In a significant act of clemency, President Joe Biden has decided to release Leonard Peltier from prison, marking the culmination of a decades-long movement by Indigenous activists, human rights organizations, and notable public figures advocating for his freedom. Peltier, now 80 years old, was convicted in connection with the deaths of two FBI agents in 1975 during a tumultuous period surrounding Native American civil rights.
Biden’s executive order, signed on January 19, states that Peltier’s commutation will take effect on February 18. The decision has drawn both support and backlash, particularly from law enforcement circles, who maintain that Peltier’s actions warrant a lifetime sentence due to the nature of the crime—which they describe as murder.
In his official statement, Biden emphasized the extensive advocacy that led to this moment. He highlighted support from Tribal Nations, distinguished leaders, and numerous human rights organizations advocating for Peltier’s release based on his advanced age, health conditions, and long duration of incarceration. The executive decision is characterized as a commutation and not a pardon, allowing Peltier to serve the remainder of his sentence in home confinement instead of prison.
Nick Tilsen, executive director of NDN Collective, hailed Peltier’s release as historic, stating that it represents a long struggle for justice. He expressed that every Indigenous person stands to gain from seeing one of their own return home. Kevin Sharp, formerly the Chief Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee and one of Peltier’s representatives, praised the act for fostering healing and reconciliation with the Native American community.
Peltier’s health has deteriorated over the years, prompting advocates to argue for his release. He has faced complications from diabetes and kidney disease among other ailments. During a recorded phone conversation following the announcement of his commutation, Peltier expressed overwhelming happiness and a desire to return to his community, where he hopes to continue supporting his people.
However, the decision has stirred dissatisfaction among members of the law enforcement community, including FBI representatives who argue that Peltier’s conviction was justified. In the years following the murders of the agents, numerous judges have thoroughly evaluated the evidence against Peltier and upheld the ruling, leading figures like FBI Director Christopher Wray to voice their concerns about the clemency being granted.
Advocates have tirelessly campaigned for Peltier’s release, drawing international attention from organizations such as Amnesty International and notable figures including Pope Francis and actor Robert Redford. Notably, a group of 120 tribal leaders recently urged Biden to reconsider Peltier’s case, linking it to broader issues of justice and human rights.
Biden’s decision reflects a significant shift in addressing historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities, demonstrating the importance of compassion in the criminal justice system. As Peltier prepares to return home, it stands as a hopeful reminder of the power of persistent activism and the potential for reconciliation in communities that have faced deep-rooted challenges.
In summary, Leonard Peltier’s release is a landmark moment, symbolizing decades of organized effort for justice and highlighting ongoing dialogues about Indigenous rights and criminal justice reform in the United States. As Tilsen remarked, this moment represents not just a man’s freedom, but the culmination of extensive advocacy for human rights and healing within Indigenous communities.