Brittney Griner Face New Criticism For Kneeling During National Anthem After Her Time in Russian Captivity

June 4, 2024

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Brittney Griner, a WNBA star, stands firm against critics who call her un-American for kneeling during the national anthem. Her experiences in Russia have only deepened her appreciation for the freedoms she exercised and defended.

Griner Defends Her Patriotism Amid Criticism

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Brittney Griner, the acclaimed WNBA player, expressed her shock at being labeled un-American for kneeling during the national anthem. She asserted that her actions were a demonstration of her rights as an American, and she couldn’t understand why anyone would consider her protest as unpatriotic.

Confronting Critics on National Television

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On “The View,” co-host Joy Behar asked Griner to address the critics who believed her protest made her undeserving of America’s help during her legal troubles in Russia. Griner responded passionately, emphasizing that everyone makes mistakes and that her actions were a legitimate form of protest.

Honoring Her Father’s Legacy

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Griner highlighted her deep connection to American values through her father’s service. Her father, a Vietnam War veteran and longtime law enforcement officer, had always been her hero. She recounted how she had aspired to follow in his footsteps by joining the police or military, not playing basketball.

The Right to Protest

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Griner argued that her right to protest made her more American, not less. She insisted that exercising her rights was a core aspect of her identity and patriotism, a principle her father had fought to protect.

Global Contrast on Protest Rights

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Griner pointed out that many countries around the world do not allow citizens the freedom to protest. Reflecting on her experience in Russia, she appreciated the rights she has in the United States even more deeply.

Arrest and Detainment in Russia

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In February 2022, Griner was arrested at a Russian airport for carrying vape cartridges containing cannabis oil. Her detainment became a high-profile case, culminating in her release in December 2022 in exchange for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.

Harsh Conditions in Russian Prison

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Griner shared harrowing details of her time in a Russian penal colony, nearly 300 miles from Moscow. She described the grim conditions, including a mattress with a huge bloodstain and thin sheets that barely offered any comfort.

Constant Fear of Violence

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The basketball star recounted the constant fear of violence in the prison. She explained how sticking any part of her body through the bars was dangerous, as other inmates could grab and harm her.

Reflecting on Her Ordeal

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During her first sit-down interview after her release, Griner spoke on ABC’s “Good Morning America” about her prison experience. The ordeal had given her a new perspective on the freedoms she once took for granted.

Standing for the National Anthem

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After her release, Griner stood for the national anthem in her first game back in 2023. She shared how her time in Russian captivity had deepened her appreciation for the anthem and the flag.

Valuing American Freedoms

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Griner expressed that hearing the national anthem and seeing the American flag meant more to her after her ordeal. She emphasized her renewed commitment to standing for the anthem while also supporting others’ right to protest.

Embracing the Right to Protest

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Griner reiterated her belief in the fundamental American right to protest. She stood by those who chose to express their dissent in different ways, underscoring that such freedoms are a crucial part of what makes America great.