On January 19, 2025, President Joe Biden announced a series of clemency actions, including a posthumous pardon for the late civil rights icon Marcus Garvey, who played a crucial role in advocating for Black pride and empowerment. Garvey, convicted of mail fraud in 1923, is widely regarded as a pioneering figure in the movement for racial justice and self-determination among African Americans.

The White House emphasized that Garvey's conviction was a product of politically motivated actions aimed to undermine his influence in the African American community. After his conviction, he was deported to Jamaica, where he lived until his death in 1940. Martin Luther King Jr. once commended Garvey for bringing a sense of dignity and destiny to millions of Black individuals across the globe.

In addition to Garvey, Biden pardoned four other individuals: immigration advocate Ravi Ragbir, Virginia House Speaker Don Scott, prison reform advocate Kemba Smith Pradia, and gun violence prevention advocate Darryl Chambers.

Biden, who is noted for issuing more individual pardons and commutations than any other President in history, described the pardoned individuals as having demonstrated significant contributions to their communities, worthy of second chances. His administration has focused on addressing historical grievances and racial injustices, which have been long-standing issues in the United States.

Among the commutations announced were sentences for Michelle West and Robin Peoples, both of whom faced extensive prison terms for offenses that have seen evolving legislative perspectives.

Biden's clemency decisions come amid speculation about whether he will extend preemptive pardons to individuals threatened with prosecution by the incoming administration of Donald Trump, which remains a contentious topic in political discussions.

These recent pardons represent a significant acknowledgment of America's ongoing journey towards justice and rehabilitation for all its citizens, especially those who have faced systemic inequalities. The actions may foster further discourse on reform initiatives necessary to rectify long-standing injustices within the criminal justice system.