On the eve of his departure from office, President Biden granted pardons to several individuals, most notably Virginia House Speaker Don Scott and the historical figure Marcus Garvey, whose posthumous pardon reflects a long-standing call for justice. Scott, who was convicted of a nonviolent drug offense in 1994 and served seven years in prison, has since rebuilt his life, becoming not just a lawyer but also the first Black speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates in 2024. Upon receiving the pardon, Scott expressed gratitude for Biden’s commitment to second chances and reflected on the profound impact of his conviction on his family.
The posthumous pardon of Marcus Garvey, an influential Black nationalist who inspired civil rights figures like Malcolm X, comes as a significant acknowledgment of his contributions to the African American community. Garvey was previously convicted of mail fraud in the 1920s and was a prominent advocate for Black empowerment through initiatives such as the Black Star Line, the first Black-owned shipping and travel line.
In addition to Scott and Garvey, President Biden pardoned three other nonviolent offenders: immigrant rights activist Ravi Ragbir, prison reform advocate Kemba Smith Pradia, and gun violence prevention advocate Darryl Chambers. Each representative highlighted how these pardons symbolize a broader recognition of the detrimental effects of harsh sentencing, particularly during the War on Drugs, which disproportionately impacted communities of color and women who have faced intimate partner violence.
Furthermore, Biden commuted the sentences of two individuals, Robin Peoples and Michelle West, who faced extensive prison terms for their nonviolent offenses. Both commendations were welcomed by their families and advocates, with West’s daughter expressing immense gratitude after decades of advocacy for her mother’s release.
Overall, Biden’s final act of clemency underscores a commitment to justice reform and reflects a hopeful message: that redemption and second chances are achievable, marking a positive shift towards a more compassionate approach in the U.S. justice system. This stance could serve as a foundation for deeper discussions on reforming policies that address systemic injustices in the years to come.