offended by feminism or the fight for transgender rights or universal suffrage, should not oppress campaigners for those causes. If you seek the removal of freedoms from an opponent simply on the ground that they have offended you, you have crossed a line to stand alongside tyrants who imprison, torture, and kill on exactly the same justification.”"

Deep food for thought. let us hope that Donald trump is not so stupid as to go after her now for what basically is her defending him.