Following the U.S. women’s basketball team’s victory at the Paris Olympics and winning the gold, Brittney Griner openly wept as the national anthem played in celebration of her team’s success. While athletes showing emotions in such moments is common, Griner’s journey to this point is quite extraordinary.
In less than two years, Griner went from sleeping on a blood-stained mattress in a Russian prison to achieving Olympic glory. Her story is unprecedented. Falsely imprisoned on charges of transporting cannabis oil and manipulated politically by Vladimir Putin, Griner understood the significance of the moment. “I didn’t think I’d be here,” she expressed. “And then to be here winning gold for my country, representing, when my country fought so hard for me to even be standing here… yeah.”
| Mark J. Terrill
The outspoken Griner has always courted controversy. However, nothing stirred as much controversy as her call on the WNBA to discontinue playing the national anthem in July 2020. This drew backlash as she declared, “I’m not going to be out there for the national anthem.”
Griner’s arrest in Russia garnered criticism from those who disapproved of her. Her release as part of a hostage swap for a notorious Russian arms dealer, Viktor Bout, led to further scrutiny, with former President Donald Trump questioning the decision to exchange her for someone like Bout. This raised several points of contention.
The major issue was the unequal swap of Griner, with her minor offense, for a felon involved in more severe crimes. Typically, prisoner exchanges involve similar individuals, but this case was different. The criticism of these dubious deals is valid, as they may encourage reprehensible behavior.
While the America-Russia swap didn’t match previous exchanges, it exposed the contrast between a democratic nation valuing its citizens and the rule of law versus a dictatorship that doesn’t. The argument against such deals has merit, with the Biden administration engaging in them frequently without fully considering the long-term repercussions.
Amidst this, Griner became the focal point for criticism, with Trump amplifying the controversy around her national anthem protest for political gain. The situation escalated further, shifting the focus from the anthem protests post George Floyd’s murder.
Rather than focusing solely on Griner’s political views, supporting her as an American citizen unjustly targeted by a foreign power should take precedence. It’s vital to prioritize unity in such instances over internal discord.
So, despite differing opinions on her methods, celebrating Griner’s return home and Olympic gold is integral. Acknowledging her newfound appreciation for the country, despite past disagreements, is crucial. It emphasizes the essence of being American.
Griner’s journey illustrates the importance of unity in adversity and the evolving perspectives individuals develop through challenging experiences. With this lesson in mind, embracing differences and acknowledging growth becomes imperative for all.
Congratulating Griner on her achievements, despite disagreements, reaffirms national unity and highlights the significance of appreciating the diverse fabric of America.
Cliff Smith, a lawyer and former congressional staffer residing in Washington, D.C., shares his views on national security, reflecting on these events and underlining the core values that unite us despite differences.
