Commemorating the Inaugural Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day: Honoring Loved Ones
Witness the heartfelt gathering of senior officials, returning Americans, and families awaiting the return of their loved ones at the poignant ceremony outside the US State Department. A new flag is raised in anticipation of the nation's historic Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day.
Senior US officials, Americans who had been detained abroad and their families came together in front of the US State Department to witness the raising of a new flag in honor of the nation’s inaugural Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day.
Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell addressed the crowd on Friday, emphasizing the significance of the occasion. Standing before the flag adorned with the words “bring them home” and numerous tally marks, he described the day as solemn and poignant.
Today we gather to honor those who have come home, those who will never return, and those who are still held captive. This is a chance for us to renew our commitment to standing together against hostage diplomacy and upholding peace, justice, and human dignity for everyone.
The State Department will raise the flag each year to commemorate the return or passing of any hostages or wrongfully detained individuals.
Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day will be observed annually on March 9 to honor former FBI agent Robert Levinson, who was abducted in Iran 17 years ago. Levinson is believed to have passed away in Iran. His family members are strong advocates for the hostage and detainee community, and legislation on wrongful detention has been named in his honor.
Campbell, speaking outside the State Department on Friday, promised the loved ones of those still held abroad: “The United States government stands with you and we will work tirelessly until you are reunited with your loved ones.”
However, some people did not find the message convincing. They feel that the US government has not given enough attention to their missing loved ones' cases, with little to no updates or public acknowledgment over the years.
Family members of Americans detained abroad demonstrate in front of the White House on March 8, 2024.
Family members of Americans detained abroad demonstrate in front of the White House on March 8, 2024.
Jennifer Hansler/CNN
Maryam Kamalmaz expressed feeling invisible as her father, Majd Kamalmaz, was detained in Syria in February 2017 and has not been heard from since.
She, along with other family members, have requested a meeting with President Joe Biden, but their request has not been granted yet.
After the flag raising on Friday, they met in Lafayette Park in front of the White House to once again share their concerns.
Harrison Li expressed their frustration, stating, "We are tired of coming to DC, standing in front of the White House, and begging President Biden to meet with us, even if just for a few minutes." His father, Kai Li, has been held in China since 2016.
"We were here in December, sitting in this park, hoping to speak with President Biden about our loved ones," shared Aida Dagher, the sister-in-law of Zack Shahin, who is imprisoned in the United Arab Emirates. "The next morning, he met with the families of Gaza hostages. We are happy for them and not envious. We just want equal treatment."
US officials have reassured that meeting with the president is not necessary to ensure that their cases are being addressed and does not speed up the release process.
Li acknowledged that not all families have had the opportunity to meet with the president yet. He expressed understanding that the process is not simple and there is no quick fix. Li emphasized the importance of the president being informed about their loved ones and being reminded of their names in order to take action.
US officials have stated that bringing back Americans who are wrongfully held in foreign countries is a top priority. During his State of the Union address, President Biden emphasized the commitment to tirelessly work on bringing home individuals like Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, who are unjustly detained by the Russians and others worldwide.
Paul Whelan expressed his desire to speak with President Biden in an interview with CNN. He wants to remind the President and the National Security Council about his situation, being held as a hostage by the Russian government. Whelan urges the Biden administration to take decisive actions to secure his release.
“If they don’t do anything, I’m stuck here. And if I’m stuck here, I die here,” he said.
Editor's P/S:
The inauguration of Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have been held captive and the unwavering commitment of the US government to bring them home. The symbolic flag raising ceremony, adorned with the poignant words "bring them home," underscores the gravity of their plight. However, the concerns raised by family members of missing loved ones illustrate the need for greater transparency and engagement from the government. Their frustration stems from a perceived lack of attention and updates on their cases, leaving them feeling invisible.
The US government's assurances that meeting with the president is not a prerequisite for addressing their concerns are met with skepticism. Families argue that such meetings would provide a platform for them to share their loved ones' stories directly with the highest authority, potentially expediting the release process. By raising awareness and highlighting the human toll of wrongful detention, Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day serves as a catalyst for continued advocacy and support for those still held captive. It is crucial that the government actively listens to the voices of these families and takes tangible steps to secure the safe return of their loved ones.
