Enes Kanter is native of Turkey and an outspoken opponent to Turkish president Erdogan. Kanter has sacrificed much in the push against Erdogan, including his passport — revoked by Turkey — and even a relationship with his family.
But Kanter presses on in the name of human rights, and the newest Portland Trail Blazers big man now has some added support. Veteran Oregon senator Ron Wyden has issued a call to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, asking him to tell the Turkish government that the country’s retaliation against Kanter is unacceptable treatment of a citizen by a U.S. ally.
Via Twitter:
Amazing to be represented by a senator from #Oregon @Ronwyden who stands up for Democracy, Freedom of speech and Human Rights!
— Enes FREEDOM (@EnesFreedom) March 8, 2019
Proud to be in this state.
Can’t thank you enough 🙏 #RipCity https://t.co/zAuKrg3AEH
Wyden has been a champion for things like this in Oregon for most of my life, and this is no surprise coming from him.
If you want to hear more about Kanter’s situation, you can listen to this Road Trippin’ podcast he was a guest on to get more details.