Rage Against the Machine has long defended Leonard Peltier, who benefited from clemency at the end of Joe Biden's presidency.
Rage Against the Machine celebrated the release of indigenous rights activist Leonard Peltier, who benefited from clemency by Joe Biden in the final minutes of his presidency.
Peltier, 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. However, he has always maintained his innocence, acknowledging that he participated in the shooting in self-defense, but insisting that he did not kill either officer. His supporters claim that his trial was not fair, that evidence was concealed and that some testimony was obtained under duress.
To motivate his pardon, Biden cited Peltier's age and his ” serious health problems “. Commutation of the life sentence is not accompanied by a full pardon.
Many musicians have spoken out in support of Peltier over the years, including Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Jackson Browne, Common, Robbie Robertson and, of course, Rage Against the Machine. Following the announcement of his release yesterday, the official Rage Against the Machine account posted on Instagram: “ Anger is a gift. Leonard Peltier will be released “. The post also included the music video for “ Freedom », the title of Rage which talks about Peltier.
On X, guitarist Tom Morello called Peltier's imprisonment “a historical injustice » and celebrated his release by writing in capital letters: “ Leonard Peltier is coming home! » He added: “ Leonard has become a friend over the years and I am so happy that at 80 years old and in failing health, he will be able to spend his remaining years with family and friends. »
On Instagram, drummer Brad Wilk wrote: “ After almost 50 years of unjust incarceration, clemency was finally granted to Leonard Peltier! From RATM's first video chronicling his story and the Oglala incident to marching in the streets of New York at the end of Clinton's term and beyond, we have hoped for this day of clemency and justice for Peltier finally arrives. »
Wilk also shared a photo of a necklace Peltier made for her, noting that all four members of Rage Against the Machine received one after the release of the music video for ” Freedom “.
