36 Americans: The Story of James W. Foley and Those Currently Being Wrongfu

Zack Shahin, detained since 2008, is currently being held in the United Arab Emirates. Mor Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim, detained since 2013, is currently being held in Syria. Paul Overby, detained since 2014, is currently being held in Afghanistan.

These are names of three of the 36 American nationals that are currently being wrongfully detained throughout the world. As with most hostages, they did nothing to warrant the detainment and, in many cases, the American government has decided not to pursue trying to bring them back. This is where the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation, Inc. steps in. Their mission is to advocate for American hostages and wrongful detainees held abroad.

The foundation takes its name from James Foley, who was a 1996 graduate from Marquette University with degrees in history and Spanish. As a life-long lover of literature, James thought he wanted to pursue a career in creative writing, however, he would soon realize that he wanted to tell “true” stories. He went on to pursue a degree in journalism before embarking on a career in conflict journalism.

His first abduction was in 2011, when he was reporting for the Boston Global Post as a freelance journalist. He would be detained for 44 days by the Libyan government.This abduction, however, would not deter James from continuing as a conflict journalist. The following year, James would begin reporting on the conflict in Syria, also for the Boston Global Post. On Thanksgiving Day 2012, James was kidnapped and after a year and nine months in captivity, he was beheaded by ISIS because he was an American journalist.

It is because of his bravery and moral courage in the face of certain death that his mother, Diane Foley, created the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation, Inc. The foundation has advocated successfully for the return of over 140 Americans (as of December 2024) held captive abroad. Most recently, they worked with families to secure the release of ten American nationals who were held hostage by the Maduro regime in Venezuela.

Spend an evening with Diane as she shares her story, chronicles James’ career and gives us advice on what ordinary citizens can do to help bring these 36 Americans home. Diane will have available for purchase her best-selling book, American Mother. Contact [email protected] or call 414.276.5170 to register for the event.

Appetizer Buffet

Shrimp Risotto Balls

Pistachio and Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Roasted Mushroom Pate on Crostini

Smoked Salmon Canapé with Lemon-Caper Mayonnaise

Walnut Grape Chicken Salad Canapé

Cherry Tomatoes Stuffed

with Bacon and Mascarpone

Spinach and Artichoke on Crostini

Classic Cocktail Meatballs

Macarons, Truffles and Fruit Kabobs

Coffee & Hot/Iced Tea Service

Host or Publisher Woman's Club of Wisconsin