Black Pen Recruitment

Program Assistant

• Support research by identifying, inputting, and tracking book bans in K-12 public schools and public libraries
• Maintain PEN America’s comprehensive database of book bans and detailed spreadsheets
• Complete data memos
• Validate censorship cases through school board minutes, hearings, district, department, and government agency websites, public records requests, and other primary sources
• Grow and maintain a nationwide network of public records request partners
• Organize trainings, develop and update education resources, and share best practices
• Track breaking news and compile key stories for the Freedom to Read team
• Manage, track, and triage submissions to PEN America’s Book Ban Report Tool
• Coordinate expenses, manage calendars, schedule meetings and press availabilities, maintain records, and track expenses
• Respond to internal data requests for social media, newsletters, and other public communications
• Review communications for accuracy
• Prepare slide decks, one-pagers, brochures, and up-to-date fact sheets
• Serve as a thought partner on research processes and products
• Support internal and external coordination across teams and projects
• Support PEN America’s mission to safeguard free expression in the United States and abroad
• Participate in committees, task forces, strategy projects, training, and other organizational initiatives as assigned

Explore Program Assistant – Freedom to Read at Black Pen Recruitment. Review requirements and application details.

Open roles

Program Assistant – Freedom to Read