Fantastic original 7 x 11 'Justice for John and Yoko Committee' petition form, beautifully signed in bold felt tip, "John Lennon," adding his address at The Dakota, "1-W. 72 St., N.Y. N.Y. 10023," plus a classic caricature doodle of himself and Yoko Ono; also signed below by Yoko, "Yoko Ono Lennon." At the top of the form is a five-paragraph statement endorsing the Lennons as individuals of singular artistic or cultural accomplishment, and therefore welcome to live and work within the United States of America. The petition closes: "In the belief that the principles of our constitution guarantee as fundamental personal rights the entitlement of John Lennon and Yoko Ono to live and work freely in our country, I wish to publicly add my name to those who oppose their impending expulsion and who support the legal and legislative steps necessary for their permanent residence in the United States." The bottom edge has a 'lick and stick' band of adhesive, and the reverse is pre-printed as no-postage necessary business reply mail addressed to the Justice for John and Yoko Committee. In fine condition, with trimmed edges.
These petitions were inserted into John and Yoko's 1972 album Some Time in New York City as a means to raise support for their American residency: John Lennon faced deportation from the United States after his temporary visa expired, largely due to a 1968 marijuana conviction in the UK. However, many believed the Nixon administration targeted Lennon because of his outspoken anti-war activism and broad influence over countercultural youth movements. Lennon and his wife, Yoko Ono, fought the deportation in court for several years, arguing it was politically motivated. In 1975, after an outpouring of public support and numerous legal efforts, Lennon won the battle, allowing him to stay in the U.S. and eventually obtain a green card. A remarkable piece boasting ideal, incredibly bold autographs of John Lennon and Yoko Ono.
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