On this week’s episode of “Street Politicians,” hosted by Tamika D. Mallory and Mysonne “The General,” they talked with Griner’s closest friend and “sister” Jinelle Roy to provide an update on Brittney’s return to the states. She began by discussing the unjust way the Russian government handled the situation and the helplessness she feels when thinking of Griner. As of today, she has still not been able to have any verbal communication with Griner, but has received written letters from Brittney that the Russian government allows to be sent out. Shortly after Griner’s detention, WNBA players that were in Russia with her were asked to leave the country to avoid any further “potential harassment” from the Russian government.
Griner has been unfairly detained and according to Jinelle Roys, “She was there because she had a job to do, not because she wanted to be there.” The logistics of this situation and the clear double standard women face in society needs to be brought to light. Griner’s voice should not have to be silenced out of fear for her life. She should not have to spend up to 10 years in prison for a crime the U.S. State Department has determined to be a wrongful accusation. A bigger fight should be made for her, if this were someone like Stephen Curry a lot more outrage would have been expressed.