Standing up for those who speak up

Every year, hundreds of creative writers, journalists, visual artists, filmmakers, and musicians are censored, harassed, imprisoned, or killed for speaking their minds or exercising their imaginations. Since 2001, Ithaca City of Asylum has welcomed at-risk writers and artists into the Ithaca community, connecting them with opportunities and helping them and their families meet the challenges of a new environment. Learn more.

News & events

Odysseys series now available for streaming

The four-part reading series “Odysseys: Ithaca Writers on Exile, Wandering, and Searching for Home,” which ran from February to May, is now available for viewing on the Tompkins County Public Library’s YouTube channel.

Minfong Ho and Kenneth McClane to cap reading series

The online reading series “Odysseys: Ithaca Writers on Exile, Wandering, and Searching for Home” wraps up on Tuesday, May 18 at 7 p.m. with young adult and children’s book author Minfong Ho and poet and essayist Kenneth A. McClane. Novelist and ICOA board member Edward Hower will moderate.

What is ICOA?

ICOA provides refuge in Ithaca, New York, for writers and artists whose works are suppressed, whose lives are threatened, whose cultures are vanishing, and whose languages are endangered. We also advocate for human rights and freedom of expression. ICOA is part of the International Cities of Refuge Network (ICORN).

How can I help?

ICOA is an all-volunteer project of the Center for Transformative Action, a 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible. Give online at GiveGab or send a check with ICOA on the memo line to Center for Transformative Action, P.O. Box 760, Ithaca, NY 14851.

Friends

Artist Protection Fund
Artistic Freedom Initiative
Black Mountain Institute
Buffalo Street Books
Center for Transformative Action
City of Asylum Detroit
City of Asylum Pittsburgh
Cornell University
Human Rights in China
International Cities of Refuge Network
Ithaca College
Ithaca Welcomes Refugees
PEN America
Scholars at Risk