Justice Delayed or Justice Denied?
President Biden’s decision to issue pardons to Marcus Garvey and Leonard Peltier carries profound significance, historically and in contemporary social justice movements. These pardons address long-standing grievances and highlight the ongoing struggle for racial and indigenous rights in the United States.
Marcus Garvey: A Posthumous Pardon
Marcus Garvey, a prominent Black nationalist and civil rights leader, was convicted of mail fraud in the 1920s, a charge widely believed to be racially and politically motivated2. Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and the Black Star Line were instrumental in promoting Black pride and economic independence. His conviction and subsequent deportation to Jamaica were seen as efforts to undermine his influence and the broader movement for Black empowerment.
By issuing a posthumous pardon, President Biden acknowledges the historical injustice faced by Garvey and the impact of his work on future generations. This pardon serves as a symbolic gesture, recognizing Garvey’s contributions to civil rights and the unjust nature of his conviction. It also underscores the importance of revisiting and rectifying historical wrongs, even decades later.
Leonard Peltier: A Commuted Sentence
Leonard Peltier, an Indigenous activist and member of the American Indian Movement (AIM), was convicted of the 1975 killings of two FBI agents during a standoff at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Peltier has maintained his innocence, and his case has become a symbol of the systemic injustices faced by Native Americans. Over the years, numerous human rights organizations and advocates have called for his release, citing concerns about the fairness of his trial and the conditions of his imprisonment.
President Biden’s decision to commute Peltier’s sentence, allowing him to transition to home confinement, is a significant step towards addressing these concerns. While not a full pardon, the commutation acknowledges the broader context of Peltier’s case and the need for compassion in the face of prolonged incarceration. This action highlights the importance of addressing historical and ongoing injustices Indigenous communities face.
Broader Implications
The pardons of Garvey and Peltier reflect a broader commitment to social justice and rectifying historical wrongs. They represent a willingness to confront and address the systemic issues that have disproportionately affected marginalized communities. These actions also serve as a reminder of the power of advocacy and the importance of continuing to fight for justice and equality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Biden’s pardons of Marcus Garvey and Leonard Peltier are significant for the individuals involved and the broader movements they represent. These pardons acknowledge historical injustices, highlight the ongoing struggle for racial and indigenous rights, and underscore the importance of addressing systemic inequities. As the nation grapples with issues of justice and equality, these actions serve as a powerful reminder of the need for continued advocacy and reform.
SOURCES:
Rolling Stone
New York Daily News
apnews.com
Harold Michael Harvey, JD, is the Living Now 2020 Bronze Medal winner for his memoir Freaknik Lawyer: A Memoir on the Craft of Resistance. He is the author of a book on Negro Leagues Baseball, The Duke of 18th & Vine: Bob Kendrick Pitches Negro Leagues Baseball. He writes feature stories for Black College Nines.com. Harvey is a member of the Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, HBCU and PRO Sports Media Association, and the Legends Committee for the National College Baseball Hall of Fame. Harvey is an engaging speaker. Contact Harvey at [email protected].