Biden Grants Pardons on Last Day in Office, Including to Marcus Garvey

President Biden grants pardons to prominent figures, including civil rights leader Marcus Garvey, on his final day in office, emphasizing redemption and justice.

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Politics

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Summary

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On January 19, 2025, President Biden posthumously pardoned civil rights icon Marcus Garvey among others, citing political motivations behind Garvey's original conviction in the 1920s. Biden's pardons, which included advocates for social justice and immigrant rights, emphasized themes of redemption. Notable individuals pardoned included Virginia Delegate Don Scott, immigrant rights activist Ravi Ragbir, Pridia, and gun violence activist Darryl Chambers. Biden commuted sentences for Michelle West and Robin Peoples. This marks Biden's record-setting number of pardons as he prepares to leave office.

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From the Left

A recap of the main views or arguments shared by left-leaning sources.

Biden posthumously pardoned Marcus Garvey, a pivotal figure in Black nationalism and civil rights, highlighting a commitment to redressing historical injustices and elevating figures who contributed to racial pride.
In addition to Garvey, Biden's pardons included advocates for immigrant rights, gun violence prevention, and significant figures in criminal justice reform, showcasing a broad agenda to support marginalized communities.
Biden's pardoning record eclipses those of previous presidents, reflecting a strong use of executive power aimed at advancing rehabilitation and social justice efforts.

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From the Right

A recap of the main views or arguments shared by right-leaning sources.

Biden's pardons, including that of Marcus Garvey, are framed as politically motivated responses to calls from congressional leaders, suggesting that they may be more symbolic than substantive.
The article emphasizes Biden's record on clemency in a competitive context with President Trump, stressing the contrast between their approaches to justice and punishment.
The pardons are acknowledged as part of a broader narrative around Biden's tenure, which includes questionable decisions like the pardon for his son, Hunter, indicating potential ethical concerns.

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Highlights (10)

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The recent pardons by President Biden, including that of Marcus Garvey, reflect a commitment to rectifying historical injustices and emphasize the importance of redemption in American society.
Biden issues pardon to late Black nationalist Marcus Garvey, who influenced civil rights movement
PBS NewsHour
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Leans Left
As President Biden reflects on his presidency, his commitment to granting clemency highlights a profound belief in redemption and the transformative power of second chances, a legacy he aims to leave behind amidst a tumultuous political landscape.
Biden pardons Marcus Garvey, Don Scott and 3 others in final full day action
CBS News
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
Biden's decision to posthumously pardon Marcus Garvey not only underscores the need for a reevaluation of historical injustices but also highlights his commitment to criminal justice reform as he prepares to leave office.
Biden posthumously pardons Black nationalist Marcus Garvey
NBC News
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
Biden's clemency actions reflect a bold commitment to justice and redemption, embodying a significant shift in the approach to criminal justice reform within his administration.
Biden Pardons Marcus Garvey, 4 Others in Final Full Day of Presidency
Epoch Times
Mixed Reliable
The underlying sources have a mixed track record. They provide accurate information in some cases but are known to inject bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting. Read these stories cautiously and cross-check claims when possible.
·Right
Biden's final act of clemency underscores a significant shift in recognizing the disparities of justice, particularly the long-overdue acknowledgment of figures like Marcus Garvey, whose contributions to civil rights are celebrated, but whose legal troubles plagued his legacy for too long.
Biden pardons Virginia House Speaker Don Scott, Black nationalist Marcus Garvey
NPR
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
President Biden's decision to posthumously pardon Marcus Garvey not only seeks to rectify a historical injustice but also highlights the enduring legacy of a civil rights icon who inspired generations in the fight for racial equality.
Biden Issues Posthumous Pardon to Civil Rights Leader Marcus Garvey
Rolling Stone
Mixed Reliable
The underlying sources have a mixed track record. They provide accurate information in some cases but are known to inject bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting. Read these stories cautiously and cross-check claims when possible.
·Left
Biden's decision to posthumously pardon Marcus Garvey marks a significant acknowledgment of the injustices faced by Black leaders, highlighting a commitment to rectify past wrongs and recognize the profound impact of Garvey's contributions to civil rights.
Biden posthumously pardons Black nationalist Marcus Garvey
CNBC
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
Biden's decision to grant a posthumous pardon to Marcus Garvey underscores his commitment to rectifying historical injustices while signaling a new approach to criminal justice during a time of significant political transition.
Biden posthumously pardons civil rights leader Marcus Garvey
The Guardian
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Leans Left
President Biden's posthumous pardon of Marcus Garvey not only rectifies a historical injustice but symbolizes a broader commitment to racial pride and recognition of those unjustly punished.
Biden posthumously pardons Black nationalist Marcus Garvey
ABC News
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
President Biden's decision to pardon individuals, including the influential Marcus Garvey, reflects a commitment to addressing historical injustices and acknowledging the contributions of those who have paved the way for civil rights advancements.
Joe Biden pardons five people, including late civil rights leader Marcus Garvey
USA TODAY
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center