Get Ready for the Austin Tice Virtual 5K This Saturday! Join the Movement, Not Mere Assistance

National Press Club Hosts 5K Race to support Missing Journalist Austin Tice

Washington, D.C. – The National Press club is set to host the Austin Tice Virtual 5K Race this Saturday, November 8th, in a show of solidarity for the American journalist who has been missing in Syria for thirteen years. Participants can choose to walk or run, either in person alongside colleagues in Washington, D.C., or virtually from any location worldwide.

race Details and Participation

The race is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time.Local runners and walkers will convene in front of the National Press Club building to embark on a course leading around the iconic monuments of the National Mall. The event aims to raise awareness and sustain efforts toward securing Austin Tice’s release. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, as of December 2023, at least 67 journalists and media workers are currently imprisoned worldwide as of their work, highlighting the crucial need for such advocacy efforts.CPJ Report

Steve Reilly will lead the runners, while Zach Cohen will guide those who prefer to walk the course. Individuals who have already registered can arrange to pick up their race t-shirts by contacting Julie schrieber at [email protected].

The Case of Austin Tice

Austin Tice, a freelance journalist, was abducted in Syria in August 2012 while reporting on the ongoing conflict. The Press Freedom Center has been actively collaborating with the Tice family, relentlessly advocating for his safe return. The family maintains hope and continues to push for greater governmental attention to his case. the U.S.State Department has consistently affirmed its commitment to bringing Tice home, offering a $5 million reward for information leading to his safe return.

The 5K race draws participants not only from the Washington, D.C. area, but also from across the United States and internationally, all united in their support for the Tice family and their determination to keep Austin’s story in the public eye.

Event	Date	Time	Location
Austin Tice Virtual 5K Race	November 8, 2025	9:00 AM ET	Washington, D.C. (and virtually worldwide)

Did You Know? The Committee to Protect Journalists has been documenting press freedom violations globally as 1981, providing critical data and advocacy for journalists under threat.

As of October 2024, the U.S. government has officially acknowledged that Syria remains a very hazardous region for American citizens,making efforts to locate and rescue detained individuals increasingly complex.

Do you think increased international pressure could help secure Austin Tice’s release? What more can be done to protect journalists working in conflict zones?

Supporting Press Freedom: A Continuing Imperative

The case of Austin tice underscores the inherent risks faced by journalists reporting from conflict zones. Protecting press freedom is essential for maintaining a well-informed public and holding power accountable. Organizations like Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists work tirelessly to advocate for the safety and rights of journalists worldwide.

Ongoing threats to journalists include physical violence, imprisonment, censorship, and online harassment.Supporting thes organizations and raising awareness about press freedom issues are vital components in safeguarding the crucial role journalists play in a democratic society.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Austin Tice 5K

• What is the Austin Tice 5K race? It is a fundraising and awareness event to support the family of Austin Tice, a journalist abducted in Syria in 2012.
• How can I participate in the race? You can participate virtually from anywhere in the world,or in person in Washington,D.C.
• Where does the race benefit go? All proceeds go toward continued advocacy efforts for Austin Tice and supporting his family.
• is there a registration fee for the 5K race? Yes, there is a registration fee, which varies depending on participation type.
• How do I get my t-shirt for the race? Contact Julie Schrieber at [email protected].

Share this story and join the conversation! What are your thoughts on the importance of supporting journalists at risk? Leave a comment below.

How does participating in the Austin Tice Virtual 5K contribute to broader advocacy efforts for journalist safety beyond Austin’s individual case?

What is the Austin Tice Virtual 5K?

This Saturday, November 9th, 2025, join a global community in supporting the freedom of Austin Tice, a journalist detained in Syria as 2012. The Austin Tice Virtual 5K isn’t just a run or walk; it’s a powerful statement demanding his return and highlighting the critical importance of press freedom and journalist safety. Participants can complete the 5K (3.1 miles) at their own pace, anywhere in the world, making it accessible to everyone. This year’s event aims to amplify the call for Austin’s release and raise awareness about the dangers faced by journalists covering conflict zones.

How to Participate in the Virtual Race

Signing up for the Austin Tice 5K is simple and impactful.Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Register Online: Visit the official event website (https://www.austinticefamily.org/virtual5k – link current as of Nov 5, 2025) to register. registration fees directly support the efforts to secure Austin’s release.
2. Choose Your Route: Select a 5K route that works for you – a local park, your neighborhood, a treadmill, or even a scenic trail. Get creative!
3. Track Your Run/Walk: Use a running app (Strava, Runkeeper, MapMyRun) or a fitness tracker to record your 5K.
4. Share Your results: Post a photo of yourself completing the 5K on social media using the hashtag #FreeAustinTice and tag @AustinTiceFamily.Encourage your friends and family to join the movement!
5. Virtual Bib: Download and print your virtual bib number after registration.

Why “Join the Movement, Not Mere Assistance”?

The Austin Tice Virtual 5K is about more than just donating to a worthy cause. It’s about actively participating in a global movement advocating for human rights,political prisoners,and the protection of freedom of the press. “mere assistance” implies a passive role; joining the movement means becoming an advocate, raising awareness, and demanding action from governments and international organizations.

This event directly supports the Tice family’s ongoing efforts to lobby for Austin’s release and keep his story in the public eye. The funds raised contribute to legal fees, advocacy campaigns, and maintaining pressure on those who can help bring Austin home.

The Importance of Journalist Safety & Press Freedom

Austin Tice was reporting on the Syrian civil war when he was abducted at a checkpoint in August 2012. His case highlights the extreme risks journalists face when covering conflict zones. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reports a consistently alarming number of journalists imprisoned worldwide, often facing threats, violence, and even death.

* Press Freedom index: Organizations like Reporters Without borders (RSF) publish annual Press Freedom Index reports, illustrating the state of media independence globally.

* Impact of Imprisonment: The imprisonment of journalists silences critical voices and hinders the public’s access to information.

* Austin’s Story: Austin’s dedication to truthful reporting, even in the face of danger, embodies the core principles of journalism.

Benefits of participating Beyond Supporting Austin

Participating in the Austin Tice Virtual 5K offers benefits beyond contributing to a vital cause:

* Physical activity: A great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

* Community Building: Connect wiht a global community of supporters.

* Raising Awareness: Become an advocate for journalist safety and human rights.

* Personal Fulfillment: Knowing you’re making a difference in someone’s life.

* Promoting Global Citizenship: Engaging with a critical international issue.

Real-World Impact: Past Events & Advocacy

Previous Austin Tice Virtual 5K events have generated critically important media attention and raised crucial funds for the Tice family’s advocacy efforts. The events have been covered by major news outlets, including the Associated Press and CNN, helping to keep Austin’s case in the spotlight. The family has used the