Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick's Statement on the Release of WNBA Brittney Y. Griner

WASHINGTON – After nearly 10 months in Russian detention, Brittney Griner has been released from custody. I commend the Biden Administration for their tireless efforts to negotiate her release. 

On July 4, 2022, Brittney sent a handwritten letter to President Biden asking him not to forget her and the other American detainees. He did not. 

Thank you, President Biden, and Vice President Harris, for delivering on your commitment to bring Brittney home and reaffirming your commitment to ensuring the safe return of other American detainees such as Paul Whelan. 

As we celebrate Brittney’s return, we must never stop advocating for the release of all Americans wrongfully detained by state actors. It is estimated that at least 153 Americans have been wrongfully detained since 2001. Such detentions are an emerging threat to national security. 

In my capacity as a Member of Congress and a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, I will continue to amplify my voice and stand for the just treatment and protection of Americans against authoritarian regimes who lack respect for the rule of law. 

I am grateful Brittney is free from custody, safe, and homeward bound. It is my hope that Brittney can reunite with her family, friends, and teammates, and begin the healing process that is needed following her horrific and unjust detention.

###