Poetry for freedom: PEN scholarship holders in Leipzig!

Poetry for freedom: PEN scholarship holders in Leipzig!

On June 24, 2025, the Leipzig University Library will host a special event: scholarship holders from the German PEN’s “Writers in Exile” program will be guests. For over 25 years, this program has provided protection and a temporary home for persecuted writers and authors. The event will take place on July 2nd at 2:30 p.m. in the lecture hall of the Albertina, Beethovenstrasse 6, in Leipzig and will be moderated by Kathrin Aehnlich. The thematic focus is on literature and the power of poetry, and the event is open to all visitors.

The scholarship holders who will speak at this event are Dr. Behnaz Amani from Iran and Ariel Maceo Tellez from Cuba. Dr. Amani, a committed poet and literary scholar, was an active voice during the Women, Life, Freedom movement. Her arrest and subsequent release on bail due to serious illness reflect the dangers faced by many writers. She has been a scholarship holder of the program since February 2024. Ariel Maceo Tellez, a talented poet and journalist, was forced to leave Cuba in dramatic circumstances after being the target of persecution over one of his poems. He has also found a home in the Writers in Exile program since living in Germany in 2024.

The importance of the program

Nuremberg is an official partner of the “Writers in Exile” program and, through its commitment, is expressly committed to protecting authors at risk. Nuremberg reports that The history of the city during the National Socialist tyranny brings with it a special responsibility towards persecuted writers. Prominent writers like Hermann Kesten helped former persecuted intellectuals and thus set standards for today's commitment.

The Writers in Exile program provides security and a new perspective for numerous writers, including Sabal Phyu Nu from Myanmar and Nazli Karabiyikoglu from Turkey. Both have experienced extreme challenges in their home countries as they have fought for human rights and against repression. Their stories are a powerful testimony to the value of literature and the pursuit of freedom.

A look into the future

The Writers in Exile program remains an important point of contact for persecuted authors and writers seeking refuge in Germany. It not only supports artistic production, but also the exchange about important social issues. This initiative raises awareness of the challenges faced by writers in repressive regimes and provides them with a platform to raise their voices.

The event in Leipzig creates a connection between literature and the current situation of persecuted authors. It is encouraged to consider cultural heritage and the past in the context of the modern challenges facing writers around the world today.