Why isn’t Brittney Griner back on American soil?
Over 100 days later, Brittney is still detained in Russia, and NBA players speak out. Over the weekend, Carmelo posted a petition online to have her released. In the caption, he said, “Today is the 105th day that our friend, sister, teammate, Brittney Griner has been wrongfully detained in Russia.” He continued,
“Day 105! It is time to bring her home. Let’s bring attention to this matter by sharing BG’s story and signing the petition: WeAreBG.org #WeareBG” Take a look:
LeBron James took a public stance over the weekend and said on Twitter, “We need to come together and help do whatever we possibly can to bring BG home quickly and safely!! Our voice as athletes is stronger together.” In another message, he said, “It is imperative that the U.S. Government immediately address this human rights issue and do whatever is necessary to return Brittney home.”
We need to come together and help do whatever we possibly can to bring BG home quickly and safely!! 🙏🏾 Our voice as athletes is stronger together. @uninterrupted 👑 #WeAreBG pic.twitter.com/2GWV3Ff81p
— LeBron James (@KingJames) June 6, 2022
On February 17, WNBA star and two-time Olympic gold medalist Brittney was detained at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities claimed they found vape cartridges while searching her luggage. The cartridges allegedly contained oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison over there.
On March 17, Moscow extended Brittney’s arrest until May 19. Around this time, the U.S. State Department determined Russia “wrongfully detained” Brittney. On May 13 Brittney’s lawyer said his client’s pretrial detention in Russia was extended for one more month.
In Brittney’s hometown in Houston, Texas, ABC reports gathered outside the Toyota Center, demanding her release on June 6. Mayor Sylvester Turner deemed 6/6 “Brittney Griner Day.”
U.S. Marine Trevor Reed also advocated for Brittney’s release. He said, “I was wrongfully detained in Russia in 2019, and I was a prisoner there for 985 days.” Her family believes BG is being used as a political pawn. Biden admitted Brittney was wrongfully detained.
Hoping she’s released ASAP. We’ll keep you updated.