Event Details:
What: Concert For Austin Tice
When: Wednesday, Aug. 14
Where: Ballroom of National Press Club, 529 14th Street NW (13th Floor)
Schedule:
4:30 p.m.: Doors Open
5:00 p.m.: Introduction by Emily Wilkins, President of the National Press Club, followed by the first music set by Scotty Hasting
5:30 p.m.: Program featuring:
Robert O’Brien, Former Director of National Security
Brian Bruggemen, Austin’s Commanding Officer
Tony Hunter, McClatchy CEO
Matt Murray, Executive Editor of The Washington Post
Antony Blinken, Secretary of State (Invited)
6:10 p.m.: Second music set by Scotty Hasting
6:40 p.m.: Closing remarks by Debra Tice, Austin’s mother
About Austin Tice:
Austin Tice, a freelance journalist for McClatchy, The Washington Post, and others, was abducted in Syria on Aug. 14, 2012. President Biden confirmed last year that Austin is being held by the Syrian government. The concert program will provide updates on Austin’s case, recent activities, and the ongoing efforts to secure his release.
Recent Developments:
Since August, U.S.-Syria communications about Austin’s release have been ongoing, confirmed by Syria and Oman but not by the U.S. Despite some progress, including high-level meetings and an advocacy campaign by The Washington Post and Hostage Aid Worldwide, efforts have been hindered by opposing factions and lack of governmental will.
Call to Action:
A letter urging President Biden to prioritize Austin’s case is circulating in the Senate, with 13 signatories so far. More needs to be done to bring Austin home.
Additional Information:
For more details, visit Austin Tice’s family website. The event will be live-streamed at press.org. Press coverage is welcome, but advance registration is required.
