A tapestry in honor of John Lennon was unveiled in the presence of Yoko Ono and Amnesty International Secretary General Salil Shetty at a ceremony on Ellis Island.
The tapestry was unveiled by U2's Bono and The Edge, who along with music business impresario Jimmy Iovine, have donated the tapestry to The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation for display at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. The tapestry will remain on display on Ellis island until August 14th and will be permanently displayed in 2016.
The tapestry was commissioned by Art for Amnesty founder Bill Shipsey as a thank you to Yoko Ono for giving Amnesty International the rights to record cover versions of John Lennon’s post-Beatles songs in 2004.
“For many years, Ellis Island has stood as a symbol of the United States’ compassion to those who came to its shores,” said Salil Shetty, Secretary General of Amnesty International. “It is our hope that this beautiful tapestry hanging in this meaningful space will serve as a reminder to extend John Lennon’s message of peace and love to all of those who leave their homes in search of a better life.”
The presentation included remarks by Yoko Ono, Bono and Salil Shetty, Secretary General of Amnesty International.
Yoko Ono said, “This is a happy day for our family, for our John to be honored by the city he so loved. John said IMAGINE ALL THE PEOPLE LIVING LIFE IN PEACE. John knew how urgent it was, and he knew also that what we believe in becomes reality. So let’s Think Peace, Act Peace, Spread Peace, Imagine Peace. And together we will make it. Thank you. I love you!”
