Two bills support families of hostages, detainees

A bipartisan bill introduced by members of Congress calls for a day dedicated to Americans held by other countries without cause.

If signed into law, March 9 would become National Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day. Sponsors include U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat; French Hill, Arkansas Republican, and U.S. Senators Chris Coons, a Delaware Democrat; Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican; Jeanne Shaheen, a New Hampshire Democrat; and Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican.

“My constituent Paul Whelan was wrongfully detained in Russia just days before I was sworn into office,” said Stevens, an Oakland County native. “For nearly four years, he has been held on false charges, working day in and day out in a prison camp, missing holidays with his family and precious time with his aging parents who miss him dearly.

“The Whelan family, like so many families of hostages detained abroad, have shown unbelievable strength, courage, and grace in what can only be described as a nightmare situation.”

Paul Whelan was living in Novi when he went to Russia to attend a friend’s wedding in 2018. He was arrested and later convicted of espionage, a charge he, his family and U.S. officials said is false. He’s serving his 16-year sentence in a Russian prison work camp.

His twin brother, David Whelan, said the family is grateful for Stevens’ leadership, especially now that she is co-chair of the Task Force.

“She’s been outspoken on Paul’s behalf throughout his wrongful detention,” he said. “A national day will help to highlight the growing problem of hostage taking by nations, one that may not touch every member of Congress’ constituents but threatens all Americans who leave the nation’s borders.”