University spokesman Al Cubbage said Wednesday that NU administrators are hoping to build support for James Foley’s (MSJ ’08) release from Libyan prison by utilizing social media and hanging “Free Foley” posters around campus. He said no effort has been made by the University to contact the U.S. State Department on Foley’s behalf.
“The University is very hopeful our alum will be freed,” he said. “We support any effort that leads to his release.”
White House Press Secretary Jay Carney responded to questions about the captured journalists through his Twitter feed.
“We are very concerned but can’t go into detail,” his message said. “We’re working hard to assist them in any way we can.”
University President Morton Schapiro said he would look into ways the University could provide support.
Thursday marks the 17th day of detainment for four journalists who were captured by pro-Gadhafi forces near the contested city of Brega. The Libyan conflict remains a source of danger for journalists. On Wednesday, Academy Award-nominated journalist Tim Hetherington and Getty Images photographer Chris Hondros were both killed in Misurata.
