There’s so many athletes, so many actors, so many singers and rappers out there. They’re scared to say a word because they care too much about their money – the endorsement deals, what the teams they play for say," Kanter said.

"They should know one thing: It should be morals and principles over money. It shouldn’t be the opposite way. People’s life depends on this," he continued, noting that athletes in all sports are role models to young people around the world.

Kanter added that he feels alone in his efforts to call out China for its repeated atrocities.

"So many people care too much about the business side of it," Kanter said. "But to me, human rights are way more important than anything you offer me."