Tice Family Statement on Release of U.S. Prisoners from Venezuela
WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 – Following is a statement via the National Press Club from the family of long-detained journalist Austin Tice, on the release of 10 imprisoned Americans in a prisoner swap with Venezuela.
“The news of the release of the U.S. hostages from Venezuela is uplifting and encouraging. No doubt a joyful day for their families, and we deeply share their joy.
“The negotiations with the Venezuelan government were most certainly complicated, never the less, the White House team was willing to, engage, listen and earnestly negotiate to make this happen.
“We sincerely believe the very same genuine, earnest, engagement can bring our first born son safely home. Austin has now been held 11 years, four months and eight days in Syria. And we passionately hope President Biden will follow through for Austin and our family.”
The National Press Club and the National Press Club Journalism Institute support the families of unjustly detained U.S. journalists Austin Tice, Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva, and ask the Biden administration to prioritize the protection of American journalists. Journalism is not a crime. #FreeAustinTice #BringAustinHome #IStandWithEvan #FreeAlsu.
About the National Press Club
Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world’s leading professional organization for journalists. The Club has 3,000 members representing nearly every major journalism organization and is a leading voice for press freedom in the United States and around the world.
About the National Press Club Journalism Institute
The National Press Club Journalism Institute promotes an engaged global citizenry through an independent and free press, and equips journalists with skills and standards to inform the public in ways that inspire a more representative democracy. As the nonprofit affiliate of the National Press Club, the Institute powers journalism in the public interest.
Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club