US Senate's bipartisan resolution calls for Brittney Griner's release from Russia

Democrats and Republicans within the United States Senate have come together in support of a proposed resolution that would result in the release of WNBA Star Brittney Griner from Russian prison.

Arizona senators Mark Kelly (D) and Kristen Sinema (D) were two of the authors of the resolution, where Griner is a standout center for the Phoenix Mercury.

“I’ve worked with the State Department to make sure that Brittney Griner’s safe return is a top priority, and this bipartisan resolution shows the Senate’s support for her as well,” Sen. Kelly said in a statement, via ESPN. “Brittney Griner is an inspiration to Arizonans and Americans across the country. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting her and seeing her talent on the court up close. The Russian government unjustly detained Brittney and we will keep working with the administration to ensure her safe and swift return.”

Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon and Sen. John Cornyn of Texas also co-authored the proposal, which had 27 other Senate sponsors including Sen. Ted Cruz, Sen. Raphael Warnock, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Bernie Sanders.

Griner has been forced to remain in prison in Russia due to bringing hashish oil into the country, where she has remained since Feb. 17.

Brittney Griner pens appeal to President Biden, pleads for her freedom on Independence Day

The Fourth of July is a day to honor America and those who have fought for the freedom of each and every United States citizen. To Brittany Griner, Independence Day has been given a completely new meaning to the former Baylor and current WNBA star who is currently detained in Russia.

With that in mind, she sent a letter to the White House for President Joe Biden asking him to help return her and the rest of the American detainees back home to their families safely and swiftly.

“… 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,” Griner’s statement to President Biden read. “On the 4th of July, our family normally honors the service of those who fought for our freedom, including my father who is a Vietnam War Veteran. It hurts thinking about how I usually celebrate this day because freedom means something completely different to me this year.

“I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American Detainees. Please do all you can to bring us home. I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore. I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home.”