It looks like the hip-hop community isn’t the only ones standing behind Meek Mill after he was sentenced to years in prison for a probation violation. Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf reportedly launched a petition on Wednesday (Nov. 8) seeking to prevent Meek from going to prison, citing the flawed justice system and the rapper’s continued contributions to his hometown’s youth.

“I felt the need to create a petition to reevaluate the charges, his impact in the community and the subsequent sentencing,” Wolf explained of his decision. “More than just a celebrity or rapper, Meek Mill has been a powerful voice in the community for our youth. He has made positive contributions to many communities and programs, dedicating time and money to the cultivation of our youth and neighborhoods; even through his own adversities. He has continued to be dedicated and shown an immaculate work ethic, even at times when the system tried to prevent him from being able to tour, which is how he makes a living.”

Furthermore, the petition dissects the charges that led to his violation, noting that they were previously dropped. “The charges that led to his current violation were subsequently dropped and the stiff sentence was handed down despite recommendations from his probation officer and the district attorney,” he continued. 

While it’s unclear whether the petition will truly affect Meek’s future, Wolf stated that it is simply “designed to show the amount of people who believe that the punishment was harsh and that him being imprisoned will be a disservice to the youth and community at large.”

Wolf’s statement and the petition piggyback off similar claims made by Jay-Z earlier this year. After initially declaring Meek’s sentence as “heavy handed and unjust,” Hov recently spoke about the issue again during his concert in Dallas. "Meek caught a charge when he was, like, 19," Jay stated. "He's 30 now. He's been on probation for 11 years. Fucking 11 years. The judge gave him two to four years because he got arrested for being on a bike and popping a fucking wheelie."

Meek Mill’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, announced on Tuesday (Nov. 7) that he intends to appeal the “ridiculous case.” The petition has already garnered more than 50,000 signatures out of a goal of 75,000. To join the #FreeMeekMill movement, signed the petition here.