PEN America will honor Jack Petocz, the high school junior who fought against book bans and organized students across Florida to protest HB 1557 (the Parental Rights in Education, or “Don’t Say Gay,” bill) with the PEN/Benenson Freedom of Expression Courage Award at the 2022 PEN America Literary Gala. Devoted to exceptional acts of courage in the exercise of freedom of expression, the award this year is presented to the youth activist whose unflinching stance against censorship and silencing reflects his generation’s refusal of the regressive legislation burdening education throughout the country.
A Florida teen who became a prominent opponent of the state’s so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill will be honored at next month’s PEN America gala. Jack Petocz, a high school junior, will be presented the PEN/Benenson Freedom of Expression Courage Award.
NEW YORK (AP) A Florida teen who became a prominent opponent of the state's so-called “Don't Say Gay” bill will be honored at next month's PEN America gala. Jack Petocz, a high school junior, will be presented the PEN/Benenson Freedom of Expression Courage Award.