Brittney Griner made a particular look on the 2023 NAACP Picture Awards on Sunday, simply over a 12 months after her preliminary detainment in Russia.
“As we collect right here tonight within the spirit of overcoming adversity, I need to take a second to acknowledge somebody who has performed simply that,” host Queen Latifah mentioned as she launched the skilled basketball participant. “Again dwelling, again right here with us tonight the place she belongs, our sis, Brittany Griner.”
Griner was arrested in Russia in February 2022 when customs officers mentioned they discovered vape canisters with hashish oil in her baggage, The Related Press reported. Her case rapidly gained nationwide consideration since she is an brazenly homosexual Black lady, detained in a rustic the place authorities have been hostile to the LBGTQ neighborhood.
She was sentenced in August and remained jailed till December when American and Russian officers mentioned Griner was freed in a dramatic high-level prisoner change, with the U.S. releasing infamous Russian arms seller Viktor Bout.
As she took the stage on the ceremony in a black swimsuit and white shirt, together with her spouse Cherelle Griner, she obtained a standing ovation from the viewers. “We’re simply really so grateful to all of the individuals, lots of whom are Black girls and organizations, who fought so onerous to convey BG dwelling tonight,” Cherelle mentioned, carrying a purple swimsuit.
Griner, who lately re-signed with the Phoenix Mercury, continued, “It feels so good to be right here, particularly with my stunning, wonderful spouse and with all of y’all right here right now. I need to thank everybody and let’s maintain combating to convey dwelling each American nonetheless detained abroad.”
The televised 54th NAACP Picture Awards aired reside on Sunday following per week of non-televised ceremonies. Discover the whole winners listing right here.
