“It’s time we speak loudly about such matters” Journalist gets brutally honest on Brittney Griner’s case
Brittney Griner
It has been over 4 months since Brittney Griner was first detained after the Russian Federal Customs Service claimed it found hashish oil in her luggage at an airport near Moscow, as reported by The New York Times and Russian News agency TASS. Very recently she has sent a handwritten letter to President Joe Biden, saying that she fears she will be detained in Russia indefinitely and pleaded with the President not to forget about her and other American detainees. Though the situation is very tense and complicated considering international borders and laws, many supporters are hoping for the early return of 31-yers old WNBA star. On Independence day CNN took the topic in hand, trying to make people’s feelings clear to the Administration.
In a brief discussion, CNN’s Brianna Keilar and journalist Cari Champion explain the attempts made in various ways like the media’s coverage of and public opinions, press conferences, and even some of the NBA Stars giving their open support to fellow Basketball stars in interviews.
Journalist Cari Champion explains the situation and tries to “Wake” the US Administration in Brittney Griner’s case with LOUDER Actions
After the news of Brittney Griner’s detention was made public in February, her close ones and people tried hard to get her back, but after so many days and no effective actions, Many “outsiders” and fans started to weigh in on the matter. Media also tried their best to pressure the Bidden Government to make a decisive move on the Trials.
The basketball fraternity also didn’t air to see their fellow athlete back in their home country. The WNBA announced on May 3 that it will feature Griner’s initials and jersey number (No. 42) on the sideline of all WNBA courts this season. NBA stars also were making their presence felt through social media posts and even giving-out interviews in her favor. The Women’s Basketball league also granted the Mercury roster and salary cap relief so they can carry a replacement player.
“As we begin the 2022 season, we are keeping Brittney at the forefront of what we do through the game of basketball and in the community,” WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a statement. “We continue to work on bringing Brittney home and are appreciative of the support the community has shown BG and her family during this extraordinarily challenging time.”
The media was also not left behind, covering every aspect of the situation and sending updates as they got one. Cari Champion also said that they were part of an event showing support to the Phoenix Mercury player stuck in Russia.
In the very recent update, she sent a heartfelt letter to the Biden Office, expecting quick action, she wrote, “(As) I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever,” according to a statement released by the communications company representing the Griner family.
She went on trial at a court near Moscow on Friday on drug smuggling charges. Griner’s supporters and US officials say she has been wrongfully detained and has called for her release. Many even suggested that if it would have been any very influential athlete, like LeBron James in a similar situation, the Government might have acted differently and positively. But after so much hype and attention given to the news and no results till now, CNN reporter feels that there should be louder actions to push the Government for strict actions.
Kunal Chawda
(600 Articles Published)