(Nashville, TN) - January 20, 2025, marks the annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

“On this day of coinciding significance, during a time of perpetual American strife and division, let today serve as both a marker and reminder. Let this be another moment when we decide to be better, void of moral turpitude and hate, but rather filled with the kindness, love, and reverence we should express for one another as children of our Creator. As our shared journey continues, as the days ahead arrive at our doorsteps, let us lead with courage and call upon the teachings we have been blessed with to elicit profound conviction, reflecting the values we should all share in common as part of our greater American community and as fellow human beings,” said USET/USET SPF Executive Director Kitcki A. Carroll.

This morning, in the aftermath of a winter snowstorm, when the air was still bitterly cold, and as his Administration came to an end, the news was announced that President Biden has commuted the sentence of Leonard Peltier! Perhaps it was apropos on this day that we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who often stated, “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” In this case, after over forty-seven years behind bars, the arc finally arrived at the doorstep of justice for Mr. Peltier and his family.

“Our USET/USET SPF family joins relatives across Indian Country in expressing our gratitude, joy, and relief that Leonard Peltier has been freed from over 47 years of unjust imprisonment. We applaud President Biden and this Administration for its bravery and righteousness in extending clemency to Mr. Peltier in the sunset of his life. Additionally, we express our appreciation to everyone over the years who advocated so strongly for his release. While nothing can truly set right the violation of his rights and decades of wrongful captivity, this action of compassion brings some healing and justice to Mr. Peltier and his family, as well as this painful chapter in the history of Tribal Nation-United States relations,” said USET SPF President Kirk Francis.

Today’s action to allow Leonard Peltier to serve the remainder of his sentence in home confinement surrounded by family, coupled with the reasons why we celebrate the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today, is a reminder of the good that is possible, even when it may feel like darkness and storm clouds fill the sky. While today is often a day for quiet reflection, it should equally serve as a resounding call to action…a reminder that anything is possible, even if the arc is long. To meet this call for the days ahead, and every day, we offer you with some thoughts for reflection that we hope will inspire you: