Peltier, who is 80, spent nearly 50 years in federal prison after being convicted of killing two FBI agents in 1975 on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Peltier, however, has always maintained his innocence, acknowledging he participated in the shootout as self-defense, but insisting he did not kill either agent. Supporters have also claimed that Peltier's trial was unfair, alleging that evidence was withheld and some witness testimony was coerced.
In granting Peltier clemency, Biden cited Peltier's age and "severe health ailments." The commutation of Peltier's life sentence does not come with a full pardon.
Many musicians have spoken out on Peltier's behalf over the years, including Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Jackson Browne, Common, Robbie Robertson, and, of course, Rage Against the Machine. Following the news of his release yesterday, the official Rage Against the Machine account posted on Instagram, "Anger is a gift. Leonard Peltier to be freed." The post also included RATM's 1994 music video for "Freedom," which focused on Peltier's case.
On X, guitarist Tom Morello called Peltier's imprisonment a "historical injustice" and celebrated his release in all-caps, writing "Leonard Peltier is going home!" He added, "Leonard has become a friend over the years and I am so glad at 80 years old and in poor health he will be able to spend his remaining years with family and friends."
And on Instagram, RATM drummer Brad Wilk wrote, "After almost 50 years of unjust incarceration, clemency was finally granted to Leonard Peltier! From as far back as the first RATM video which marks his story and the incident at Oglala to marching in the streets of NY at the end of Clinton's term and beyond we have been hoping for this day of clemency and Justice for Peltier to finally come."
Wilk also shared a photo of a necklace that Peltier made him, noting all four members of Rage Against the Machine received one after the "Freedom" video came out. Wilk said the moment felt both "unreal" and "bitter sweet."