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BIC NEW YORK

Baha'is face new wave of arrests in Iran

BIC NEW YORK, United States — The Baha'i community in Iran is facing yet another wave of arrests and shop closures. In a coordinated attack on the community by Iranian authorities on Sunday 15 November, twenty Baha'is were arrested in three cities after their homes were raided and searched. The arrests occurred in the cities of Tehran, Isfahan and Mashhad. The confirmed names are as follows: 6 in Tehran Mr. Sahba Farnoush Ms. Negar Bagheri Ms. Nava Monjazeb Mr. Yavar Haghighat Mr. Navid Aghdasi Ms. Helia Moshtagh 9 in Isfahan Mr.Keyvan Nik-Aien Ms. Parvin Nik-Aien Ms. Yeganeh Agahi Mr. Matin Janamian Mr. Arshia Rowhani Ms. Zarrin Agha Babaie Mr. Adib Janamian Mr. Sahab Rowhani Mr. Vahid Karami 5 in Mashhad Ms. Sanaz Eshaghi Ms. Nika Pakzadan Ms. Farzaneh Daneshgari Ms. Nagmeh Zabihian Ms. Nakisa Hajipour Additionally, 28 shops were closed down by the authorities in Mazandaran and Kerman. Significantly, these closures took place a day after the Baha’i community marked two of the most significant Baha’i Holy Days—the Birth of the Bab and the Birth of Baha’u’llah, which fall on consecutive days—by refraining from work. For shop owners, this entails closing their stores—an act which then leads to a punitive response from the authorities, who have frequently prevented the Baha’is from reopening their shops. Indeed, some shops that were closed after the Twin Holy Days in 2014 have yet to be permitted to reopen. Further details are pending. (Editor's note: On 24 November 2015, five more names were added to the list of Baha'is arrested on 15 November: 4 in Isfahan and 1 in Mashhad. Further, in paragraph 4, the number of shop closures was changed to more accurately reflect updated information.)

UNITED NATIONS

United States

UN condemns Iran for continuing human rights violations

UNITED NATIONS, United States — The UN expressed "serious concern" yesterday over Iran's continuing human rights violations, affirming that increased engagement with the international community on some fronts does not mean that Iran is no longer expected to uphold international standards for its people. "In September, President Hassan Rouhani told the UN a 'new chapter' had been opened this year for his country, but the passage of this resolution today shows that the international community still expects action on human rights, not mere words," said Bani Dugal, the principal representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations, following the UN vote. Ms. Dugal noted that at least (20) Baha'is in Tehran and elsewhere were arrested last weekend, and at least (28) Baha'i-owned shops were sealed in a continuation of the government's campaign of economic repression against Baha'is. (See Editor's note below.) "The sad fact is that human rights violations in Iran have continued unabated since President Rouhani came to power two years ago, as is shown by Iran's ongoing arrests and shop closures—and by the depth and strength of this resolution," said Ms. Dugal. Tally board from the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly passes resolution on the promotion and protection of human rights in Iran."The resolution cites a wide range of abuses, such as the lack of due process, widespread discrimination against women and the persecution of minorities, including members of the Baha'i Faith," said Ms. Dugal. The resolution was passed by the Third Committee of the General Assembly, which monitors human rights issues worldwide. The vote was 76 to 35 with 68 abstentions. Among other things, the resolution expresses "serious concern" about "ongoing severe limitations and restrictions on the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief". It also urges the government to release the seven imprisoned Baha'i leaders, and "to eliminate, in law and in practice, all forms of discrimination, including the closure of businesses, and other human rights violations against persons belonging to recognized and unrecognized religious minorities". "The resolution is quite specific in detailing all of the human rights violations that are currently ongoing in Iran, and it also lays out clearly how Iran could live up to its obligations under international law," said Ms. Dugal. "For example, it calls on Iran to cooperate fully with the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran by accepting, for example, his repeated request to visit the country, and it asks Iran to follow through on recommendations made at the Universal Periodic Review last year," said Ms. Dugal. The resolution was put forward by Canada and co-sponsored by 42 other countries. It follows reports on human rights in Iran by Ahmed Shaheed, the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who both expressed concern over Iran's continued violations of international human rights law. For more information, go to https://www.bic.org (Editor's note: On 24 November 2015, two corrections were made in paragraph three to more accurately reflect the number of arrests and shop closures that occurred on the weekend of 13 to 15 November.)

HAIFA

Israel

Baha'i Media Bank online

HAIFA, Israel — The Baha'i Media Bank, which was originally launched in 2006, has been made available again. The site provides access to a large collection of Baha'i images, including photographs of the Baha'i community, historical figures, and holy places, for use in publications, websites, and media presentations. The site will be updated with new additions. The Baha'i Media Bank can be found at http://media.bahai.org.

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PARIS

France

At COP21 Baha'is see movement toward unity

PARIS, France — The outcome of last week's UN Conference on Climate Change, known as COP21, which resulted in an accord signed by 196 nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reflects a significant step towards greater unity and cooperation among nations as the world learns to face major global challenges, says the Baha'i International Community (BIC). "From the perspective of unity in action, the Paris conference must be considered a success," said Serik Tokbolat, a representative of the BIC to the United Nations. "While some have suggested the final document falls short of what is really needed to prevent major effects from climate change, the world has proven its ability to come together at the global level and to consult deeply about its future." Mr. Tokbolat represented the BIC as part of a Baha'i delegation to the conference, which brought together thousands of representatives of government, business and civil society. The UN Environmental Programme (UNEP) tweets a passage from the BIC's official statement for COP21, titled "Shared Vision, Shared Volition: Choosing Our Global Future Together"."Our focus, in our activities, discussions and statements, was to call attention to the need for individuals, communities, and institutions everywhere to develop new patterns of action and interaction that can help humanity collectively take a more balanced attitude toward the environment. "Humanity can take steps to prevent the negative effects of climate change and improve its relationship with the planet if it acts with vision and volition," he said. The main contribution of the Baha'i International Community to COP21, he said, took the form of an official statement, titled "Shared Vision, Shared Volition: Choosing Our Global Future Together." The document explains that "sustainable patterns of individual and collective life will ... require not only new technologies, but also a new consciousness in human beings, including a new conception of ourselves and our place in the world." The International Environment Forum (IEF), a Baha'i-inspired organization, also participated in the event. Both the BIC and the IEF organized, co-sponsored, or participated in a number of side events to COP21. Arthur Dahl, president of the IEF and a retired Deputy Assistant Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), said, "the IEF sought to broaden the discussion of climate change beyond the science and technological solutions to include the values-based social transformation that will be fundamental to implementing the Paris Agreement. "It supported this with practical examples of the learning in Baha'i communities, as in Vanuatu and Malaysia after natural disasters, and in Baha'i-inspired courses on climate change, as well as in research on values-based learning to motivate sustainable lifestyles and on mechanisms of accountability in international governance."

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2.3200410217200766

UNITED NATIONS

United States

Ongoing human rights violations in Iran spotlighted in UN vote

UNITED NATIONS, United States — Last month, 20 Baha'is were arrested by the Iranian authorities, which also carried out a series of coordinated shop closures, affecting some 28 Baha'i-owned businesses. Today the UN expressed "serious concern" about such religious discrimination in Iran, along with other continuing human rights violations. By a vote of 81 to 37 with 67 abstentions, the UN General Assembly approved a resolution addressing the overall human rights situation in Iran, expressing concern not only about religious persecution but also the government's frequent use of the death penalty, failure to uphold legal due process, restrictions on freedom of expression, and ongoing discrimination against women and ethnic minorities. "We welcome this resolution," said Bani Dugal, the principal representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. "It shows that the international community remains aware and concerned about Iran's continued violations of the rights of its citizens in a wide range of areas, despite government rhetoric to the contrary and its promises to improve. "Certainly for Iranian Baha'is, the government's policy of systematic and widespread persecution remains unchanged. Just last month, as the General Assembly was considering this resolution, Iranian authorities arrested 20 Baha'is in three cities, while also closing at least 28 Baha'i businesses in another six cities. Such actions demonstrate the wide ranging and centrally directed nature of its anti-Baha'i program," said Ms. Dugal. Among other things, the resolution expresses "serious concern" about "ongoing severe limitations and restrictions on the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief". It also urges the government to release the seven imprisoned Baha'i leaders, and "to eliminate, in law and in practice, all forms of discrimination, including the closure of businesses, and other human rights violations against persons belonging to recognized and unrecognized religious minorities". The resolution was put forward by Canada and co-sponsored by 44 other countries. It follows reports on human rights in Iran by Ahmed Shaheed, the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who both delineated numerous examples of Iran's continued violations of international human rights law.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

In another brave gesture, senior cleric calls for justice

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Ayatollah Abdol-Hamid Masoumi-Tehrani, a senior Muslim cleric in Iran, has courageously called on his nation's people to uphold a higher standard of justice and dignity for all of their countrymen and women. In a recent article on his website, he has dedicated a new piece of calligraphy—a passage from the writings of Baha'u'llah—to the Baha'is who were arrested on baseless charges in November of this year. The extract chosen by Ayatollah Tehrani, taken from "The Hidden Words", speaks to the undaunted response of the Iranian Baha'i community to ongoing and systematic persecution. This symbolic action follows on his gift to the Baha'is of the world in April 2014 of an illuminated calligraphic rendering of a verse from the Baha'i writing that says, "Consort with all religions with amity and concord". His recent article (available here in Persian) expresses the hope that his act "may raise the conscience of my fellow countrymen by considering increasing their respect for human dignity and not focusing their attention on different ethnicities, languages and religions". He also challenges his compatriots to examine the chasm between the values espoused by their religion and the acts of oppression perpetrated in its name. A calligraphic work by Ayatollah Abdol-Hamid Masoumi-Tehrani, containing the words of Baha'u'llahAyatollah Tehrani has also posted a statement on his Facebook page (available here in English) in which he calls upon "progressive people of Iran to advance the topic of civil rights for all Iranians, irrespective of religion, sex, race, and ethnicity. "National identity and not religious differences should be regarded as the unifying agency for all citizen of that country. Aggrandizing differences instead of accentuating similarities results in nothing but oppression and corruption," the statement continues. Ayatollah Tehrani's voice is raised together with the voices of a growing number of Iranian intellectuals and artists, both within and outside Iran, who are promoting a culture of justice and coexistence and speaking out on behalf of Baha'is and other groups facing oppression in Iran. See 'other stories' below.

COLLEGE PARK

MARYLAND

United States

Exploring the foundations of peace

COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND, United States — It is 30 years since the Universal House of Justice released The Promise of World Peace, a groundbreaking statement addressed to the peoples of the world on the subject of global peace. Presented to over 80 world leaders, The Promise of World Peace was published at a time when the question of a nuclear annihilation loomed large over humanity. Yet, it asserted that global peace is the inevitable next stage of humanity's social evolution. Whether the path to peace would entail enormous suffering, however, would depend on the decision of the world's leaders and its peoples. The letter provided a compelling exploration of the root causes of peace and extended the challenge of peace well beyond the questions of disarmament and security, to the deep-seated social disorders that act as barriers to peace. Its release inspired the founding of The Baha'i Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland in 1993. "The head of the Center for International Development and Conflict Management at the university was very interested in the peace statement and said, 'Why not have a program on campus that explores this process-oriented approach to peace'," explains Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi, the current holder of the Baha'i Chair. As an academic program at the University of Maryland, the Chair provides a forum to advance research on global peace issues. "Since its inauguration," describes Dr. Mahmoudi, "international academics and experts have been invited to participate in various forums and present insights on peace-related topics ranging from the advancement of women, structural racism, and the root causes of prejudice to understanding human nature and climate change. "Within an academic setting the Baha'i Chair is trying to bring in new thinking about these issues, but, above all, thinking that also is willing to address values." Our approach has also sought to integrate diverse disciplines in the pursuit of new insights in humanity's efforts to create a more peaceful world, Dr. Mahmoudi further explains. "We invite many scholars to come and address barriers to peace," Dr. Mahmoudi says. "One of the requests we make is that they talk about solutions. Academics are good at diagnosis, and we are grateful for that. But the Chair is also seeking insights that can shed light on the seemingly intractable barriers to peace. "This is a very difficult area, the solutions are not always clear. "At no time does the Baha'i Chair believe that it has the answers. What it does believe that it's doing is engaging in a process of learning, research and education, to gain a more profound understanding of the barriers to peace and ways forward." The Baha'i Chair not only brings in leading research on peace-related themes but also, in many ways, challenges some of the fundamental assumptions that have become consolidated in contemporary discourse and which block progress towards peace. One such barrier, identified by the Universal House of Justice in The Promise of World Peace, is the belief that humanity is inherently and incorrigibly selfish. Addressing this subject in her inaugural address in 2012, Dr. Mahmoudi explained: "Today, unfortunately, aggression and conflict characterize our social order, an order that encompasses political, religious, economic and cultural systems. In fact, many are resigned to the view that violence and warring are inborn human behaviors and, therefore, unchangeable. Such beliefs are often responsible for and lead to a paralysis of will among individuals, a cognitive numbness that is not easy to reverse, but which must be overcome. Here, the role of education is vital in removing unfounded views about human nature." The Baha'i Chair's mission extends beyond dialogue between academics and experts and into the classroom. In her classes, as well as in talks open to the entire student body, Dr. Mahmoudi aims not only to expose students to the leading edge of thinking in academia but also to promote a culture of peace at the university and beyond. The campus-wide community is also invited to conferences organized by the Chair. Earlier this year, up to 300 people attended a major conference, titled 'Global Transformations: Context and Analytics for a Durable Peace', which was co-hosted by the Chair together with the Baha'i International Community. "We attract a lot of students around diverse disciplines," says Dr. Mahmoudi. "We're promoting a dialogue in which students interact with academics and practitioners, and often profound questions are asked. "We can see that when we bring different minds together in a dialogue that is non-adversarial and that seeks to promote understanding, thought advances," says Dr. Mahmoudi. Through its various forums, the Baha'i Chair captures emerging insights and publishes them as contributions to the discourses relevant to global peace. Dr. Mahmoudi is the third holder of the Baha'i Chair, following Suheil Bushrui (1993-2006) and John Grayzel (2006-2011). More information on the Baha'i Chair can be found here.

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-76.94610290199051

HAIFA

Israel

Momentous conference opens

HAIFA, Israel — The Conference of the Continental Boards of Counsellors commenced this morning. Some 80 senior officers of the Baha’i Faith hailing from nearly every part of the globe have arrived at the Baha’i World Centre. In the coming days, these individuals—referred to as Counsellors— will consult on the development of the worldwide Baha’i community in the immediate years ahead. For three days prior to the start of the conference, the Counsellors visited the Baha'i Shrines and other sacred places associated with the Faith to draw inspiration and spiritually prepare for the consultations that begin today. A message from the Universal House of Justice for the occasion will provide the focus for the consultations throughout the gathering. Participants will deliberate on the next stage of the capacity-building process under way in the Baha'i community through which Baha'is are collaborating with others and learning to contribute to the spiritual, moral, and material advancement of the societies where they reside. Every five years, the Universal House of Justice appoints a total of 81 Counsellors around the world, who organize their work through five Continental Boards. The conference is held shortly after the new appointments. The Counsellors work to support elected Spiritual Assemblies around the world by promoting learning within the Bahai community and stimulating the development of vibrant patterns of community life. In the institution of the Counsellors, the Baha’i community has a system through which the lessons learned in the remotest spots on the globe can benefit the worldwide Baha’i community in its efforts to apply the teachings of Baha’u’llah. For more information about the administrative structure of the Bahá’í Faith, see here.

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HAIFA

Israel

Lofty aims mark close of conference

HAIFA, Israel — The conference of the Continental Boards of Counsellors, which commenced on 29 December, came to conclusion earlier today with a message of the Universal House of Justice addressed to the Baha'is of the world. Over the past five days, the conference enabled a global conversation about the next stage of the development of Baha’i communities around the world. The Counsellors consulted on the path of development that unfolds as Baha’i communities learn, together with others, how Baha’u’llah’s teachings apply to a vast array of social settings, from the remotest of villages to sprawling urban centers, and across diverse cultural realities. Their consultations, stimulated by a message of the Universal House of Justice addressed to them for the occasion, touched on a number of themes, including how an educational process that builds capacity for service to humanity can be strengthened and its reach extended, how increasingly formal organizational arrangements emerge as a growing numbers of people participate in community-building endeavors and as complexity increases, and how the devotional character of a community can be enhanced as gatherings for worship, open to all, take root in communities and multiply, kindling a desire to be of service to the common good. The discussions also explored how efforts to contribute to the revitalization of communities in thousands of localities across the planet and to the betterment of society as a whole could be intensified in the coming years. Some 80 Counsellors from 60 countries attended the conference. The consultations were translated into six languages simultaneously throughout the meeting.

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MANAMA

Bahrain

Bahrain lectures address peace

MANAMA, Bahrain — The road to peace is long and arduous, but the journey is not in vain. This was among the main messages offered by Dr. Sawsan El-Hady in talks she delivered on 8 and 9 December, in Bahrain. An Egyptian scholar of the Arabic language who has championed the cause of peace throughout her life, Dr. El-Hady addressed some 100 people—academics, authors, NGO representatives—over the two days of her visit. Her talks, which led to vibrant discussions among the participants, explored the cultivation of peace at the grassroots, the role of the individual in promoting a harmonious society, and the invaluable contribution of women to peace processes, among other themes. While acknowledging the formidable challenges before humanity, Dr. El-Hady's talks offered a hopeful vision for the future. But much, she argued, would depend on laying the groundwork for harmonious coexistence among diverse populations. "Creating a society characterized by peaceful coexistence requires persistent effort," she said. Progress toward peace, she explained, would not reach its goal without addressing the question of justice in society. She also spoke about the importance of establishing unity, based on recognition of our common humanity. "Unity, a pre-requisite for peace, finds its meaning in realizing the value of our diversity and appreciating the unique gifts that each person brings to the mosaic of humanity." A movement towards a more peaceful society requires a reevaluation of the role of religion, Dr. El-Hady further explained. While religion has been distorted and used for harmful ends, she emphasized its power to change patterns of thought and action, establish a sense of a common human identity, and promote a moral character and world-embracing vision. Dr. Sawsan El-Hady gives a presentation about the contribution of women in establishing peace on 9 December 2015 at the Bahrain Society for Sociologists.Dr. El-Hady, a Baha'i, is one of the first female graduates of Al-Azhar University in Cairo, an institution renowned for being the oldest university in Egypt and regarded by many as the chief center of Arabic literature and Islamic learning in the world. Dr. El-Hady has helped establish Arabic programs at universities in several countries during her distinguished career. Her lectures were organized in cooperation with the Bahrain Baha'i Society, a Baha'i-inspired NGO that promotes social harmony and peace. The events build on a growing discourse in Bahrain on peaceful coexistence.

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50.5822436

HAIFA

Israel

Bahai.org launches in six new languages

HAIFA, Israel — Efforts to make the official website of the worldwide Baha'i community available in nine major languages are well under way. Today, the core of the sections entitled "What Baha'is Believe" and "What Baha'is Do" has been made available in Arabic, French, Chinese, Persian, Russian and Spanish. The site will also go up in Hindi and Portuguese later this year. The new site was launched in English a year ago. It explores the teachings and writings of the Baha'i Faith and presents the experience of people throughout the world who, inspired by the vision of Baha'u'llah, are striving to contribute to the betterment of society.

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TANNA

Vanuatu

After catastrophe, youth lead reconstruction in Vanuatu

TANNA, Vanuatu — Ten months after Cyclone Pam devastated Vanuatu, the island of Tanna has made remarkable strides towards recovery, with youth at the heart of the process. Tanna lies in the South Pacific Ocean along the archipelago making up the Republic of Vanuatu. It is one of five locations worldwide in which the first local Baha'i Houses of Worship will soon be raised. Over the past decade, Baha'is and their fellow islanders have been working to strengthen the fabric of community life there. In villages throughout the island, collective worship has become part of the regular pattern of life. Baha'is have witnessed a rise in social harmony and cooperation between different groups. Barriers that had previously divided people have gradually fallen away. And urged on by the support of village chiefs, the young people of the community have, in recent years, found the means to contribute to the betterment of their society through a variety of practical projects. In March 2015, the island of Tanna was ravaged by Cyclone Pam—a tropical cyclone with wind speeds reaching up to 320 km/h. "Our houses were being blown away one by one," explained a mother from the village of Tumah Mine. "We decided to take refuge at the school in the next village. We had to walk for about one kilometer. It was going to be a very dangerous walk as many large trees and branches were falling, and objects were flying everywhere. "I prayed and asked Baha'u'llah to please protect us, especially our children. Sometimes we had to run, sometimes we crawled, and other times we lay flat." Despite Cyclone Pam's catastrophic impact on the island of some 30,000 people—destroying not only houses, buildings, and roads but also decimating local agriculture—there were remarkably few fatalities. Director of the Vanuatu Immigration Service Henry Tamashiro—a Baha'i in the national capital, Port Vila—has been following developments on Tanna very closely and has been struck by the response of the population there, during and after the storm. Iala Jacob, a local coffee farmer on the island of Tanna, in the newly-established nurseryDescribing the community's priorities in the immediate aftermath of the storm, he explains, "They tried to re-conceptualize the meaning of 'relief phase' and 'reconstruction phase' in light of what they had been learning about community-building. "They concluded that the response to the cyclone could not just be about building structures. The most important thing to the community was to make sure the education of the children and youth would continue." The first priority then, Mr. Tamashiro explains, was to reconstruct the buildings that had hosted classes for the young. Those structures would also be used to house the vulnerable members of the community. Mr. Tamashiro particularly emphasizes the pivotal role youth have played during and after the storm. A year and a half before Cyclone Pam, some 600 youth from Tanna attended a conference in Port Vila organized by the Baha'i community. They joined over a thousand young people from several Pacific islands. Mr. Tamashiro credits the conference for reinforcing a high sense of purpose among the youth and an orientation to service for the betterment of their communities. Following the cyclone, this sense of purpose was manifested to great effect. While the storm was raging across the island, the youth of Namasmetene village, seeing almost all of the houses blown away, helped to carry the children and the elderly to a school where the people of the village took refuge. "They demonstrated a spirit of selflessness in helping others, ensuring all were safe...They lit fires to make sure everyone was warm and dry and all were fed. They did not care just for their own families, they cared for all," said Mrs. Naiu, a Baha'i from the village. "Many families are still thanking them. They say if it were not for their help, they would not have survived." The people of the island have had a strong sense of ownership and participation in their own recovery. For example, speaking about the impact on local agriculture, Iala Jacob, who is the founder and chairman of a local coffee farmer's cooperative which is patterned on Baha'i principles, explains: "The cyclone destroyed most of the coffee farms. Soon after the cyclone the Board of our cooperative met and decided to set up a nursery and plant 36,000 coffee seedlings...We will soon distribute the seedlings free of charge among the farmers." Mr. Jacob expects that the seedlings will be enough to cover about 22 hectares of farmland and will assist the coffee farmers to get off the ground again after the devastation of the storm. Reconstruction has stimulated the community to reassess its building practices and learn how to draw more resourcefully from local materials. In August 2015 local Baha'is in Tanna began to rebuild a center in Nakayelo that had been destroyed by the cyclone. The site had been an important center of activity. About 20 local youth worked together with an architect from Papua New Guinea to design and start the construction of four buildings on the site. As part of these efforts, they also began experimenting with potential building materials that could be found locally. "The intention of these experiments is to learn about sustainable building practices using resources within their environment," said Henry Lape, the architect who was assisting with the project. He added that the group of youth would continue a process of learning, experimentation, and building after his departure. Reflecting on the reconstruction process in Namasmetene village, Mrs. Naiu says, "These projects encouraged the community members to arise and take charge of the reconstruction process rather than waiting for an aid agency. We knew that we should not depend on aid donors, but that we should take charge of our own development." Far from deflecting the community from its course, the cyclone has served to reinforce its commitment to the progress of its people, explains Henry Tamashiro. And in the aftermath of the storm, amidst all of the work to rebuild, there is a great excitement about the House of Worship soon to be erected for the entire island. Mr. Tamashiro attributes the inspiring response of the people of Tanna to their trust in Divine Will, even in the face of such a severe natural disaster that continues to impact their lives so many months afterwards. "All they say is 'Thank God'. They thank God for saving their lives and the lives of their children. For them, all the material things they have lost are secondary."

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169.33450144830016

NEW DELHI

India

Delhi seminar explores role of youth in social transformation

NEW DELHI, India — India has the largest youth population in the world, a reality that holds both tremendous promise and potential challenges for the future of the country. Recently, the Indian Institute of Public Administration and the Office of Public Affairs of the Bahá’ís of India organized a seminar at the India International Centre on the subject of youth, entitled The Role of Youth in Social Transformation. Over 40 people attended the event on 10 February 2016, comprising representatives of civil society, government, media, and faith organizations. Young people are needed as leaders and decision makers in spaces where the course and direction of society as a whole are determined. Examining this theme, the seminar looked specifically at youth in community building, the impact of media on youth, and the contribution of youth in addressing climate change. “It’s necessary to include the voices of youth in a meaningful way,” said Farida Vahedi, a Bahá’í working as the head of Youth Empowerment and Capacity Building at the City Montessori School in Lucknow and convenor of the Quality Education Forum of India. Ms. Kiran Soni Gupta—Additional Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India—delivering the inaugural address at the seminar on “Role of Youth in Social Transformation” in New Delhi.“Integrating young people into formal structures of power is of course advantageous for a variety of reasons, but simply feeding ‘young’ voices into ‘old’ systems, if unaccompanied by more substantive forms of participation, runs the risk of degenerating into mere tokenism.” Representing the Indian Government, Kiran Soni Gupta, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of the Youth Affairs and Sports, agreed. “The concept of leadership needs to be redefined,” Ms. Gupta said in her talk at the beginning of the day, setting the tone for the consultation that followed. “It is the youth who can bring a fresh wave of ideas and innovation in society.” This theme was the root of the issues explored during the first panel, which addressed the role of youth in community building. Following this, the second panel, which examined the impact of media on youth, discussed ways that digital media can be harnessed to be used in a positive manner, as well as being aware of the negative ways in which it is used now. Finally, the final panel, led by four individuals with a background in the field of sustainability, looked at the contribution that youth can make to the issue of climate change, particularly in India—a growing society with the potential to have a significant impact on the environment. “Youth must devise new solutions to climate change,” said Tishyarakshit Chatterjee, the director of the Indian Institute of Public Administration. “Solutions must emerge from young minds.” In all of these areas, facilitating steps forward will require learning, capacity building, motivation, and volition, said Mrs. Vahedi. To empower youth to become leaders, new systems of decision making and collaboration must be developed. “Systems characterized by an unbiased search for truth, an attitude of cooperation and reciprocity, and an appreciation for the vital role every individual can play in the betterment of the whole.” Pooja Tiwai, a Bahá’í youth in Delhi, spoke as one of the panelists addressing the contribution of youth to community building efforts. Speaking of her peers, she explained that they dream of a better world and wish to make a contribution to social progress. “Yet, how to go about bringing such change is a question they are faced with,” she said. While there are many positive forces in society which can propel them in this direction, there are also many negative forces which pull them back and become a barrier in achieving the high ideals they cherish. Hence the need for constructive programs that can creatively channelize the energies of a large number of youth. The seminar was the second co-organized by the the Indian Institute of Public Administration and the Office of Public Affairs of the Bahá’ís of India on the subject of youth in society.

28.6138954

77.2090057

MADRID

Spain

Spanish publication explores dimensions of governance

MADRID, Spain — The first of a series of conferences on governance, initiated by the Baha'i community of Spain, has led to a new publication entitled La gobernanza y sus enfoques (Approaches to governance). The book, which contains the presentations given at the conference on the subject, resulted from the successful collaboration of governmental, faith-based, and civil society organizations, and included the private sector. "The Baha'i community of Spain has been committed to learning about models of social organization based on principles of cooperation and reciprocity, social justice, peace, and environmental sustainability," explained Sergio Garcia, the Director of the Baha'i Office of Public Affairs in Spain and editor of the new publication. "This conference was part of a broader effort to participate in discourses in Spain that deal with the betterment of society." La gobernanza y sus enfoques (Approaches to governance) was published earlier this month in Spain.Also representing the Baha'i community of Spain at the event, Nuria Vahdat Owrang described how the Office has been working with organizations oriented toward the common good. "In addition to participating in conferences and roundtables," she said, "we considered organizing a new venue in collaboration with other organizations. That is how the first conference on governance, held at the Centro de Estudios Politicos y Constitucionales (Center for Political and Constitutional Studies), came about." Why governance? "When we began to look more closely at the issue," explained Dr. Garcia, "the Office found a number of reasons to engage it more vigorously. "For example, we noticed the public yearning for more effective models of governance, especially among the youth; the existence of groups of people in Spain coming from different sectors who were already reflecting—at the level of theory and practice—on governance; the importance of good governance in managing collective issues; and the experience of the Baha'i community with its own system of internal governance." The new publication provides a range of contributions. It also challenges certain assumptions in contemporary thought that, according to Dr. Garcia, have become unquestioned and reified and appear to be obstacles to social progress. In this light, these conferences and the associated publications aim to bring together the insights of diverse people who are thinking deeply about governance and exploring new patterns and dynamics in practice. It opens a space for them to have an ongoing conversation, stimulate new practices in society, and even inform policy. The publication includes contributions from Ricardo Garcia Garcia, former Director of Government Relations with Religious Groups under the Ministry of Justice of the Spanish Government, and Inigo Baldres, an economist whose presentation describes a movement in Spain to explore alternative economic models, referred to as Solidarity Economy Network. Sergio Garcia of the Baha'i Office of Public Affairs edited the book. His article describes the pressing issues related to governance and shares insights from the experience of the Baha'i community with its nascent and evolving governance structures. This is the first publication in what the Office intends to be a series of volumes on governance. Plans are in place for a second book, connected to the conference on governance and religion, held at the Palau Roberts of Barcelona.

40.4167047

-3.7035825

INDORE

India

Local economies point to the future

INDORE, India — How does a nation whose economy is growing by 7 percent a year allow for economic prosperity without fueling the rising inequality between rich and poor? How does it connect with the global market system without losing its spiritual and social values? These were some of the questions that were explored at a recent symposium titled "Strengthening Local Economies for a Just Global Order", held on 23 February at Devi Ahilya University in Indore. Some 150 faculty and students participated in the event, organized by the Baha'i Chair for Studies in Development and the University's School of Economics. This dialogue on strengthening local economies was initiated seven years ago when the Institute for Studies in Global Prosperity organized a series of seminars on the discourse on science, religion, and development in India. The Baha'i Chair in Indore is now giving greater attention to local economies in light of the growing concern in the country about the negative effects of globalization, particularly on rural populations. In her opening remarks, Dr. Shirin Mahalati, Head of the Baha'i Chair, stressed the need to avoid dichotomies on the question of globalization, where it is either rejected wholesale or blindly embraced with no thought of its effects. "We have to learn the balance of opening ourselves to the globe without losing all that we have that is precious," she said. Dr. Debashis Debnath, an anthropologist specializing in tribal populations, addresses the audienceA rich dialogue about various dimensions of social and economic development in India followed, focusing primarily on the question of local economies. Speakers discussed some of the challenges and shortcomings of the current approaches to globalization and offered insights about various interventions that could assist India to navigate the path forward. The keynote speaker, a well-known Indian economist, Amitabh Kundu, emphasized the need to strengthen local and regional economies as a response to the growing inequality and ecological degradation that India faces as its doors open to the global market. He also proposed that thinking at the level of local economies can help India find creative solutions to dealing with the challenge of sustaining economic growth while at the same time controlling carbon emissions. "We need a paradigm shift that involves changes in lifestyles and production processes, and this will require interventions to strengthen the local economy." Arash Fazli, a researcher with the Institute for Studies in Global Prosperity and collaborator with the Baha'i Chair, also talked about the opportunity to learn about new economic approaches at the level of villages. "Village economies have their own logic that allows certain features of the community to be maintained—for example, the relationship to nature and social cohesion," he said. "We need to draw on both modern and traditional systems, without imitating the former or romanticizing the latter. "When village economies develop, why must they be limited to either capitalist or socialist models?" We are seeking to forge new patterns and new models." The Dean of Social Sciences, Dr. Kanhaiya Ahuja, emphasized the need for economic models that would reinforce the values of community life, such as compassion, contentment, cooperation, justice, and a sense of duty towards the common good. "Unfortunately," he mentioned, "at present economic growth is being driven by consumerism and competition that are destroying these values." Speakers also discussed the need for economic growth to be balanced and just, requiring development to be viewed within a broader vision of the spiritual and material prosperity of humanity. "Economic models today give humanity a very limited range of options in explaining human behavior," Dr. Fazli said. "One is to explain it in terms of greed, self-interest, and profit motive. The other is to say that the only way to organize society is to have absolute equality. The path to move past these limitations is becoming clearer." "We have to account for people's own sense of themselves as being more than material beings, more than just highly intelligent animals. We have to learn about and develop models—inspired by a more holistic sense of the human being—that can explain behavior. These models don't currently exist." "Focusing on economic activity at the local level allows a population to learn to modernize collectively and in a consultative manner so that values the community holds dear are not sacrificed by blindly adopting external models," stated Dr. Fazli. "An active process of learning is under way at the level of villages and localities as they apply certain economic and spiritual principles with the aim of achieving prosperity in the whole sense of the word. This is a process that can gain in strength day after day."

22.7203616

75.8681996

LONDON

United Kingdom

Seminar highlights links between religious freedom and economic prosperity

LONDON, England — In Iran, the Baha’i community continues to endure intense persecution solely based on religious belief, a blatant violation of a fundamental human right. Unfortunately, throughout the world, freedom of religion or belief is one of the most violated rights. An emerging body of research is suggesting that ensuring such freedoms within business could not only address a major social ill, but also be an unrecognized asset to economic recovery and growth. On 2 March 2016, a seminar held at the UK parliament, and hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Baha’i Faith, heard that there is a strong correlation between religious freedom, economic freedom, and other civil political freedoms. “These findings are useful in our discussions with business,” said panelist Professor Brian Grim, President of the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation. “And there’s a lot that the business world can offer to the human rights community.” Business leaders and entrepreneurs, it was suggested, might develop a long-term interest in engaging with this area of the international human rights discourse, while their perspectives on these matters might also add an important dimension to the understanding of government and parliamentarians. “Business is the crossroads of culture, commerce, and creativity. What brings everyone together and produces a successful service, innovation, or production is a common goal,” said Prof. Grim, who highlighted the efforts of one major automobile manufacturer which, realizing it employs people from almost 140 countries, offers an annual award for intercultural and interfaith innovation. The seminar, which attracted some 70 participants—including parliamentarians, civil servants, academics, human rights activists, business professionals, and faith community leaders—was opened by Jim Shannon MP, who also chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief. Louise Ellman (centre), the Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Baha'i Faith, joins in a small group discussion.“Religious freedom is a fundamental component of peace and stability,” Mr. Shannon said. “Without religious freedom, talented people are pushed away.” The matter needs to move up the political agenda, Mr. Shannon said, to ensure greater economic prosperity, stability, and security. Also on the panel was Baroness Anelay of St Johns, the Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. She said, with intolerance increasing around the world, this commitment is needed more than ever. “Freedom of religion or belief is not just an optional extra alongside the broad spectrum of human rights. It is a key human right in and of itself,” she said. “Where freedom of religion or belief is not fully respected, it follows that democratic values and the rule of law are not fully implemented.” One of the keys to success is education, she said. “We need to ensure that children appreciate from the earliest age that everyone must be valued equally.” Another panelist, Dr. Nazila Ghanea—Associate Professor of International Human Rights Law at the University of Oxford—stressed the importance of every individual having the freedom to decide whether or not to adopt a religion or belief. "The prerequisite to freedom of religion and belief is the freedom to independently investigate the truth and adopt a belief, be it religious or not,” said Dr. Ghanea. Referring to the Baha’i International Community document Freedom to Believe, Dr. Ghanea quoted, “The primary task of the soul will always be to investigate reality, to live in accordance with the truths of which it becomes persuaded, and to accord full respect to the efforts of others to do the same.” Dr. Ghanea asked how such values can be advanced, noting that efforts to transfer standards across different cultures can lead to resistance. “International standards need to be digested in a meaningful way and people need to make them their own,” she said. “Consultation is a very important way of trying to ingrain values in neighborhoods and societies.” Participatory discussion groups were then held where innovative ideas were explored to enhance awareness, support religious freedom, and equip businesses with tools and ideas. The seminar is intended to be the first step in a longer process to build a deeper conceptual understanding of issues of freedom of religion or belief in British political life and society.

51.5073219

-0.1276474

BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Cambodia temple earthworks completed

BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — Following the design unveiling in mid-July of last year and the groundbreaking in November, work on the local Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang, Cambodia, has reached a new milestone. A major phase of the earthworks has recently been completed, captured in new aerial video footage. To prepare the two hectare area, 23,000m3 of earth were excavated, moved, and compacted to accommodate the platform where the central edifice of the House of Worship will be raised. This land will also include modest auxiliary structures and pools surrounding the temple, which will be maintained in a similar manner to natural ponds found in neighboring villages. Work on the foundation to support the House of Worship is scheduled to commence in the coming weeks, and construction of the central edifice is forecasted to begin in June 2016. Earthworks were recently completed on the temple site in Battambang, Cambodia.The House of Worship in Battambang, which will give expression to the vibrant collective life there—centered on worship of God and service to humanity—has come to reflect the dynamic spirit of the community and is already galvanizing its inhabitants. Continued progress on the project is being carefully documented through a variety of approaches, such as aerial and time lapse photography, with the hope that the community will have a visual story depicting the emergence of the first local House of Worship in the country. The Battambang House of Worship is one of two local Baha'i Houses of Worship whose designs have been unveiled. Five local Baha'i Houses of Worship are due to be built in the coming years.

12.9256791

103.23171364274523

WASHINGTON

D.C.

United States

UN focuses on religion to prevent violence

WASHINGTON, United States — Religious leaders and faith-based organizations across the world are meeting to understand their role in preventing incitement to violence that could lead to atrocity crimes. "Religion can be key in countering this issue," said Gerald Filson, Director of Public Affairs of the Baha'i Community of Canada and Chair of the Canadian Interfaith Conversation. The Canadian Baha'i community has been vigorously engaged in a discourse in that country on the constructive role of religion in society. Dr. Filson represented the Baha'i community in the most recent of the regional meetings organized by the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect. The forum was held at the United States Institute of Peace in Washington D.C. on 29 February to 1 March and was one of five that are taking place all over the globe during the year to explore this important theme. In his contribution to the dialogue, Dr. Filson discussed the importance of educational programs for youth, which he explained cannot be overstated. "Youth are looking for positive messages and want to change the world for the better. Religious leaders need to give systematic focus on programs for this age group." Present at the D.C. meeting were UN Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide Adama Dieng, President of the U.S. Institute for Peace Nancy Lindborg, Assistant Secretary General and UN Ombudsman John Barkat, and Representative of the World Council of Churches Rudelmar Bueno De Faria. The diversity at the worldwide seminars has allowed for a rich exchange of experiences and the sharing of positive actions from an array of different groups. For instance, at the meeting held in Amman, Jordan, one presenter referred to the initiative of Ayatollah Abdol-Hamid Masoumi-Tehrani in Iran as "an example of a good fatwa". Participants at each of the conferences held thus far (see Editor's note below) developed regional strategies to prevent and counter incitement to discrimination, hostility, and violence. The strategies discussed in the D.C. meeting included mapping incitement issues and trends, developing and circulating alternative messages or counter-speech that can be spread, engaging those responsible for incitement in dialogue, building education programs, seeking political support, and strengthening inter-religious activities. "This series of meetings reflects in many ways the response called for in the Universal House of Justice's 2002 Message to Religious Leaders which asked, among other things, for religious leaders to speak out against religious extremism and accept the divine basis of all world religions," Dr. Filson said. He also noted how often speakers talked about the importance of the concepts of "one humanity" and "one God", and referred to unity, harmony of all religions, equality of women and men, and the importance of responding to hate with love. "Comments at the meeting also seemed to indicate that religious leadership in the Americas now appears able to undertake that fundamental reorientation that can set aside long-standing religious prejudice," Dr. Filson said. (Editor's note: On 1 April 2016, a change was made to paragraph 7 to clarify that only three of the five scheduled regional conferences have taken place.)

38.8950368

-77.0365427

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New websites reflect breadth of Baha'i communities worldwide

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A wave of official Baha'i websites, numbering over 40 and spanning the world, have emerged recently. In addition to the launch of new international sites, such as Bahai.org, the Baha'i Media Bank, and the official website of the Baha'i International Community, a number of new national websites have also appeared. Many national communities have been learning how to articulate their evolving understanding of the aims and activities of the Faith through the medium of the Web. Taking into consideration the social realities in their countries, many of these new sites also attempt to convey a vision of the betterment of society. In some countries, the launch of a national website has signaled the first official presence of the Baha'i community on the Web. Such has been the case in the Arab region, where new national websites have been launched in ten countries. Throughout the region, the launch of official Baha'i websites has been a historic development for the Baha'i community. In Tunisia, for example, the first official Baha'i website was launched in the region, and Baha'is have witnessed a growing number of opportunities to contribute to the progress of the nation in various forums since. The website has served as one avenue through which the community has shared with its fellow citizens how it is working with them for the construction of a just and peaceful society. Reflected in the efflorescence of these new sites is the breadth of countries and cultures in the Baha'i world. As each community develops further, its national website will continue to evolve. Official website of the Bahá’ís of TunisiaThe list of communities spans across many regions, from Myanmar to Kazakhstan, South Africa to France, Turkey to the Netherlands, and Colombia to the United States. A comprehensive list of national websites of the Bahá'í community can be found at http://www.bahai.org/national-communities/.

HAIFA

Israel

Joy Stevenson, 1919-2016

HAIFA, Israel — Joy Stevenson, former Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre, passed away today in Queanbeyan, Australia. She was 97 years old. The Universal House of Justice sent the following message to all National Spiritual Assemblies on 25 April.*  *  *We were greatly saddened to learn of the passing of Joy Stevenson, distinguished maidservant of Baha'u'llah, whose dedicated endeavours for the Cause of God spanning several decades were crowned by her serving for ten years as a Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre. Before taking on responsibilities connected with the worldwide promulgation and protection of the Faith, she made a distinctive contribution to the advancement of Baha'i communities in Australasia as a Counsellor and an Auxiliary Board member and as a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of Australia. To her gift of exceptional spiritual perception she added a remarkable ability to nurture the capacity of others, most especially of the youth. She will also long be remembered for her kindly and loving nature, as well as for her earnest enthusiasm in teaching. To her children and other members of her family we extend our heartfelt condolences. At the Sacred Threshold we will supplicate Baha'u'llah for the progress of her radiant soul throughout the worlds of God. We ask, too, that commemorative gatherings be convened in her honour in all Houses of Worship and in Baha'i communities everywhere. The Universal House of Justice

32.8191218

34.9983856

MADRID

Spain

"Woven by the Mercy of God": Conference highlights religion's role in social change

MADRID, Spain — A recent interfaith event, co-hosted by the Baha'i community of Spain, drew 200 participants to explore how religious communities can collectively work for the betterment of the world. Titled "Woven by the Mercy of God", the event was held on 17 April 2016 and organized by multiple religious groups, including the International Monastic Association for Interfaith Dialogue, the social and missionary action section of the national Catholic Church of Spain, Turkish House, and the Baha'i community. In the opening remarks, representatives of the Baha'i community identified the aims of the gathering as understanding the underlying unity among the religions of the world and exploring the role of religion in addressing complex issues facing humanity. "All religious traditions capture certain facets of the great mystery," said D. Jose Luis Navarro, Catholic priest and President of the International Monastic Association for Interfaith Dialogue, acknowledging the inherent unity of diverse religions. "Spain has a long tradition of interfaith activities," said Sergio Garcia, Director of the Baha'i Office of Public Affairs in Spain. However, he noted that a challenge often encountered in these fora is to raise the discussion of issues beyond the abstract. A goal of this event was to ground conversations in practical actions that could be taken by the various religious groups present. "Despite what we see done at times in the name of religion today, the truth is that religion has been the cause of great social progress in the past," said Mr. Garcia, "we can harness its power for the common good today as well." Participants at an interfaith conference titled "Interwoven by the Mercy of God" in Madrid.Participants explored the implications for the application of spiritual teachings to daily life and to the challenges facing their society. "Truth does not mean anything unless, in connection with justice, we try to apply it in the world," said Rabin Mario Stofenmacher of the Masorti Bet-El community. Attendees acknowledged that the participation of various actors in society is required to achieve social change. "Transformation of society requires building capacity at the levels of the individual, the institutions, and the community," said Miryam Sanz, representative of the Baha'i community of Spain. "This process of positive change, in light of the vision of Baha'u'llah, must lead to a just, unified, prosperous, and sustainable world, where everyone can contribute to the generation of knowledge about social development." Among the conclusions of the gathering was that religion must play a more significant role in combating prejudice and fanaticism. The religious communities represented identified this as an important first area of action.

40.4167047

-3.7035825

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Communities elect national governing councils

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Baha'i communities around the world have elected their national administrative bodies in a unique electoral process. Each year, during the Baha'i festival of Ridvan, delegates in virtually every country around the world gather together to elect the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of their country, a nine-member council responsible for guiding, coordinating, and stimulating the activities of the Baha'is in its jurisdiction. This year, national elections took place over two weekends: 23–24 April and 30 April–1 May. Baha'i elections are distinct for their lack of nomination and campaigning. The entire process is free of electioneering, nomination or canvassing. Electors vote by secret ballot at national conventions for the nine people they believe best suited for membership on the national governing council according to their conscience in a spirit of prayer, giving consideration to moral character and practical ability. Participants at the 2016 national convention in Tanzania.National conventions are also an occasion for delegates to consult and share insights about the progress of the Baha'i community in their country. "I have attended conventions before, but this was the first time as a delegate, and it really felt like I was attending for the first time," shared one participant at the national convention in South Africa. "It's a wonderful experience to listen to the friends' consultations and reflect together as a national community on how the House of Justice is guiding us. I am excited to take this all back home."

NEW YORK

United States

Global campaign on anniversary of arrest of Iranian Baha'i leaders

NEW YORK, United States — The Baha'i International Community has marked the 8th year anniversary of the unjust imprisonment of the seven former Baha'i leaders in Iran with a global campaign to call for their immediate release. The campaign theme "Enough! Release the Baha'i Seven" calls to attention the plight of these seven individuals, and, beyond them, the plight of Iran's Baha'is who have faced relentless and systematic persecution orchestrated by the Iranian regime. More background about the campaign can be found at a special section of the website of the Baha'i International Community at www.bic.org/8-years/enough-release-bahai-seven. The hashtag for the campaign is: #ReleaseBahai7Now.

40.7127281

-74.0060152

NEW YORK

United States

Reaction to meeting with a Baha'i exposes the truth

NEW YORK, United States — A storm of furious denunciation, in reaction to a simple meeting between two friends in a private home, has dramatically exposed the duplicity of the Iranian authorities who have repeatedly claimed that their treatment of Baha'i is not motivated by religious prejudice. The encounter which has generated the controversy was the visit of Faezeh Hashemi, daughter of former president of Iran Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, to the home of Fariba Kamalabadi, one of the seven former Baha'i leaders who have been in prison since 2008. Tens of senior clerics and political figures were quick to denounce Ms. Hashemi, with a Grand Ayatollah even calling for her prosecution because of her meeting with a Baha'i. Another high-ranking figure described "friendly relations" with Baha'i as "treason against Islam and the Revolution". "Consorting with Baha'is and friendship with them is against the teachings of Islam", said one Ayatollah whilst another described the Baha'is as "deviants" who must be "isolated" and asserted that meeting with a Baha'i is itself "an absolute religious deviation". The head of the judiciary as well as its first deputy have confirmed the possibility of Ms. Hashemi's prosecution which has been specifically demanded by many clerics as a lesson to the rest of society. Speaking in New York, Bani Dugal, principal representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations said: "What is surprising is the candour, the scale, and the high-profile of the regime's reaction. From a Grand Ayatollah, designated as a 'source of emulation', to senior religious and political figures as well as the executive organs of the government, consistent statements have now shown, beyond the shadow of doubt, that it is religious prejudice which motivates their treatment of the Baha'is. And in doing so, this collective reaction has laid bare the mendacity of the Iranian government's representatives in international human rights forums and has flatly contradicted their claims." Ms. Dugal added: "Let this be a moment of absolute clarity for the whole world". "Just imagine what it is like to be a Baha'i in Iran when even those who visit you in your home are publicly condemned in this way and are threatened with prosecution". The meeting between the two women came about during a five day period when Mrs. Kamalabadi was allowed to leave prison before being required to return for the completion of her ten-year sentence. Ms. Hashemi, who is also a former member of the Iranian parliament, spent six months in the same prison as Mrs. Kamalabadi in 2012 after being convicted of "spreading propaganda against the ruling system". The women who had not seen one another since Ms. Hashemi's release were renewing their friendship forged in prison. "Despite the furore of criticism that has greeted this humanitarian gesture, a simple interaction of two citizens, there have also been countless fearless individuals—human rights activists, journalists, academics, and ordinary citizens—who have defended the right of Baha'is to normal human relations in their own country" said Ms. Dugal. "But we hope more such voices will be raised so that the efforts aimed at the systematic isolation and 'othering' of the Baha'i community in Iran does not succeed." Ms. Dugal added: "The extraordinary threats and condemnation expressed by many clerics and authorities stand in contrast with the courageous statements and actions in recent years by several senior clerical figures and religious thinkers in Iran and beyond who have spoken out in favour of coexistence, tolerance, and equality for every citizen. We hope that the voice of conscience will lead the rest of the clerics to end their silence and to show that true religion cannot condone cold-hearted hatred, estrangement and apartheid."

40.7127281

-74.0060152

NORTE DEL CAUCA

Colombia

Ground broken for the Colombia House of Worship

NORTE DEL CAUCA, Colombia — Sunday marked the historic groundbreaking for the local Baha'i House of Worship for Norte del Cauca in Colombia. Some 700 people gathered on the temple land in the small village of Agua Azul, in the municipality of Villa Rica, including the Mayor, Mrs. Jenny Nair Gomez. Addressing the audience, Mrs. Nair Gomez explained how the House of Worship "resonates with the vision of spirituality that our forbears taught us". "For us Nortecaucanos, to have a House of Worship is a source of pride," she said. "We want above all to establish a spirit of brotherhood. We share this land, and this is our House of Worship. As neighbors, we draw inspiration from it to work together for the advancement of our village and region." The event comprised devotions and talks by dignitaries and representatives of Baha'i institutions. Marking the actual groundbreaking, a symbolic ceremony combined the soil brought by representatives of some 60 communities. The soil was deposited in a traditional clay vessel, called a "tinaja", typically used for water. The soil symbolizes freedom, as the land in this region was inhabited by former slaves—Afro-Colombians who left large plantations and settled in Norte del Cauca in the nineteenth century. The ceremony connected the groundbreaking of the temple with the history of the region. The House of Worship, whose design was unveiled in September 2014, is one of the first local Baha'i temples to be built, among four others announced by the Universal House of Justice in 2012. The House of Justice has described the local temple as "a focal point of worship, a nerve centre of community life" where the people of the community can gather "at daybreak for humble invocation before flowing out of its doors to engage in their daily pursuits". A joyous occasion for those who attended the historic groundbreaking ceremony.The grounds of the House of Worship will also include facilities for institutions and agencies dedicated to promoting community well-being, bringing together worship and service as two essential and inseparable elements of Baha'i life. There is a vibrant Baha'i community in Norte del Cauca that is working with the people of the region for the spiritual and material advancement of neighborhoods and villages in the area, and the Temple will naturally be an integral component of this process of community building that surrounds it.

4.63327795

-76.07990562706297

ISTANBUL

Turkey

Baha'i community participates in first World Humanitarian Summit

ISTANBUL, Turkey — With a rising tide of natural disasters and widespread civil unrest, the community of nations is realizing the critical need to work more closely to ensure effective responses to humanitarian crises. This realization led to the first-ever World Humanitarian Summit, organized by the United Nations and held in Istanbul, Turkey, on 23 and 24 May 2016. The summit brought together government leaders, as well as leaders from business, aid agencies, civil society, and faith-based organizations. "A record number of people—130 million—need aid to survive," said UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon during his opening remarks at the Summit. "More people have been forced from their homes than at any time since the end of the Second World War." A statement released by the Baha'i International Community (BIC) for the occasion, titled "Rising Together: Building the Capacity to Recover from Within", draws on the experience of the Baha'i community in recent decades with community-building and responses to natural disasters. The document highlights the ongoing Baha'i efforts at the grassroots, which are focused on developing capacity in individuals, communities, and institutions in a process of social transformation that greatly enhances a community's resilience. Commenting on the summit, Bani Dugal, representative of the BIC to the United Nations, said, "It seems critical at this juncture for the institutions and organizations engaged in disaster relief to learn how to effectively engage communities that are directly affected, to consult with them, plan with them, and learn with them." "Ensuring that development continues after the world's attention has moved on to the next challenge is critical to the long-term prosperity of communities affected by a disaster and depends on the participation of the populations that have been affected." "We are learning that the work of disaster relief can be unifying and bring out the strength of a community," said Steve Karnik, another representative of the BIC at the event. "Rather than viewing this work merely as a response to a natural disaster, we can understand these moments, tragic as they are, as the time for communities to marshal their material and moral resources and become stronger and more resilient for the future." Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, gives the opening remarks at the World Humanitarian Summit, held in Istanbul, Turkey, from 23-24 May. Photo: World Humanitarian Summit"Assuming ownership of their own development has become a foundational element of Baha'i communities' response to disasters and more broadly in social and economic development," said Mr. Karnik. "Our experience has emerged from efforts of Baha'i communities throughout the world that have suffered natural disasters. And we have learned that the stronger the pattern of collective life in a community, the greater its resilience." Mr. Ban's opening remarks drew attention to the importance of nations coming together to address meaningfully the challenges that the rising wave of disasters in the world presents for humanity. "A generation of young people feels that we have lost our way," he stated. "We are here to shape a different future. Today we declare: We are one humanity, with a shared responsibility. Let us resolve here and now not only to keep people alive, but to give people a chance at life in dignity." To advance a learning process on this subject and how it and like-minded organizations can play their part, the BIC will bring together various social actors next month in its New York office to reflect on the outcomes of the summit.

41.0091982

28.9662187

BRUSSELS

Belgium

Cooperation central to fighting intolerance, says BIC

BRUSSELS, Belgium — The urgent need to combat discrimination and hate crimes in Europe and the world at large calls for higher degrees of cooperation between civil society organizations, stated the Baha'i International Community (BIC) Brussels Office at a recent seminar, titled "Turning words into action to address anti-Semitism, intolerance and discrimination". Hosted by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the European Parliament Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup (ARDI) from 16 to 17 June 2016 in Brussels, the seminar was organized out of "an urgent need to help support and strengthen the existing good work undertaken by civil society coalitions and encourage the building of additional strong civil society inter-communal and interfaith networks to prevent and end all forms of hate crime and discrimination". Over sixty participants attended, including Members of the European Parliament and representatives of a range of civil society organizations. In her address at the seminar, Rachel Bayani, representative of the BIC, spoke about the need for coalitions to build stronger bridges of understanding through deep engagement in collaborative efforts to work for social harmony. "Coalitions should be encouraged to reach higher and higher levels of unity of thought and develop a common vision for the world we are trying to move towards," she stated. "We, members of civil society, regardless of the specific groups we represent, should not look merely at our own interests but should seek to further the interests of all members of society." Mrs. Bayani explained that such a shift requires difficult work ahead to build greater unity. "Without a sense of common vision, fragmented world views will continue to exist." Plans are under way for a series of events organized by OSCE with the aim of strengthening collaborative efforts among organizations of civil society to address intolerance and discrimination.

50.8465573

4.351697

VIENNA

Austria

European conferences highlight need for inclusive societies

VIENNA, Austria — With the rise in refugees entering Europe, greater attention is being given to building inclusive societies. This was one of the themes at two events last week: the Fundamental Rights Forum, held in Vienna from 20 to 23 June titled "Rights, Respect, Reality: the Europe of Values in Today's World", and the Council of Europe Conference of International NGOs, held in Strasbourg from 20 to 24 June. The Baha'i International Community (BIC) Brussels Office was represented at both events. In Vienna, the BIC joined some 700 other participants for the event, which was convened by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. State Ministers and Members of the European Commission and the European Parliament attended together with diverse stakeholders and civil society actors. The Forum provided for a dynamic and open conversation between all those present and focused on three themes: inclusion, refugee protection, and the digital age. The conference in Strasbourg saw international NGOs from forty-seven member countries of the Council of Europe discuss a range of topics, including social cohesion and migration. BIC representatives Tala Ram (left) and Collis Tahzib (right) at the Council of Europe Conference of International NGOS in Strasbourg.Commenting on both events, representative of the BIC Brussels Office, Rachel Bayani, stated that "These gatherings and the themes they addressed reflect the sincere concern across all sectors of society to ensure that those who have been living here and those who have newly arrived can have dignified lives and contribute to society." The gathering in Vienna was opened by the President of Austria and Patron of the Fundamental Rights Forum, Heinz Fischer. "The ongoing refugee crisis has brought the discourse on inclusion and equality in European societies to the forefront," he said. "Diversity enriches our democracies and facilitates our prosperity... It is a fact that xenophobia and fears of 'the other' are on the rise. But it is also true that we have never had more awareness, as well as robust laws and policies to fight discrimination and inequality, and to prosecute hate crimes". In his keynote address to the Vienna Forum, Frans Timmermans, First Vice President of the European Commission, emphasized the importance of building an inclusive society: "We can only succeed...if we succeed in including those who become our neighbors, getting to know them, helping them to express their potential, to build a future for themselves and their families and contribute to the economic and social life of the societies in which they live." In Strasbourg, Anna Rurka, President of the Conference of International NGOs pointed out that "Immigration has not caused the crisis in Europe—there is a crisis in the world at large, of which immigration into Europe is a symptom". At a workshop in the Fundamental Rights Forum, the BIC contribution focused on the need to strengthen our shared human identity: "European society today is essentially a sample of the World's population. To ensure the inclusion and participation of everyone, we need to nurture a sense of common identity and revisit some of our assumptions about human nature. "Differences between the peoples of the world are assumed to be pronounced, centuries-old, ineradicable, and productive of conflict. Any attempt to foster inclusion needs to revisit that assumption. Today's reality needs a conception of our identity that is wider, one which expands to include all of humanity. It means that we need to develop a strong sense of loyalty or responsibility towards all of humanity, rather than only towards those sharing similar characteristics. It means that institutions, communities, and individuals look at the interest of each member of the human family, rather than only their own".

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16.3725042

Five decades of guidance foster a growing youth movement

This summer marks fifty years since the Universal House of Justice first addressed a letter specifically to Baha'i youth around the world. Written in June 1966, the letter emphasized the centrality of the role of youth in bringing about a better world. Over the decades since, generations of young people have dedicated themselves to community-building endeavors and the advancement of their societies. In recent years, the youth conferences called for by the House of Justice in 2013 drew more than 80,000 young people together and sought to channel their energies toward constructive processes in society—through service to others, dedication to the well-being of the generations to come, living a coherent life, and forging new patterns of human interaction based on the principle of the oneness of humankind. Youth at a gathering in Vancouver, Canada in May 2016.In the years since the 114 conferences, this global movement has inspired gatherings across the planet, at all levels of society, where youth reflect together, consult, and plan how to serve their communities. Following the conferences, over 100,000 more youth have taken part in numerous encounters. Over the coming months, countless groups of young people around the world will come together to continue along this path. Their exertions are a reminder of the message of the House of Justice written to their counterparts fifty years ago, calling them to fields of service through which they can remake "the character of human society".

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BOGOTA

Colombia

Faiths' contribution to peace explored at Presidential Palace in Colombia

BOGOTA, Colombia — Approaching a highly anticipated, historic peace agreement in Colombia between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), President Juan Manuel Santos invited over 100 religious representatives to gather at the Presidential Palace on 4 July 2016. Given the unique role that religion plays in inspiring individuals and communities to work together for the common good, this event sought to explore the contributions religion can make to the peace process in Colombia, a country which has endured almost seven decades of violent civil conflict. Addressing the audience, President Santos spoke about the common aspiration among all religions for peace and harmony. Drawing on sacred scriptures, he quoted a passage from Baha'u'llah: "So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth." Speaking about the event, Ximena Osorio, a representative of the Colombian Baha’i community, said, “Our government considers religious communities to be important social actors. Religions have a reach that the government doesn’t have, for example in more remote regions and at the grassroots.” Deputy of the Interior Carmen Ines Vasquez speaks about the role religions can play in building peace in Colombia.This thought was acknowledged at the conference by government officials as well. “You are key in this process of achieving peace, as spiritual leaders of Colombia,” said Deputy Minister of the Interior Carmen Ines Vasquez, who, during her speech, reiterated the importance of working together to achieve a lasting peace through forgiveness and reconciliation. “In recent years there has been a growing interest in better understanding the role religious actors have in promoting the welfare of society,” said Mrs. Osorio during her comments at the event. “This trend has been driven by a growing awareness of the immense reservoir of potential that religious communities have to contribute to the advancement of many social causes.” The upcoming peace agreement seeks to bring to a close decades of conflict that have claimed approximately 220,000 lives and generated untold trauma in their wake. The peace talks, which started in 2012, are expected to come to fruition on 20 July 2016 with the signing of the agreement.

4.6533326

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DHAKA

Bangladesh

More voices from Islamic countries call for Iran to stop persecuting Baha'is

DHAKA, Bangladesh — A group of Bangladeshi lawyers have joined the increasing numbers of Muslim intellectuals, religious leaders, and professionals worldwide who have called for an end to the persecution of Baha'is in Iran. In a letter dated 29 May 2016, signed by a dozen "law professionals of Bangladesh", the group says it wishes to "express our condemnation to the government of Iran for the arrests of the Baha'is, including their seven leaders, only because of their religious belief and their imprisonment without any recourse to justice." They continue: "The fact that the Baha'is are a peaceful community and the largest minority of Iran and being subjected to a premeditated program of hostility especially by the government who have closed the doors of all socio-economic opportunities including jobs, education and security for them is contrary to the norms of any civilized society, and, absolutely unacceptable!" The group ends by calling for the immediate release of the seven imprisoned Baha'i leaders. They also urge Iran to stop its propaganda campaign against Baha'is. The 12 Bangladeshi lawyers join a growing number of Muslim religious leaders, scholars, and human rights activists around the world who have chosen to speak publicly against Iran's systematic persecution of Baha'is in recent years. In May, for example, five Iranian religious scholars published a statement decrying Iran's oppression of Baha'is and calling for tolerance towards those who believe differently. A letter signed by a dozen law professionals in Bangladesh calling for an end to the persecution of Baha’is in Iran.Abdolali Bazargan, Hasan Fereshtian, Mohsen Kadivar, Sedigheh Vasmaghi and Hasan Yousefi-Eshkevari noted that the "followers of the Baha'i religion have been oppressed because of their religion and beliefs for decades," according to a translation by Iran Press Watch. "Criticism and rejection of the beliefs of a sect or religion cannot justify violence and tyranny against its followers," said the five scholars, adding that "Islam supports freedom of religion and belief. The Qur'an has affirmed this important point in several verses." Other Muslim religious leaders have, likewise, begun to make similar calls for tolerance toward Baha'is. Ayatollah Tehrani's action, which included giving to the Baha'is of the world an illuminated work of calligraphy featuring a sentence from the writings of Baha'u'llah, calling for religious coexistence with Baha'is was quickly praised by many Muslim religious leaders. These included Dr. Ghaleb Bencheikh, a highly respected Muslim theologian and well-known in France for his promotion of interfaith activities who in 2014 condemned the persecution of Iran's Baha'is as being "in disdain of law" and "an intolerable scandal."

23.7861979

90.4026151

SANTIAGO

Chile

New website launched for Chile House of Worship

SANTIAGO, Chile — A new website for the Baha'i House of Worship in Santiago, Chile, has recently been launched. The site, which can be accessed at templo.bahai.cl, has been redesigned in the lead up to the Temple's inauguration in October of this year. The beauty of the Temple's design, which the architect, Siamak Hariri, has described as "embodied light", is captured in the imagery and graphics throughout the site. The new website highlights the central theme that underlies the purpose of Baha'i Houses of Worship: the union of worship and service. It also provides brief descriptions of how this theme is finding expression in activities that connect the Temple to the community that surrounds it. This Temple will serve the entire South American continent, and is the last of the continental Baha'i Houses of Worship to be built. Several of the first national and local Baha'i Temples are now in the process of being built in countries around the world. Interior page on Temple and Community.

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CHONGON

Ecuador

Songs to inspire social change

CHONGON, Ecuador — Near Ecuador's southwestern coast lies the town of Chongon. For the past four years, this small locality has brought together young adults from across Latin America for an innovative songwriting workshop. Participants all have an interest and talent in music as well as experience working with young people in Baha'i-inspired educational programs. The aim of the workshop is to produce music on themes relevant to the lives of adolescents, give voice to their noble sentiments, and reinforce standards to which they aspire. "In our work with adolescents, we often help them to reflect on the impact of negative social forces on their lives, including through some popular music. But these conversations can be disheartening if we are not able to offer any positive alternatives," said Monica Solano, one of the workshop organizers. In this connection, the series of gatherings in Chongon has generated music that provides young people with an alternative to the prevalent messages in much of popular music today. "With each workshop, we are trying more and more to reflect the voice of the youth," explained Katty Scoggin, another of the workshop organizers. "We aim to create lyrics and melodies touching on concepts that appeal to people's higher nature and that speak to the reality of the lives of youth at the same time." Participants at the most recent annual songwriting workshop in EcuadorSongs produced in this year's workshop address the theme of spiritual identity. The participants spent the first few days of the seminar speaking to adolescents and youth in Chongon about this topic, as well as studying some of the Baha'i Writings and texts from Baha'i-inspired educational programs that touch on this theme. Then they composed lyrics, hoping to reflect the aspirations, feelings, and experiences of these youth in songs that are relevant to their lives. The songs are shared with communities in the area through concerts, weekly sessions with high school students, visits with families, and in youth groups. They are also sung regularly in activities throughout south and central America. Randy, a 20-year-old from Chongon who, together with a group of her peers, has been engaged in Baha'i-inspired educational programs since she was in her early teens, said that the songs from earlier workshops reinforced many of the concepts that she learned in these programs. These in turn helped her to navigate certain decisions in her life. "In school, sometimes I would have a moment of doubt, thinking that maybe something is not so wrong because it doesn't hurt anyone," explained Randy. "But then I would remember what I had learned in the group, what my true identity is, and that would help me to reflect and make the best decision." For the workshop participants, the experience has yielded a richer understanding of adolescence and the realities that younger youth face in their communities and has heightened their commitment to the well-being of the next generation. And given that the process of writing songs involves exploring questions faced by young people within the context of their own societies, the participants' understanding of their own communities has also been enhanced. One of the most popular songs from previous workshops, "Pedrito" (Click here for mp3 download), is an upbeat and uplifting song about a youth who must decide what to do as he faces some moral dilemmas. Another of the songs from previous workshops with enduring popularity among the youth of Chongon is entitled "Mi meta es servir" ("My goal is to serve"). Its lyrics, translated into English below, appeal to the aspirations of youth all over the world to develop their talents and abilities while contributing to the betterment of the world: While I ponder my future I know I must discover my talents And making the right decisions If I try I will receive confirmations Many doors open When I serve others I know that my efforts bear fruit Because God will assist me Today I walk determined to serve Serve mankind The wind blows and urges me to press on And discover new ways of life Like a bird that wings its flight The sky is its greatest yearning Many doors open When I serve others I know that my attempts bear fruit Because God will assist me Today I walk determined to serve Serve mankind The annual songwriting workshops are part of a broader process of learning about how various means of communication can be used to bring about constructive change to communities—a change that takes into account both the spiritual and material dimensions of community life. (Editor's note: On 12 August, a change was made to the first paragraph to correct an error in the geographic location of Chongon.)

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SANA’A

Yemen

"We are all Baha’is"—Spirit of solidarity grows to unprecedented levels

SANA'A, Yemen — An extraordinary wave of support by organizations and individuals has kindled hope in the hearts of the Baha'is of Yemen in the wake of recent arrests there. It has also revealed the degree to which the motivation of Baha'is to build unity has resonated with so many in that country and across the region. One statement of support opened with this dramatic assertion of solidarity: "We are all Baha'is". On 10 August, armed, masked soldiers raided an educational gathering organized jointly by the Nida Foundation for Development as well as the Baha'i community of Yemen on the theme of moral empowerment and service. More than sixty participants were arrested, among them youth and children. Half were Baha'is and, currently, it is believed some fourteen remain in prison, including young mothers. Yet the raid has provoked an unprecedented response from citizens and civil society. Widespread coverage in the region's media—on television, on the Internet, and in print—has also highlighted the constructive endeavors of the Baha'i community and the baselessness and illogicality of the arrests. Two of the leading daily pan-Arab newspapers—Al-Arab and Al Quds Al-Arabi—covered the story extensively. Among the countless other news sources that have published related stories have been Al Morasel, Al Modon, Akhbar Al Khaleej, Gulf Eyes, Al Masdar, Mosnad News, Sadaa Adan, and Yemen Shabab. "Why arrest a group of peaceful Baha'is when the country is full of arms dealers, gangs, instigators of sedition, saboteurs, spies, and lurking terrorists? What courage is there in the arrest of a group of defenseless children and youth, when Yemen is full of thousands of murderers, thieves, criminals, gangs, and armed religious militias?" asks writer Sadiq Al-Qadi in an article on Al-Morasel News titled "For the Sake of Faith, Nation, and Humanity: Release the Baha'is". "How does the country benefit from persecuting a group that believes in obedience to one's country? What benefit in arresting people who regard work as worship and strive to serve the community?" continues the article. Messages have been circulating on social media calling for freedom for the Baha'is and appealing for the unity and understanding. The messages here are organized from left to right: "A society cannot advance if it continues to see an enemy in those who are different. It is blind prejudice and heresy towards others. It is a savagery committed by some who claim perfection, and see imperfection in others." "The Baha'is of Yemen are unjustly in prison!" "Say no to violence!"The Nida Foundation and the Baha'i community in Yemen have been involved in programs for the empowerment of youth so that they become oriented towards the social, moral, and intellectual development of society in practical ways. Both have also been concerned with raising the status of women and promoting the concept of equality and, in particular, the education of the girl child. Furthermore, the Nida Foundation has held discussions with tribal leaders on the profound implications of peace, reconciliation, and co-existence in that war-torn society. Support also has come from tribal leaders and fellow citizens of various backgrounds. For example, on the website of "The People of the Quran"—a Muslim religious order also called the Quranis, which has millions of adherents throughout the Arab region—the peaceful nature of the educational gathering was emphasized. The site stated that the event had been held "in an atmosphere of love and loyalty for Yemen; a program filled with enthusiasm, determination, and selflessness to serve the causes of peace and coexistence, community building, and unity among the children of their country. "We are all Baha'is!" begins their statement. "If you want to spread an ideology, persecute it! This sums up the human experience with any new way of thinking," the statement continues. Amnesty International's regional office has issued a statement condemning the government's actions. "The arbitrary arrests of Baha'i people for doing nothing more than attending a peaceful community event is completely unjustifiable. It is just the latest example of authorities' persecution of minority faiths," said Magdalena Mughrabi, the organization's Deputy Director of the Middle East and North Africa Program. Social media has also been alight with numerous messages and many hashtags have been set up, some in English and others in Arabic, by the supporters of Baha'is. #Free_Bahais; #Free_Bahai_Mothers; #Freedom_For_Bahais; and many similar hashtags have drawn attention to the arrests and highlighted the high character and aims of the Baha'is. Many statements of support have echoed similar themes, namely the relevance of the activities of the Baha'is for the betterment of Yemen in a time of greatest need for constructive effort. Indeed, so overwhelming and widespread has been the reaction of Yemeni society in support of the detainees that some have questioned who might be the real instigators of this incident. The Baha'i International Community Office at the UN in New York has also issued a statement providing details of the arrests. Perhaps one of the most powerful interventions to date has been made by Arwa Othman, until recently a Minister in the government of Yemen and now a human rights activist. She wrote, "National Security: What function do you have today? The country is in flames from the war and you have forgotten your duties and raided an educational gathering for the youth which had just the same goals as those espoused in the civics text books your children study at school. Her statement continued: "The children, youth, and women who you arrested are not an enemy on whom you need to declare war and imprison, in violation of their rights—especially children's rights. What evidence did you find in among the paper clippings of paper and crayons that a crime had been committed? Highlighting the contrast with the real challenges of the region, Ms. Othman stated: "What threat prompted you to enter a community building as if it was hosting a terrorist cell that was threatening public safety and the country's sovereignty? What military camps did you discover in the memories of each child, woman, and teenager? What sleeping cells of religious and sectarian sedition, working for the interest of the enemies of Yemen, did you find in those civilized surroundings? Finally, referring to the women who had been arrested, she wrote: "What has come over you that you have arrested them? Their children are suffering from bereavement and loss! Some of those children are infants! What has happened to you and to your honor, National Security?"

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NEW YORK

United States

BIC calls on President Rouhani to end systematic economic oppression

NEW YORK, United States — The Baha'i International Community has called on Iran's President, Dr Hassan Rouhani, to end the severe economic oppression imposed on the Baha'is in that country. The call is contained in a letter addressed to President Rouhani which shows how, since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the Baha'is in Iran have been the target of many ongoing acts of persecution, including a relentless campaign of economic strangulation which continues to the present day and shows no sign of improvement since his election. Read the letter in Persian here Read the letter in English here The letter signed by Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations, draws attention to the stark contradiction between statements espoused by the Iranian government regarding economic justice, equality for all and reducing unemployment on one hand, and the unrelenting efforts to impoverish a section of its own citizens on the other. The letter highlights the ways in which this economic campaign has been waged against the Baha'is as a deliberate policy: expulsion of employees from the public sector; severe limitations in the private sector; exclusion from a wide range of trades and professions under the offensive pretext of their being religiously "unclean"; confiscation of assets; harassment of businesses; and closure of shops. Even the setting of high amounts as bail when Baha'is are arbitrarily arrested has a terrible economic effect on the community. Beyond these, the letter also identifies the economic impact of the oppression on young Baha'is-artists, athletes and students. "The economic consequences resulting from the denial of opportunities to Baha'i youth to nourish their God-given talents are considerably more serious than many other forms of oppression", the letter states. Referring to this systematic discrimination as "economic apartheid", the letter pointedly asks the President: "How can the deliberate policy of a government be to impoverish a section of its own society? How will those who are responsible for the financial, social, and psychological consequences of these discriminations justify what they have done? What religious or civil standard allows for a calculated exclusion of a population from participation in the economic life of its own country? How can talk of building a just and progressive society continue in the midst of such systematic injustice?" The letter calls on President Rouhani to review urgently the situation of the Baha'is and to remedy the situation. Recently a moving and powerful documentary produced by a few individuals in Iran that gives a glimpse of the tremendous economic suffering of the Baha'is has attracted media attention. Amnesty International, USA has posted the documentary on its Middle East and North Africa Facebook page. A special report on the economic oppression of Iran's Baha'is published in 2015 by the Baha'i International Community can be viewed here. (Photo of Hassan Rouhani taken from World Economic Forum, at flickr) (Editor's note: on 8 September 2016 a correction was made to the ninth paragraph specifying that the documentary mentioned was posted on the Middle East and North Africa Facebook page of Amnesty International, USA.)

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BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Cambodian Temple progress inspires collective action

BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — It has been eight months since construction work started on the local Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang. Since the groundbreaking in November of last year and the completion of the earthworks in March, access roads have been built, ponds have been dug, and foundations laid. Construction of the central edifice has also begun and is well underway. Its design was unveiled on 17 July 2015. New video footage, showing progress of the construction process as well as a tree-planting project, is available here. Parallel to the construction work has been a growing number of activities that are contributing to the spiritual and material progress of communities in and around Battambang. Inspired by the House of Worship, activities have multiplied and a spirit of prayer and devotion has increasingly permeated the area. While building has progressed apace, participation of local inhabitants volunteering on the Temple land has demonstrated how the development of the House of Worship is a collective enterprise. Scores of adults, youth, and children have offered time and energy to contribute to projects on the Temple land. Most recently, on Monday 12 September, over 150 gathered for a tree-planting day. "It was a perfect day for the project," said Daravuth Keo, a representative of the Bahai community in Cambodia. "The soil was wet and ready for the plants. We started with prayers. Then we discussed the purpose and significance of the project. People formed into different teams. Some were designated to plant the trees, some to work in the nursery, and others to carry out various tasks." Aerial footage of the Temple siteOrange, avocado, papaya, lemon, and coconut trees were transplanted together with weeping willows, flame of the forest, chicken tail, foxtail, and yellow flower trees. Some 150 trees were planted that day alone. Young people have played an especially important part in the rising sense of community solidarity and the flowering of service endeavors in Battambang. "At the tree planting event, we talked with a large group of youth together, and they shared their reflections," explained Mr. Daravuth. "Many youth shared the idea that the community activities have provided them with a framework for service to society, helped build their capacity to provide moral education to children and younger youth, and taught them to build knowledge with others for the betterment of the world. "Some commented that this has helped them to stay away from drugs, to focus their energies on building unity, developing community, and walking with others on a path of service." The House of Worship in Battambang is expected to be completed by late 2017. It is one of five localities that were designated by the Universal House of Justice in 2012 to have a local Baha'i House of Worship.

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103.23171364274523

CALI

Colombia

Colombian Baha’is release open letter for peace

CALI, Colombia — The Baha’i community of Colombia has released an open letter appealing to all Colombians to seize an “historic opportunity” and work for the cause of peace. The letter comes in advance of the signing of a peace deal between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People’s Army (FARC-EP) on 26 September. The agreement is a major milestone on the path to peace in Colombia, which has suffered more than fifty years of violence in the world’s longest continuous armed conflict. The Baha’i community’s letter celebrates the achievements of the peace negotiations while acknowledging that the hard work of building a just and harmonious society lies ahead. “The eyes of the world are on Colombia,” says the statement. “May we arise to provide a model that will inspire and edify the hearts of our fellow human beings across the planet.” The open letter represents a recognition of the opportunity now opened to Colombians to forge new patterns of interaction and habits of thought. Over decades, the Colombian Baha’i community has been promoting a culture of peaceful and purposeful existence in many regions of the country through educational processes that seek to empower children, youth, and adults to promote the well-being and unity of their communities. “We have seen that small, voluntary acts of service can produce profound and lasting changes in families, children, and their neighborhoods," explained Ximena Osorio, a representative of the Colombian Baha’i community. "Each individual has the potential to become an active agent of social change and contribute to building a peaceful society.” Classes for the moral and intellectual development of youth have been a feature of the Baha’i community’s contribution to well-being and peace in Colombian society.The open letter also presents a caution: “Our peace is, in a word, fragile. It demands a level of integrity to rise above polarized debate, to revert to higher principles to which all societies aspire, to that common ground that is the foundation of consensus.” “But beyond words,” it continues, “participation may perhaps find its most powerful expression in deeds—in the flowering of countless acts of voluntary service across the country that imbue our society with a new spirit of hope for the future of Colombia.” The statement, which was published in Spanish, can be found here in English.

3.4517923

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WARSAW

Poland

Focus on what unites us, says BIC

WARSAW, Poland — In the face of growing racism and xenophobia, now is the time to focus on what unites us. This was one of the key points made by the Baha'i International Community (BIC) at a recent forum of European leaders in Warsaw, Poland, taking place from 19 to 30 September. For the second year in a row, the BIC participated in the Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) of the Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), a platform for 57 States to meet with a number of other OSCE agencies and civil society actors committed to human rights and democracy. Addressing the participants in a session on tolerance and non-discrimination, the BIC Brussels Representative said, "One of the most pressing questions...is how people of diverse backgrounds are to live together... and how to counter discrimination, racism, and xenophobia. Rachel Bayani from the Baha'i International Community Brussels Office"A lot of thinking and work goes into devising different strategies to counter specific forms of prejudice," she continued. "Of equal importance is the need to gain a much deeper understanding of what unites us." The BIC also commented that our readiness to articulate what constitutes our common humanity is what ultimately underlies our commitment to the elimination of prejudice. In its comments, the BIC encouraged the OSCE to explore "how educational processes can help nurture in this generation and generations to come a rich, robust and expansive sense of common identity and develop amongst European populations a strong loyalty with and responsibility towards all of humanity, rather than only towards those sharing similar social, cultural, national, or physical characteristics". In the session on "Fundamental freedoms, including freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief", the BIC contribution focused on coalition-building. In particular, it highlighted the growing tendency between a variety of social actors, whether religious or not, to speak up for each other and to build coalitions in order to promote freedom of religion and belief. Echoing this sentiment, United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Prof. Heiner Bielefeldt, praised the movement toward partnership and collaboration between various groups, noting in particular partnerships between "minority" and "majority" groups. "One sign of hope that was also alluded to in various speeches," he commented, "is the collaboration that we have experienced and that we see now developing between different organizations."

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Anticipation rises for Chile Temple inauguration

SANTIAGO, Chile — A surge of excitement and anticipation is palpable among the Baha'i community in Santiago and abroad as the inauguration of the last of the continental Baha'i Houses of Worship approaches. The President of Chile, Michelle Bachelet, is expected to attend the opening ceremony with other dignitaries. Growing media coverage has brought attention to the significance of this landmark, and recent articles (see here and here for examples) have highlighted the uniqueness of this sacred structure. Like all Baha'i Temples, its nine-sided design stands as a unifying symbol of the oneness of humankind. The firm behind the Temple's design, Hariri Pontarini Architects, has described it as "a Temple of light, expressing a faith of inclusion". An interior view of the Baha'i House of Worship for South America.A feature report, produced by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, offers a compelling exploration of the conception and design of the Temple. Meanwhile, the Baha'i community of Chile is preparing to welcome thousands of people for the inauguration, which will take place from 13-16 October. Representatives of indigenous populations and national Baha'i communities throughout Latin America, along with individuals and groups from nearly every other continent, will join the celebrations for the three days following the public opening. Live video coverage of the public opening ceremony will be provided on the Baha'i World News Service website on 13 October, 14:00 GMT, for approximately 90 minutes. People around the world will be able to watch this historic event, marking the dedication of the final continental Baha'i Temple. A video capturing the majesty of the superstructure is available here.

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ADDIS ABABA

Ethiopia

Hopeful BIC looks to future of Africa

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Africa has a great contribution to make to the future of world civilization, explains Prof. Techeste Ahderom, representative of the Baha'i International Community's (BIC) regional office in Africa. The BIC is an international non-governmental organization representing the worldwide Baha'i community. Established in 1948, the BIC has offices at the United Nations in New York and Geneva, as well as regional offices in Brussels, and most recently Jakarta and Addis Ababa. The establishment of the BIC Addis Ababa Office (BIC AAO) two years ago was a significant step forward in the Baha'i community's efforts to contribute to the development and prosperity of the African continent. The BIC AAO works in collaboration with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental entities operating on the African stage for the betterment of society. "We are interested in learning about those burning questions of the African people and our society as well as the issues that the African Union has formally identified as central to the progress of the continent," says Prof. Ahderom. "Institutions and governments are saying, 'We will silence all guns in Africa' and 'Without peace there can be no development'. But beyond these expressed hopes, we need to learn what these ideas mean in practice and how to achieve them." In this context, working with the African Union has been especially important for the BIC Office. The African Union is an organization which aims to achieve greater unity and solidarity between African countries and citizens. In January of 2015, the BIC was one of only fifteen faith-based organizations invited to contribute to the African Union's "Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want", a document approved by African leaders. Agenda 2063 provides a vision and strategy for the continent's future. It captures the widespread aspirations of the African people to end conflict, establish freedom to pass across borders, realize the rights of women and children, and ensure that prosperity is shared across all populations. BIC Representative Prof. Techeste Ahderom chairing a session at a policy dissemination event "Emerging partners in Africa's post-conflict recovery", held in Addis Ababa in June 2016."It was very interesting to note that what they intend to achieve in 50 years' time is very much aligned with the vision of the Baha'i Faith—no more wars, conflicts settled, peace in a full sense," says Prof. Ahderom. "Women will play their rightful role in society. And people will be able to travel across borders without problems." "There are understandably those who have a deep skepticism and are detractors, but we do not feel that this is the right attitude." One of the exciting developments of the last two years is that the BIC AAO has been able to work with a number of associates drawn from Baha'i communities across the continent as the Office has focused its energies on engaging in some of the most critical issues facing Africa now: the environment and climate change, inequalities between the materially rich and poor, the equality of women and men, financing for development, universal education, and of course peace and security. The BIC AAO believes that the long-term goals of Agenda 2063 can only be achieved with a commitment to the education of African children and youth. To this end, the Office has chosen to participate in venues dealing with this vital subject and was invited to address participants at the annual Day of the African Child event in June. "Children's education is a long-term strategy for the African continent. If at an early stage children can be taught the principles of the oneness of humanity and unity in diversity, if intellectual capacity can be cultivated with spiritual qualities, then we can build the future we want," stated the BIC in a presentation at the event. Commenting further on the topic, Prof. Ahderom says, "The long term goal of education and equality in Africa will be built one brick at a time. The short term goal is to end conflict, but the long term vision is to build. "Contributing to the constructive processes in Africa is what Baha'i communities are trying to do as well. We are also early in this process, still at the learning stages." Looking into the future, Prof. Ahderom is very optimistic. "Yes there are challenges to be sure, some of the most tremendous challenges. But Africa also has the resources, the ingenuity, and the heart not only to address them but to be a light to the rest of the world. "This is the BIC's vision for Africa."

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Dramatic footage captures Chile Temple developments

SANTIAGO, Chile — The final newsreel on the construction of the Baha'i House of Worship for South America has been released as the highly-anticipated dedication of the Temple approaches. The video highlights major developments over the past year and the growing connection of the community to the Temple and the activities of service and worship that it has inspired. The establishment of this Temple marks the final step in a more than century-long period during which continental Baha'i Houses of Worship have been built across the planet. Since July 2012, a series of videos has documented the construction process as well as developments in the surrounding community. A central theme of these newsreels has been the deep connection between the physical building of the House of Worship and spiritual forces that have been set in motion around it. An aerial view of the Baha'i House of Worship for South America and its surroundings at the foothills of the Andes mountains, in Santiago, ChileA growing awareness of the power of prayer has been among the most profound effects of the Temple on the surrounding community. This has been closely tied with a rising expression of commitment to the well-being of humanity through the multiplication of acts of meaningful service. The dedication ceremony for the Temple begins on Thursday 13 October at 14:00 GMT. Live video coverage of the public opening ceremony will be provided at that time on the Baha'i World News Service website for approximately 90 minutes, and a video recording will be available soon after. The Baha'i community of Chile has also begun to welcome people for the inaugural conference from 14 to 16 October. Representatives of indigenous populations and national Baha'i communities throughout Latin America, along with individuals and groups from nearly every other continent, are arriving to participate in the celebrations. Live video coverage of the conference can be viewed at http://dedicacion.templo.bahai.cl from Friday 14 October to Sunday 16 October.

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Century-long process about to culminate

SANTIAGO, Chile — The dedication of the Baha'i House of Worship taking place in Santiago, Chile, signifies a historic conclusion to a century-long process of raising up continental Baha'i Houses of Worship around the world. A House of Worship is a pivotal institution of Baha'i community life, ordained by Baha'u'llah as a sacred structure open to all and referred to as "Mashriqu'l-Adhkar", which translates to "Dawning Place of the Mention of God." The first Baha'i House of Worship was completed in 1908 in the city of Ishqabad in Russian Turkistan (now Ashgabat, Turkmenistan). The Mashriqu'l-Adhkar complex included the central Temple, a travellers' hospice, schools, medical and other facilities. After being expropriated by the Soviet authorities, the House of Worship was seriously damaged in an earthquake and eventually demolished in 1963. During the twentieth century, as the Baha'i community grew and spread globally, plans to build one House of Worship on each continent gradually began to unfold. These buildings became known as continental "Mother Temples". The first of these in Wilmette, USA, just north of Chicago, took some four decades to complete, opening in 1953. This beautiful, inventive building required the pioneering of new technology to bring the vision of its architect to fruition. Continental Houses of Worship in Kampala, Uganda, and Sydney, Australia, were both inaugurated in 1961. Another near Frankfurt, Germany, was dedicated in 1964. The "Mother Temple of Latin America" in Panama City, opened eight years later, and the "Mother Temple of the Pacific Islands" was completed in Apia, Samoa in 1984. These elegant buildings appear to blend naturally into their surrounding landscapes, encircled by beautiful gardens of rare and native plants, which enhance the beauty of the sites and their atmosphere of spirituality. The House of Worship for the Indian subcontinent in New Delhi, India, was completed in 1986. Inspired by the ancient symbol of the lotus flower, this monumental edifice has since become one of the world's most visited buildings, winning numerous architectural awards. Bahá’í Houses of WorshipThe very design of a Baha'i House of Worship, inviting everyone equally within its embrace, symbolizes the oneness of humankind. It is open to all people for silent prayer and meditation, as well as for regular devotional programs that consist of readings from the Sacred Writings of the world's religions. There are no rituals or ceremonies, no pulpits or sermons, nor is there collection of money. In essence, these Houses of Worship are a gift from the Baha'i community to humanity, funded entirely by the voluntary financial contributions of individual Baha'is all over the world. Although a Baha'i Temple is a universal place of worship, its purpose is not solely to provide a place for prayer and meditation. Rather, Houses of Worship are conceived of as institutions that will contribute to the social and economic progress of the populations for whom they are sanctuaries of peace and reflection. They are expressions of the deep connection between worship and service. Around each House of Worship, essential dependencies will in time emerge, dedicated to social, humanitarian, educational, and scientific pursuits. With the opening of the "Mother Temple of South America" in Santiago, the Baha'i community's process of constructing Houses of Worship at the continental level is completed. The process of building national and local Houses of Worship has now begun in several locations across the world where a vibrant Baha'i community life, characterized by worship and service, has emerged. In 2012, the Universal House of Justice drew attention to the day in 1912 when 'Abdu'l-Baha, with his own hands, broke the ground for the Mother Temple of the West: "'Abdu'l-Baha, standing before an audience several hundred strong, lifted a workman's axe and pierced the turf covering the Temple site at Grosse Pointe, north of Chicago. Those invited to break the ground with Him on that spring day came from diverse backgrounds-Norwegian, Indian, French, Japanese, Persian, indigenous American, to name but a few. It was as if the House of Worship, yet unbuilt, was fulfilling the wishes of the Master, expressed on the eve of the ceremony, for every such edifice: 'that humanity might find a place of meeting' and 'that the proclamation of the oneness of mankind shall go forth from its open courts of holiness'."

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Where spirit and form fuse: reflections on the architecture of the Chile Temple

SANTIAGO, Chile — Siamak Hariri is visibly moved as he surveys the Baha'i House of Worship here that has taken his Toronto-based architectural team, and hundreds of other contributors from all around the world, some 14 years to bring to completion. "You have a sense of what it will be because you've been so intimately involved in every detail," he says, "but it's so much more than our imaginations could have predicted." The architect has returned to Santiago to see the building for the first time in its finished state and is clearly delighted by the results which he says could not have been foreseen, despite the years of highly detailed design and preparation. "We looked at it on the computer a million times," he says, "but the effect of it - the way that the light is captured in the glass, how it comes through and just touches the marble - that was one of our biggest worries. Would that in fact happen? It was a theory, we tested it, and we hoped that it would. But now that we see it, it's way beyond what we could have imagined." The House of Worship, according to the architecture website ArchDaily, "defies rational thought and veers into the realm of the emotional." It is a masterpiece of state-of-the-art engineering which at once has the presence of an ancient monument and the appearance of a natural form that has sprung organically from its environs. "The temple appears otherworldly," wrote renowned Canadian author Noah Richler in the design magazine Azure, "yet of the mountainside and belonging to it." An interior view of the House of Worship. “The way that the light is captured in the glass, how it comes through and just touches the marble...it’s way beyond what we could have imagined,” explains the architect, Siamak Hariri.Now, as final preparations are made for the House of Worship's dedication ceremonies, the light-suffused building already possesses an ineffable spirit which will intensify in time as prayers, the reading of sacred scriptures and songs of worship resound through its auditorium. Mr. Hariri says that his team consciously knew the power a building can have to affect the soul, but the challenge to evoke such a sense was a profound one. "How do you make a single room that is a material structure but has a spiritual effect? It's a tough assignment." At the outset, it was decided that inspiration for the structure would not come from other buildings. "We were not going to look at architecture," he says. "New civilization and new expression means that we could not take too much from what is around us right now." Rather, the team went in search of a "feeling", hoping that visitors to the Temple would have the sense that they were gazing up at the heavens or turning towards the light, just as a plant moves to face the sun. "I think that you try for it but you cannot predict the deep emotional impact," Mr Hariri says. "We were very deliberate in aiming for that ethereal glow, the softness, the upward spiraling. But it has gone way beyond that." "For example, we were hoping for that kind of rawness of the surface concrete against the shimmering quality of the glass. But this is really magic, because of all the effects of light and material, and movement against those materials." Innovation and creativity It was in 2002 that the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Chile invited design proposals from architects for the last of the continental Baha'i Houses of Worship. Specifically it was to be "a nine-sided domed structure with nine entrances to symbolically welcome people from all directions of the earth for prayer and meditation." But Mr. Hariri - whose firm Hariri Pontarini Architects entered the competition - says the brief was also open enough to leave room for innovation and creativity. Inspiration for elements of the design were found in, among other things, the veins of a leaf, the interwoven threads of Japanese baskets, and the depiction of the softness of robes in oil paintings. A multidisciplinary team, from engineers to musicians, worked with the architects to conceive the structure. Three-dimensional modelling software called CATIA, used in aerospace engineering and rarely in architecture, was adopted to map out the design. "Thirteen years ago this was breathtakingly hard," says Mr Hariri. "We were the only ones in Canada who were working in CATIA." Writing at the time, Lisa Rochon — architecture critic for Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail — described the "structural ambitions of the project" as "formidable." Yet a building that at many points in its development seemed impossible to achieve, particularly in a location prone to earthquakes, has been magnificently realized. In its finished form, nine identical wing-like panels of translucent cast glass curve around to form the temple's dome. Natural light passes through the glass and floods the white marble interior while at night, light emanates softly from within the structure. To retain the luminescent quality of glass, while having the strength of stone, a team of artists, engineers, and architects had to create a material that was fit for purpose, structurally and visually. With the help of celebrated glass artist Jeff Goodman, known for his ornate blown glass chandeliers, a new approach to casting glass was tested in more than 200 different forms before being finalized. "Its innovative cast-glass skin is a victory for the architects, engineers, fabricators, and contractors who sweated every detail to make sure it could withstand the rigors of its mountainside location," Deborah Soonian Glenn wrote for the American monthly, Architectural Record. The innovations in technology and design are combined with traditional Chilean craftsmanship and materials. Every fixture, the seating and the lighting, has been treated with the same, loving attention to detail. "We were trying to get a candlelit, monastic feeling," says Mr. Hariri. "And it's even better than we imagined." Designing for future generations Standing now at the House of Worship for the first time since its completion, the architect, reflective and deeply moved, is thinking of the generations of visitors who will enter beneath its dome in centuries to come, seeking out its atmosphere of peace and tranquility, and finding in its message of hope and unity the inspiration to devote themselves to service to the community. "It's the culmination of a few years of work for us, but it's going to be there for a long time," he reflects. "Deep down I am thinking of my children and my grandchildren, and all of the millions of souls that this building might touch. I can imagine them in the temple." "I have never experienced this with a building before," he says, "not on the first day."

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Temple hailed as a transcendental ‘gift’ to Chile and the continent

SANTIAGO, Chile — On the outskirts of Santiago, in the foothills of the Andes, an extraordinary event took place today—the long-anticipated public dedication of the Baha’i House of Worship for South America and the last remaining continental Baha’i Temple to be constructed. Some 500 guests from Chile, including senior figures from the government and civil society, as well as representatives from South, Central, and North America and the Caribbean, and further afield, gathered for the first of a series of opening ceremonies this coming weekend that will bring more than 5,000 Baha’is from 110 countries beneath the House of Worship’s soaring dome. Opening the dedication ceremony, Felipe Duhart—secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Chile—said that the desire of the Baha’is is that “the House of Worship will become the heart and nerve centre for this whole community,” and “a refuge for prayer.” This role the House of Worship has as a “transcendental space that looks for unity and respect for all religious backgrounds” was emphasised by the representative of the President of Chile, Minister Secretary General Nicolás Eyzaguirre. “It is a Temple which makes our landscape a more beautiful one,” he added. “It will become an icon and it will remind us how important it is to find the unity between the city and nature.” The Temple is located outside of Santiago in Peñalolen, a commune whose name in the local language means “reunion of brothers.” As the site for the final continental Baha’i House of Worship, there could be no better name, and no better location. Minister Secretary General Nicolás Eyzaguirre, representative of the President of Chile, addresses visitors at the welcome reception.The governor of the Santiago Metropolitan Region (see editor's note below), Claudio Orrego, addressed the audience in moving terms. Echoing the Minister’s remarks, he explained that the Temple was seen as a “huge gift” to the citizens of Chile and beyond. “Today we see the beauty of its creation, together with all the divine and human forces that have made it possible,” Mr. Orrego said. “Santiago will be different from now on because of this beautiful temple that has been given to us…It doesn’t matter what religion we belong to, what creed we profess, our cities are full of the thirst for silence and to transcend.” The assembled guests—many of them attired in traditional costume—ascended the steps up the mountainside for the first devotional programme to be held in the House of Worship, in which welcoming remarks were made by the representative of the Universal House of Justice, Mrs. Antonella Demonte, and prayers and holy scriptures were recited and sung by a 60-strong choir made up of singers from Chile and Baha’i communities from the rest of the world. One prayer for unity was sung in the indigenous Mapuche language of Chile by Berta Blanco, who was among the first of her people to join the Baha’i community more than 40 years ago. “I think the Temple is going to bring a lot of changes for my family, for my community, for my people, for the tradition I come from,” she said. Representatives from Chile’s diverse religious communities also welcomed the establishment of the Temple in their city. Father Georges Abed of the Syrian Orthodox church has lived and worked in Santiago for some 26 years. He described the House of Worship as “a great gift for the society here, because it helps opens their minds and see the brotherhood of their citizens in the city.” Rabbi Daniel Zang, representing the Jewish community, said, “It’s part of our worship to pray together, that all mankind can come together and ask God for peace and brotherhood.” Today, the power of the Temple to unite humanity in all of its varied cultures and colours—as well its unique position between the city and the mountains—was on full display. (Editor's note: On 14 October 2016, a correction was made to paragraph 7 to reflect accurately Mr. Orrego's title as governor or "intendant" of the greater Santiago Metropolitan Area. On 15 October, corrections were made to the captions of photographs 10 and 12.)

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Day 1: Galvanic conference opening celebrates history and achievements

SANTIAGO, Chile — The vibrant color, music, and splendor of the cultures of South America’s diverse peoples were on display at the opening of a historic conference here. The audience, numbering nearly five thousand, was galvanized as it celebrated the opening of the Bahá’í Temple for South America. View a video capturing the joy and energy of those attending this momentous event. The stage of Santiago’s Movistar arena was the setting for the first session. Prayers, talks, musical performances, dances, and dramatic presentations—involving all ages—offered a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of South America and explored the relationship between the continent and the Baha’i Faith. Representing the Universal House of Justice, Mrs. Antonella Demonte read a special message addressed to the gathering at “a moment of high achievement for the Bahá’í world after much earnest striving”. “The process of raising up Bahá’í Houses of Worship, an endeavour whose origins can be traced back to the days of the Blessed Beauty Himself, has reached the point where today a Mother Temple stands upon the soil of every continent,” read the message. “A powerful spiritual beacon is now in full blaze at the foot of the Andes,” the message said, describing the House of Worship as a vital institution which embodies “two essential and inseparable aspects of Baha’i life: worship and service.” A representative of the Wayuu people of the Guajira region of Colombia addressed the audience on day 1 of the conference.The program that followed explored the history and unfoldment of the Baha’i Faith in South America. Among the first Baha’is to set foot on the continent to share their beliefs were three brave North-American women—Martha Root, Leonora Armstrong and May Maxwell. Their heroic efforts in the early decades of the twentieth century were vividly brought to life by three actors in a dramatic presentation, titled Las Rosas Blancas de America. The conference also explored the subsequent achievements of dynamic Baha’i communities that sprang up across the continent and the receptivity of pure-hearted people of that region from all backgrounds who responded to the message of Baha’u’llah. An especially moving theme of the day was the historical response of the indigenous peoples who “embraced the vision of Bahá’u’lláh and His Faith, recognizing the power of His Word to liberate the soul and transform society”. Speakers from among the indigenous representatives captivated the audience with their accounts. Music and artistic performances filled the arena with the joyful spirit of the occasion. Two more days remain of the conference, during which many further facets of the development of the Faith will be explored.

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Day 2: House of Worship rises from concept to reality

SANTIAGO, Chile — On the second day of the conference marking the opening of the final continental Baha'i House of Worship, participants reflected on the significance of the edifice and its role as a focal point for institutions that will emerge to serve the surrounding population. Claudio Orrego, the former Mayor of Penalolen and now governor of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, described how the Temple came to be situated at the foothills of the Andes. Expressing his gratitude on behalf of the people of Santiago, he described the Temple's presence there as a "gift of love". The morning session also paid tribute to the hundreds of people who had contributed to raising the House of Worship. Juan Carlos Quiroz spoke on behalf of all of the workers on the project. He told the crowd that many of those who had worked on the construction of the Temple were not present, including young volunteers from a variety of countries who, at times, took on the lion's share of the heavy work. He acknowledged the immense, collective endeavor that had given rise to the sacred edifice now being inaugurated. Among the presentations in the day was a moving historical account of Baha'i Houses of Worship that helped to put into context the occasion being celebrated. Ximena Osorio, a Colombian Baha'i, spoke of the importance of temples in every religious dispensation and highlighted a unique concept that is associated with Baha'i Houses of Worship: A group of around 450 participants approaches the Temple."In the Baha'i community devotion must find expression in action," she explained. "Prayer, though essential for the inner life of the human being, should lead to actions that give outer expression to inner transformation." Drawing attention to the very first Baha'i House of Worship—built in Ishqabad (now Ashgabat, Turkmenistan) in 1908—she described how, in its very fiber, the concepts of service and worship were interwoven. That first House of Worship included buildings that served as a travelers' hospice, a school, and medical facility. The education of girls became a priority of the flourishing Baha'i community of the time. Also addressing the audience, the architect of the Temple, Siamak Hariri, provided a fascinating glimpse into the design process that resulted in the unique structure of the House of Worship in Santiago. His talk honored the many people on the construction team who, in a variety of roles, brought this collaborative effort to such a successful conclusion, and he voiced the architecture team's deep sense of gratitude for the privilege of playing a role in this magnificent project. "For this, we are immensely thankful," he said. First visits to the Temple Throughout the afternoon, groups of around 450 participants traveled in buses for their first visit to the House of Worship and a special devotional program. Often overcome with emotion, joy and gratitude were visible on their beaming faces as they approached the Temple, some through rainfall that added a sense of wonderment to the scene. Ernestina Cahuaza Chimpuqai, an indigenous Baha'i from Peru, embraced the Faith of Baha'u'llah more than 30 years ago. She flew for the first time in her life to participate in the inauguration of the House of Worship. "I am very happy and very grateful," she explained, speaking in her native tongue, "because of the blessing that God has given me to visit the Temple." Celebrating the work of the global Baha'i community For those remaining at the main conference venue while Temple visits took place, representatives of national Baha’i communities presented how they combine a life of service with worship, as well as insights into their own history and aspects of their culture. Some of the presentations focused on endeavors of social action and educational initiatives, including examples from various countries in the Americas. Participants, for instance, highlighted a production of a television series in Ecuador that explores aspects of family life in a neighborhood. The SAT (Sistema Aprendizaje Tutorial) program—which has received government accreditation and recognition by the governments of Colombia and Honduras and provides secondary education to rural youth—was also presented. Social and economic development initiatives in Chile itself were among the other examples discussed, including one of eight Baha’i-inspired radio stations in South America—named Radio Baha’i—which has worked closely with the indigenous Mapuche people.

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SANTIAGO

Chile

Day 3: Looking to the future

SANTIAGO, Chile — As the sun rose behind the Andes, more than 250 people representing various indigenous populations of South America entered the newly-dedicated continental Baha'i Temple. The melodies of the choir permeated that sacred space, as Baha'i scriptures in Spanish and the Mapuche language, resounded through the Temple's auditorium, touching the hearts of those present. This moving scene ushered in the final day of the special inauguration ceremonies that have unfolded since Thursday. Speaking after the dawn visit, Paicavi Painemal Morales, an indigenous Baha'i from Temuko in Chile explained that "As Mapuches, we pray in many different places—we are very connected to the land and to nature. "When we pray," he continued, "we pray directly to God and so for this reason the Temple is very special for us—and it is for this reason that many Mapuche are Baha'is." Jesus Angel Gudino was among the first of Argentina's Guarani people to accept the Baha'i teachings in the early 1970s. "I am very happy to be here," said Mr. Gudino, "because this event shows the unity of everything—the cultures, the people: all is put into practice." "It was impossible for me to imagine such a great number of people," he said. "We were so small when I first became a Baha'i." A member of the Wayuu from the north of Colombia, Carlos Javier Epiayu Herrera, was determined to tell his family and friends back home everything that he had been experiencing over the past several days. "All the knowledge that we acquire here we will apply in our country and we will share it." A special program was held early Sunday morning for representatives of indigenous populations in South America.This special dawn visit to the Temple on the final day reflected the significance given to the indigenous peoples' contribution to the advancement of civilization—a theme that was present throughout the conference and highlighted on day 3. A presentation by Baha'is from the northern region of Brazil drew attention to the love expressed in the Baha'i writings for indigenous populations. Baha'i sacred scriptures place particular emphasis on their capacity to illumine the world. "Their awakening is a decisive moment in the life of the Faith and the life of these peoples," said the Brazilian delegation. As in the day before, groups of up to 500 people from among the nearly five thousand conference participants continued to make their first visits to the House of Worship. Further reflections on service Inspired by the vision of the Temple as an institution that weds together worship of God and service to humanity, representatives of national Baha'i communities from around the continent and further afield continued to share their experiences with social action. In particular, a number of presentations were made about transformative educational processes initiated by Baha'i communities or Baha'i-inspired organizations. From small grassroots projects to larger, well-established institutions, examples were presented from such countries as Brazil, Suriname, Panama, and Bolivia. A delegation from northern Brazil described how a program for 11-14 year olds was offered to a school in response to lack of spiritual values in the national school curriculum. A video showed the director of the school expressing gratitude for this program, which reaches around half of the pupils. "We are building a new history here," she said. Gustavo Ortega from the Nur University in Bolivia, which is also working to apply Baha'i principles to both its academic curriculum and administrative structures, told the conference, "We started a process that has changed education in our country." The University has become recognized for its commitment to fairness, gender equality, and the generation and application of knowledge. Individuals also shared the benefit of learning from other communities around the continent and applying what they discovered to their own activities. Preparing for the future The final session of the conference lifted and directed the vision of participants toward the months and years ahead. In a keynote address, a former member of the Universal House of Justice, Dr. Farzam Arbab emphasized the great role that indigenous populations have in the “process of the spiritualization of the peoples and the nations". Dr. Arbab asked those present to look toward the future: "What will be the fruits that our efforts produce under the influence of the spiritual forces that now emanate from this House of Worship?" Calling on those present to carry back with them to their countries the spirit of the conference, representative of the Universal House of Justice, Antonella Demonte, in the closing moments, drew the attention of the conference to the power of unity and love that had permeated the gathering of nearly five thousand people—what she described as "collective spirit". "How much more powerful is collective action!" she proclaimed. (Editor's note: Additional photographs were added to the story on 18 October 2016.)

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QUITO

Ecuador

Mass urbanization demands reimagining community life, says BIC

QUITO, Ecuador — We need a fundamental reimagining of collective living, says the Baha'i International Community (BIC) in a statement released this week, titled "New Patterns of Community Life in an Urbanizing World". The statement addresses the Habitat III conference organized by the United Nations in Quito, which ended yesterday. This was the third UN conference on sustainable urban development, the first having taken place in Vancouver in 1976. In the past decade, for the first time in history, the number of human beings living in urban settings has surpassed the 50% mark. This shift from rural to urban settlements is one of the most significant issues the world faces today, with profound social, humanitarian, and ecological implications. "Urbanization in its current incarnation is not a process that can continue indefinitely," states the BIC in the document. "Large-scale migration to urban centers has, in many cases, led to social fragmentation, the depletion of limited ecological resources, and profound feelings of isolation and despair." The statement proposes that to deal with the formidable challenges arising from the accelerating mass urban-rural migrations across the planet "will require conceptions of life in rural and urban settings to be thoroughly reimagined, drawing on the accumulated knowledge of the past, the scientific advances of the present, and a compelling vision of the future". To navigate a path forward, argues the BIC, will require "sustained investigation for the foreseeable future". The document highlights certain core issues that merit attention. "Prominent among these is an explicit concern with reviving the concept of community," it states. "If community is to further the progress of society in its own right—complementing the roles played by individuals and social institutions—a much more expansive conception of community life must be actively embraced. New patterns of action and interaction will have to be built, and new forms of relationship and association constructed." The document addresses a range of issues, including the need to integrate groups and populations that have traditionally been marginalized, to open spaces for the participation of people at different levels of decision-making, and to help foster a sense of common identity and united vision. Drawing on the experience of the worldwide Baha'i community, the BIC also emphasizes the vital role of education in creating prosperous and healthy human settlements, particularly as a way to enable young people to "translate high ideals into practical realities and make a meaningful contribution to the fortunes of humanity". Habitat III, formally known as the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development, is part of an effort to reinvigorate global political commitment to the sustainable development of towns, cities, and rural settlements, according to the UN. The conference involved as many as 45,000 people—including government leaders, UN officials, and civil society representatives. "Among the main ideas that the Baha'i International Community hoped to bring to the discourse at Habitat III is that efforts to create a greater sense of community among individuals, whether in highly urbanized environments or rural villages, is the key to creating an urban agenda that promotes genuine prosperity and human happiness," said Serik Tokbolat, a representative of the BIC to the United Nations. "And this requires serious consideration of the moral and spiritual dimensions of human life." Conceived in this way, Mr. Tokbolat explained, efforts to foster a sense of community can help national governments, local authorities, and civil society organizations in their search for ways to improve the nature of community life in both urban and rural settings.

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NEW YORK

United States

Baha’i murdered in Iran—victim of religious hatred

NEW YORK, United States — In an appalling act of violence, a Baha’i has been stabbed to death by two men who admitted they attacked him because of his religious beliefs. Farhang Amiri, 63, was murdered outside his home on 26 September 2016 in the city of Yazd, Iran, where he and his family have long resided. On the previous night, two young men visited the residence of Mr. Amiri under the pretense of wanting to purchase his van. Mr. Amiri was not home. His son, who answered the door, was surprised and indicated that he was not aware of any plans by his father to sell the vehicle. The two men, however, insisted. When he asked for their contact information, they made excuses and left. On the evening of the murder, the same two individuals returned, met with Mr. Amiri himself, and violently attacked him outside his residence. Hearing his screams, a family member, who was then joined by several other people, found him severely injured with multiple stab wounds in the chest. Shortly after the attack, local shopkeepers apprehended a man who was running away from the scene and delivered him to the police. The second culprit was also captured. While being questioned by the police in front of witnesses, the two suspects admitted to killing Mr. Amiri with a knife they had brought with them for this purpose. When asked about their motive, one of the suspects answered that he carried out the murder because he knew Mr. Amiri was a Baha’i. A photograph of Farhang Amiri placed atop a floral bouquet at his funeral“Such a heinous act is a consequence of a longstanding, systematic effort by the Iranian authorities to encourage hatred and bigotry against Baha’is,” said Ms. Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations. “Just in the city of Yazd alone, there have been multiple acts of persecution over the past few years, including dozens of wrongful arrests and imprisonments as well as scores of raids on Baha'i residences and businesses,” said Ms. Dugal. This is not the first incident of persecution against Mr. Amiri’s family. His children had their businesses and residences searched last year by government agents who confiscated laptops, telephones, and other items. Further, in early August of this year, another Baha’i in Yazd was told, while being interrogated by government agents, that they knew of people in the city who had expressed intentions to kill Baha'is. “The Baha’i International Community is outraged at the murder of Mr. Amiri,” said Ms. Dugal. “It is deeply concerned about the ongoing and relentless persecution of the Baha’is in Iran that serves as a backdrop to such acts of violence.” She noted that there has been an increase in hate propaganda against Baha’is in the official Iranian media. In a new report, the BIC says more than 20,000 such items have been disseminated over the last three years. Ms. Dugal commented that Mr. Amiri, who worked as a driver and also a farmer, lived a modest and honorable life. “He was known among his neighbours for his kindness, gentleness, wisdom, and humility,” she said. "He had no quarrel with anyone. His family environment was marked by love and tenderness, and he encouraged his four children to be honest and trustworthy.” Ms. Dugal further stated that the Iranian government must ensure that the cause of justice is uninterrupted by considerations of religious affiliation. “Open-minded Iranians, together with the international community, are now eager to see how justice will be carried out and wonder when the incitement and the prevailing atmosphere that make possible such heinous deeds will come to an end,” said Ms. Dugal. (Editor's note: Additional photographs were added to the story on 27 October 2016.)

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BARCELONA

Spain

In Spain, quest for social progress draws on science and religion

BARCELONA, Spain — The Baha’i community of Spain has been exploring how to bring together different sectors of society—government, NGOs, academia, the private sector, and faith-based organizations—to collaborate for social progress. At the heart of this endeavor has been a conviction that, when oriented toward the betterment of society, a dialogue that engages science and religion can give rise to new and important insights necessary to navigate a rapidly changing world. Their exploration has yielded a number of developments over the past several years. This month, a new publication titled Gobernanza y religión (Governance and Religion) has been released, compiling contributions from leaders of thought in Spain on the transition toward more just and peaceful forms of social organization. Edited by the Office of Public Affairs of the Baha’i community of Spain, the publication considers the contribution of religion to social organization in general and to governance in particular. The publication is one of the outcomes of a conference held last year in Barcelona. “There is a growing consensus here that we need new models of social organization to address the complex realities of a world confronted by an increasing number of challenges, whether environmental, social, or structural,” explains Sergio Garcia, Director of the Baha’i Office of Public Affairs and editor of the new publication. “One dimension of this is to discover new forms of governance. We believe to make such a leap requires us to look at all the systems humanity has, and religion is one of the most powerful. “Religion is one of the two systems of knowledge and practice, together with science, that has propelled civilization. What we are learning is to draw on the insights of religion and its constructive contributions to navigate the new realities we face.” A panel presentation during a conference on religion and governance held in Barcelona, Spain, in March 2015.The publication covers a breadth of relevant subjects, exploring both theoretical and practical aspects of religion’s contributions to social organization. Among the themes it highlights is the historical role religion has played in inspiring new modes and patterns of human interaction and conceptions of governance. Some of the authors seek in their chapters to identify principles, approaches, and mechanisms for better and more effective forms of governance, drawing on experiences in which religion has played a role in decision-making, conflict resolution, and social action. The belief that religion would disappear as societies become more modernized has proven inaccurate, argues the publication. While in some societies the influence of religion in the public sphere has been controlled and relegated to the private life of the individual, it has continued to exert a profound influence on the development of thought and behavior at the individual and collective levels. This influence on hearts and minds should not be underestimated. Gobernanza y religión is the latest publication in the Serie Gobernanza (Governance Series) and is one the outcomes of a conference co-sponsored by the Baha’i Office of Public Affairs in Spain, as well as the University of Barcelona, UNESCO’s Association for Interreligious Dialogue, and the Government of Catalonia’s General Directorate of Religious Affairs. “Many interfaith groups and grassroots organizations in Spain have been thinking about these ideas already,” explains Dr. Garcia. “With these conferences, we wanted to bring those experiences into a broader discussion with social actors from government, civil society, academia, and the private sector to better understand the practical problems of governance and explore the possibilities for new models.” Future conferences will explore other aspects of governance, including political economy and collective security. The first publication in this series, La gobernanza y sus enfoques (Approaches to governance), was released earlier this year".

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BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Courageous cleric divides painting, promotes unity

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — In recent years, individuals and groups from within and outside of Iran have raised the call for justice, human rights, and a culture of inclusion in the country. Though more and more voices are joining this chorus, it is still rare to see any vocal support from among Iran's ecclesiastical class. On occasions when a clerical figure in Iran does speak out in support of the rights of citizens and minorities, it can inspire hope in countless hearts. Against this backdrop, Ayatollah Abdol-Hamid Masoumi-Tehrani, a high-ranking religious cleric in Iran who is also a calligrapher and artist, has stood out for his public dedication to unity. His contributions to social harmony in Iran have drawn attention and acclaim in many parts of the world. Recently Ayatollah Tehrani has painted a new work which he has divided into eight parts corresponding with eight religious groups in the country. He has dedicated parts of the painting to Zoroastrians, Jews, Christians, Mandaeans, Yarsanians, Baha'is, and Sunni and Shia Muslims in the country, all of whom he considers "essential aspects of Iran's national culture as well as the entire region's spiritual and religious reservoir." A section of artwork by Ayatollah Tehrani, which he has dedicated to the Baha’i community of Iran."Our national identity would be incomplete without each one of them," he writes in a statement on his website. The dividing of his painting symbolizes the fragmentation of the diverse populations that constitute Iran's citizenry-a fragmentation he attributes to religious fanaticism and claims of privileged access to truth. Explaining the symbolism of dividing his painting, he states: "As the body politic of human society would suffer because of estrangements and separations, likewise each section of this piece would be incomplete if it remains unaccompanied by the other sections. This piece is only complete when all the parts are put together." In the past, Ayatollah Tehrani has made other gestures of reconciliation and brotherhood toward religious minorities. In April 2014, for example, he gifted a calligraphic rendering of a sacred verse from the Baha'i writings to the Baha'is of the world. His action at once acknowledged the persecution of Iran's largest religious minority and expressed a wish that the Baha'is of Iran should be allowed their rightful place beside their fellow citizens, working for the prosperity and happiness of their country. His courageous actions as a member of Iran's religious clergy have resonated with many inside and outside of the borders of that country and inspired a number of his counterparts from other Muslim denominations as well as other religions around the world to voice their support for his actions towards peaceful religious coexistence. (See side bar for related stories) With this latest action, Ayatollah Tehrani captures the yearning of many of his fellow citizens for "a future where this land does not only belong to a certain religion, class, ethnicity, or ideology but belongs, without discrimination, to all Iranians, regardless of religion, attitude, or gender".

NEW YORK

United States

Forced closure of shops in Iran on an unprecedented scale

NEW YORK, United States — Over one hundred Baha'i-owned businesses in cities across Iran, including Sari, Ghaemshahr, and Bandar Abbas, were sealed by Iranian authorities after they were temporarily closed to observe Baha'i Holy days on 1 and 2 November. This action took place despite recent statements made by the UN Special Rapporteur of Freedom of Religion and Belief, the UN Special Rapporteur on Iran, prominent Iranian lawyers (e.g. Dr. Abdol-Karim Lahidji and Dr. Shirin Ebadi), and an appeal from the Baha'i International Community to the President of Iran for such economic suppression to cease. Example of seal used by the Iranian authorities to prevent Baha'is from reopening their shops after closing them in observance of a Baha'i Holy day.A recent letter from the Baha'i International Community to the President of Iran explains how sealing Baha'i businesses is one of the many tactics employed by the authorities in their economic apartheid against the Baha'is in Iran. Other means include categorically denying at least three generations of Baha'is access to governmental jobs, excluding them from working in businesses partly or wholly under the direction of the government, delaying or preventing them from acquiring private job licenses, and depriving them from access to formal university education. “The sealing of so many businesses demonstrates the emptiness of assurances by the Iranian government that the Baha'i community is not discriminated against,” said Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community. “We call upon the international community to denounce these unjust actions and exhort the Iranian government to take immediate, visible, and substantive measures to reverse the situation,” she added.

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BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

House of Worship inspires children and youth to plant for the future

BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — For months now, scores of volunteers from nearby communities in Battambang have gathered regularly to work on the landscaping of the local Baha'i House of Worship being constructed there. This spirit of collective service has become contagious. One sign of its spreading influence has been a welling up of enthusiasm and a wish among children to have their share in this historic development. Neighboring communities have responded to this growing enthusiasm by organizing gardening projects at the Temple site open to children, youth, and adults of all ages. In Battambang, a spirit of collective service has become contagious. One sign of its spreading influence has been a welling up of enthusiasm and a wish among children to have their share in this historic development.Hundreds of volunteers have participated in the projects. They gather for prayers in the early morning and then start off a full day of gardening, planting frangipani trees and ixora shrubs on the land surrounding the rising central edifice. Some 900 plants have been transplanted onto the site. "Now we can see the ixora and frangipanis smiling to the sunlight," said one participant, reflecting on his experience at the most recent collective gardening event. He added that he was happy to be able to help make the grounds of the Temple beautiful so others would be able to enjoy the gardens when visiting in the future. His sentiments are widespread. Battambang is one of the first five localities worldwide that have been selected by the Universal House of Justice for the construction of a local Baha'i House of Worship. The Temple is expected to be completed by late 2017.

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UNITED NATIONS

United States

Iran's human rights failures condemned by world community

UNITED NATIONS, United States — The UN yesterday expressed serious concerns about "severe limits" on the right to freedom of religion or belief in Iran, and specifically about the ongoing persecution of Iranian Baha'is. The rebuke—the 29th such censure since 1985—came in an annual resolution on human rights in Iran, approved by a vote of 85 to 35 with 63 abstentions by the General Assembly's Third Committee. The vote followed a September report by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon that said Baha'is "are the most severely persecuted religious minority" in Iran. Further, a new report on the persecution of Baha'is in Iran was released by the Baha'i International Community on 25 October. Yesterday's resolution also expressed concern over Iran's "alarmingly high" use of the death penalty, its "widespread and systematic use of arbitrary detention," and the persecution of political opponents, human rights defenders, journalists, and women's and minority rights activists. "While Iran has sought to normalize its relations with the world, the passage of this resolution shows that the international community still feels that the human rights situation in the country remains an issue and requires serious attention," said Bani Dugal, the Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community to the UN. "Certainly, in the case of Iranian Baha'is, things have changed for the worse. Among other things, the government has shifted its tactics to more sophisticated and less quantifiable forms of persecution, social, economic, and educational in nature, with the aim of making it harder to document cases of persecution. "Economic strangulation is also spreading further. Just two weeks ago, for example, the government shut down more than 100 Baha'i shops throughout the country after their owners had closed to observe Baha'i holy days, reflecting one element of severe economic discrimination - as documented in a recent letter to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani," said Ms. Dugal. She also noted that the government continues to arrest and imprison Baha'is and that young Baha'is are blocked from attending university. "Overall, the government's program against Baha'is amounts to a highly coordinated effort to destroy this community as a viable entity," she said. The resolution also called on Iran to cooperate fully with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran, whose repeated requests to visit Iran have been denied. Ahmed Shaheed, who was the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran until 31 October, issued a report in September that took note of an intense anti-Baha'i propaganda campaign waged by the government, saying also that Baha'is continue to be imprisoned and discriminated against economically. The resolution was introduced by Canada and had 41 co-sponsors.

JAKARTA

Indonesia

Exploring religion’s contribution to peace in Southeast Asia

JAKARTA, Indonesia — Religion has a unique contribution to make to social progress and the realization of peace. This is one of the ideas that the Baha’i International Community (BIC) Regional Office in Jakarta has been exploring since its establishment two years ago. “Religion and spirituality are deeply rooted in the hearts of Southeast Asian people,” explains Mr. Chong Ming Hwee, representative of the BIC Regional Office in Jakarta. “Featuring prominently in our daily lives, religious principles and values permeate our consciousness, thoughts, decisions, and actions. “There is a need for us to re-examine religion’s place in the modern world and to arrive collectively at new insights about the contributions it can make to the advancement of the whole of society,” Mr. Chong continues. The creation of the BIC Jakarta Office in 2014, based in Indonesia, marked a milestone in the Baha’i community’s efforts to contribute to thought about social and spiritual advancement in Southeast Asia.In this connection, the BIC Jakarta Office has been contributing to a dialogue about how spiritual teachings can foster consciousness of the oneness of humankind by building a sense of human identity that transcends religious, ethnic, and national divides. At the heart of this endeavor is a belief that religion—as a system of knowledge that provides unique insight into human nature and society—has a power to tap human agency and inspire commitment to action in individuals and whole populations. “Perhaps more than ever, we need to understand religion’s constructive power which, despite its abuse over the centuries and today, we believe can enable people to overcome age old prejudices and work together for a harmonious and just society,” explains Mr. Chong. The history of the Baha’i Faith in Southeast Asia stretches back to the time of Baha’u’llah. In the late 1800s, two Baha’is traveled extensively throughout the region, visiting towns and villages that are located in present-day Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. As a result of their efforts to share the Baha’i teachings with others, several early Baha’i communities were formed. Over the many decades that have followed, Baha’i communities have become established in every country of the region, working to promote unity and build communities in which the central principles of the Baha’i Faith—such as the oneness of humankind and the equality of women and men—would progressively find expression in new patterns of interactions and relationships. The creation of the BIC Jakarta Office in 2014 marked a milestone in the Baha’i community’s efforts to contribute to thought about social and spiritual advancement in Southeast Asia. Here, all of the major world religions are present, and the question of religion’s role in promoting peace and unity is highly relevant. The BIC’s efforts are carried out in collaboration with others, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Southeast Asia’s major regional organization. These efforts have included participation in various conferences and forums, the organization of spaces for dialogue among diverse actors, and the publication of articles. In the last year, for example, the BIC assisted with an ASEAN Foundation project exploring the role of faith-based organizations in contributing to the betterment of the region. A BIC representative was also invited to give a keynote address at the 2nd Annual Malang International Peace Conference in August. Reflecting on the dynamism of the people of Southeast Asia, Mr. Chong states that the progress being made in the dialogue on peace “reflects their desires and aspirations for a better region.” "We hope that growing circles of individuals and groups will work shoulder-to-shoulder for the betterment of our societies.”

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BIC NEW YORK

Learning to live together: Is religion doing enough?

BIC NEW YORK, United States — Religious leaders have a responsibility to consider if their actions are helping people learn how to live together—or keeping them apart. This message formed part of the keynote address given by a Bahá’í representative at an international conference on security. Diane Ala’i spoke about the critical role that religious leadership can play, as well as the harm that can be caused by insisting that only one faith hold religious truth. “Building peaceful societies and safeguarding freedom of religion and belief depend on the abandonment of claims of exclusivity and finality by religious leaders,” she said. In her address to the Global Summit on Religion, Peace and Security, which brought together senior official from the United Nations, ambassadors, and representatives from other European governments, Ms. Ala’i rejected the idea that religious communities only needed to put up with each other. “Living side by side is not enough,” she explained. “People of different faiths must learn to live together.” Her remarks echoed the themes of a well-known letter addressed to the World’s Religious Leaders in 2002 by the Universal House of Justice, the supreme governing body of the Bahá’í Faith. It drew attention to the unavoidable conclusion that, all too frequently, organized religion has been an obstacle to brotherhood and peace rather than helping to bring it about. Ms. Ala’i stressed that another way was possible—that the real influence of religion in the community should be to bring people together. This was not just hypothetical. Bahá’í communities around the world have direct experience of how this can be achieved. “We are finding,” she continued, “that collective service to the common good is a powerful factor in dispelling misunderstandings between people.” This has even proved true in an environment like Iran, where the authorities and the religious leaders are openly hostile towards the Bahá’ís and are taking every possible measure to isolate them and keep them apart from mainstream society. “The community has been able to contribute to the changing of hearts and minds in the country through the constructive resilience it has demonstrated in the face of decades of oppression, working shoulder to shoulder with fellow citizens for the betterment of Iranian society,” Ms. Ala’i said. “In its constructive approach to social change, it has witnessed a rising level of support from fellow Iranians within and outside of the country in recent years.” Alongside other international organizations, the Bahá’í International Community was a participant at the three-day summit which was organized by the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect as well as the International Association for the Defence of Religious Liberty. The text of this article was updated on 17 March 2017.

SANTIAGO

Chile

Temple for South America awakens sense of the sacred

SANTIAGO, Chile — As growing numbers of people discover the newly inaugurated Baha'i House of Worship in Santiago, Chile, many are rediscovering a sense of the sacred as they are enfolded in the Temple's glass and marble wings. The Temple has had over 40,000 visitors since its inauguration in October. Whether from Santiago or further afield, they are drawn to the House of Worship for a variety of reasons. Some are keen to see the building that has won international praise for its architecture. Others, curious about a Temple inspired by a Faith about which they may have little awareness, come to learn more. And yet others arrive searching for a sense of sacredness that is lost in today's world. "We had expected large numbers of visitors but have been surprised by just how many have come in the first month alone," explained Jenny Perez, a representative of the Chilean Baha'i community. With this large wave of visitors, a relationship is forming between the city and the Temple, perched on the foothills of the Andes mountain range, overlooking it. Those who arrive find not only a beautiful space for contemplation and prayer, open to all, but also a place from which to draw inspiration and reconnect to a higher purpose. Participants in a discussion group on the Temple grounds in Santiago, Chile.Popular media sources and websites have been attempting to capture the experience of visiting the Temple through innovative means, such as 360-degree photography. In order to enrich the experience of those who arrive, the Baha'i community has opened up informal spaces for conversations on the Temple land. These spaces allow visitors who are interested to learn more about the nature and purpose of the House of Worship, to explore spiritual themes and concepts, and to contemplate the implications of a life dedicated to the betterment of society. "We hope that the Temple will be a setting where people can explore, to the extent they wish, a deeper understanding of what a sacred or spiritual experience can be, and how it is connected to the way that we each contribute to the well-being of each other and of the world," explained Ms. Perez. (Editor’s note: On 11 December 2016, a correction was made to the second paragraph to reflect that the number of visitors to the Temple since its inauguration has been 40,000, not 25,000.)

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LONDON

United Kingdom

Recasting the national conversation

LONDON, England — Can we change the character of our national conversation and the terms on which we talk to one another? Recently, the UK Baha’i Office of Public Affairs invited a group of parliamentarians, journalists, academicians, and civil society actors to explore this question. The dialogue which ensued benefited from the rich and diverse experiences of the participants. Numbering fifty, attendees included representatives from the Religion Media Centre, the British Humanist Society, SOAS University of London, the Rand Corporation, and the 3 Faiths Forum, among others. In a statement addressed to the participants, the Baha’i Office of Public Affairs wrote: “Many challenging conversations are being held at all levels of society, which are of great significance to our shared future. These conversations include the nature of our shared national values, social cohesion, the equality of women and men, the role religion plays in public life, migration, freedom of speech, freedom of religion or belief, and the economy. “In order for our society to progress, it is clear that all who are concerned need to be enabled to participate fully in these discussions,” the statement continued. The seminar opened with presentations that were given by the 5 panelists followed by a discussion and a Q&A session. People then divided into smaller groups to discuss specific themes in greater depth. Opening the session, Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth—Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Communities and Local Government—commented that “from the dawn of time we have used dialogue as a means of resolving differences, recognizing humanity, and overcoming tests.” Panel speakers included the following (from left to right): Justine Huxley, the Director of St. Ethelburga’s Centre for Reconciliation and Peace; Karnagie Sharp, a BBC journalist; Martyn Barrett of the University of Surrey; and Michael Karlberg, a Professor of Communication Studies at Western Washington University.Prof. Martyn Barrett of the University of Surrey drew attention to a critical yet underappreciated dimension of efforts to build a more harmonious society—friendship. “Hostility, intolerance, and prejudice can be reduced by bringing individuals from different cultural groups into contact with each other,” he said. “Ideally, this contact should allow for meaningful friendships to develop and should involve activities aimed at achieving common goals. In other words, cooperation rather than competition should define interactions between people.” Another of the opening speakers, Prof. Michael Karlberg of Western Washington University, discussed the need for modes of dialogue that are based on cooperation and interdependence. “As 2016 draws to a close,” he stated, “We need to ask ourselves, soberly: How are civil disagreement and combative debate working out for us? Are they leading to the world we want to leave behind for our children? Are they enabling us to solve the mounting social and environmental problems we are facing in the twenty-first century? Are they promoting meaningful forms of social cohesion? “What we need is a more mature model of public discourse that reflects the understanding that we are all members of an interdependent social body and that we have the potential for altruism, just as we do for egoism,” he continued. “To realize our altruistic potential, however, requires education, effort, and free will.” The Director of St. Ethelburga’s Centre for Reconciliation and Peace, Dr. Justine Huxley, spoke about avoiding the trap of creating two sides to every issue. If this can be done, she explained, then dialogue can demonstrate its tremendous potential to bring people from different backgrounds together. Challenging questions were also raised about how the media shapes the character of public dialogue. Speakers discussed how the media can sometimes exacerbate conflict by presenting issues as binary choices, where people are forced to take sides rather than being given a way to explore the complexities of social issues today in a more nuanced manner. “It is the duty of journalists to present issues in a way that encourages people to work together,” said Karnagie Sharp, a BBC journalist. Ms. Sharp acknowledged that this duty is not easily fulfilled, especially when the media is driven by profit. “The sad truth is that sensationalism sells. There is irresponsible journalism that sets us on a path of hatred and destruction and actively works against social cohesion,” she stated. Prof. Karlberg addressed a similar point in his presentation as well, arguing that “commercially-mediated public discourse tends to lead to a war of words between the most extreme voices in the public sphere and advertising-financed media can become a hindrance to social cohesion.” Reflecting on the event afterward, representatives of the UK Baha’i community commented on some of the early insights from the event: “Many of the participants highlighted the fact that this style of participatory and inclusive dialogue was a novel and unique contribution to existing forms of dialogue in Parliament. They also commented on the timely nature of this event and how it is very much needed within the current social and political landscape. A clear question that was posed at the end of the seminar by participants was, ‘What happens next?’ And there is much anticipation for further engagement and action. “We are hopeful that this vital conversation around dialogue will continue in the coming months and expand to growing numbers of people who are committed to building a more cohesive and harmonious society." The event was hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Group on the Baha’i Faith and chaired by two Members of Parliament, Louise Ellman MP and the Right Honourable Alistair Carmichael MP. It was held in the Portcullis House on 7 December.

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NEW YORK

United States

UN General Assembly rebukes Iran for human rights record

NEW YORK, United States — Today the international community firmly denounced a wide range of human rights violations in Iran. By a vote of 85 to 35 with 63 abstentions, the United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution expressing “serious concern” about Iran’s high rate of executions without legal safeguards, ongoing use of torture, widespread arbitrary detentions, sharp limits on freedom of assembly, expression, and religious belief, and continuing discrimination against women and ethnic and religious minorities, including Baha’is. “The vote today makes clear that the world remains deeply concerned about the way Iran treats its own citizens, while also raising questions about Iran’s genuine willingness to live up to its obligations as a member of the international community,” said Bani Dugal, the Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. “Sadly, the list of ongoing human rights violations in Iran is long,” continued Ms. Dugal. “Despite the denials of Iranian officials, signs of progress are difficult to perceive. This is especially true for Iranian Baha’is, who face, among other forms of oppression, a policy of ‘economic apartheid’ from their government, which at every turn seeks to deprive them of jobs, education, as well as the freedom to practice their religion as their conscience dictates. “In early November, for example, 124 Baha'i-owned shops and businesses were sealed by the government after their proprietors closed for two days to observe an important Baha'i holy day. “In addition, Baha’is continue to be blocked from freely attending university, and are subject to all manner of other restrictions. They also face arbitrary arrest, detention, and imprisonment for legitimate religious activities,” said Ms. Dugal. She noted that about 86 Baha’is are currently in prison and that, since 2005, more than 900 Baha’is have been arrested and at least 1100 incidents of economic exclusion have been documented. “The situation has not improved under the administration of President Hassan Rouhani,” she added. Since he took office in August 2013, at least 185 Baha’is have been arrested and there have been at least 540 incidents of economic exclusion. Among other things, today’s resolution called on Iran to eliminate “all forms of discrimination, including economic restrictions” against religious minorities in Iran. It also called for the release of “all religious practitioners imprisoned for their membership in or activities on behalf of a recognized or unrecognized minority religious group, including the seven Baha’i leaders.” The resolution was introduced by Canada, and co-sponsored by 41 other nations. It is the 29th such resolution expressing concern about human rights violations in Iran by the General Assembly since 1985.

40.7127281

-74.0060152

LAHORE

Pakistan

Leaders in Pakistan highlight urgent need for harmony of religion

LAHORE, Pakistan — The Baha'i International Community (BIC) has emphasized the need for a deeper understanding of human oneness in fostering peaceful coexistence between different religions. Speaking at an event organized by the government of Pakistan to promote interfaith harmony—the International Seerat Conference in Lahore—BIC representative Chong Ming Hwee stated "In the human body, cooperation ensures the functioning of that system... Similarly, civilization can be seen as the outcome of a set of interactions among closely integrated, yet diverse components—components which have transcended the narrow purpose of tending to their own existence." "And just as the viability of every cell and every organ depends upon the health of the body as a whole, so should the peace and prosperity of every individual, every family, and every people be sought in the well-being of the entire human race." The Conference was held on 11 and 12 December 2016, taking place on the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Leaders in Pakistan, recognizing the urgent need for interfaith harmony, used the occasion to draw attention to the role of religion in creating unity. The conference, which was attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, also included representatives of different religious communities and government officials. "To be a part of this historic conference convened by the government of Pakistan, where contributions of religious minorities were welcomed and embraced, was very heartening," said Mr. Chong. "Not only did the gathering attest to how the teachings and example of Prophet Muhammed emphasized interfaith harmony, but it also affirmed foundational truths that are common to all religions, namely the oneness of God and of humanity."

31.5656822

74.3141829

LUXEMBOURG

Luxembourg

Embracing oneness means rethinking prosperity and development

LUXEMBOURG, Luxembourg — Unity Foundation, an organization started by a small group of Baha'is 25 years ago and inspired by the teachings of the Faith, has been one of several Baha'i-inspired agencies that assist social and economic development organizations around the world to access essential funding. The challenge before it is how to facilitate the flow of funds from one part of the world to another while preserving and strengthening a local community's ownership and capacity to direct its own path of development. Baha'i endeavors for social and economic development operate on the principle that populations should be the protagonists of their own material, spiritual, and intellectual advancement, not just recipients or mere participants. The majority of such initiatives are sustained by resources in the local communities that are carrying them out. Some efforts continue to grow in scale and complexity and eventually require financial resources from outside the community to enable them to extend proven practices and have even greater impact. Agencies inspired by the Baha'i teachings, such as Unity Foundation, have been learning about raising financial resources in support of development initiatives that have reached a certain level of growth and complexity. In these instances, Baha'i institutions that have been following such organizations closely arrange contact with the Foundation. These projects fall mainly into two categories: those that provide education for children through the establishment of community-based elementary schools and those that develop the capacities of youth in rural areas to become promoters of community well-being. "Guided by our principles, we do not initiate, carry out, or manage the development projects in other parts of the world," said Fernand Schaber, the President of Unity Foundation's Board of Directors. "We see ourselves as equal partners with those projects that receive funds. Our role is to represent their vision to the donor community in Luxembourg. Mr. Yves Wiltgen of Unity Foundation with Mrs. Maina Mkandawire, director of Bambino Foundation, during an interview with a radio station in Luxembourg"We also do not choose the projects. They are recommended to us through certain Baha'i institutions. We have learned that working within this system helps us to avoid the many pitfalls that can arise in local communities when financial resources are not provided through appropriate channels." A central element of the Foundation's understanding of development is its conception of prosperity. "We recognize the importance of being prosperous in material means, infrastructure, and technology, but it is of equal, if not greater importance, for communities to be prosperous in family and societal unity, in harmony, in high-mindedness, in peace, in generosity, in justice, and in equality between men and women," explained Board of Directors member Angela Roldan. "The hope is that children in every society will grow up with a heightened awareness that the accumulation of wealth should not only benefit themselves but be a source of the wealth and happiness of others. "From this perspective then, we do not adhere to the practice of dividing the world into groups of 'the developed' and 'the underdeveloped.' Every country in the world has a long way to go in learning how to reach true prosperity. What is required is a global process of learning, in which each nation and people, all on an equal footing, can contribute its share of insights and be seen as a protagonist along its own path of development. And this is the principle that we try to reflect in our relationships with our partners in other parts of the world," Dr. Roldan said. In the context of arranging funds for projects around the world, the Foundation is learning how to contribute to the discourse on development in Luxembourg, drawing on the experiences being generated globally from the projects with which it works. "The conversations we have with donors are not just about fund raising. More broadly, these conversations are raising consciousness about the concepts and principles central to development," said Yves Wiltgen, the Foundation's Public Discourse Officer. "We are promoting a dialogue around these ideas in different spaces, including with individual donors, in schools, in the media, and in special gatherings or other events. "Interestingly, people see that insights generated in other parts of the world are also applicable to the development of Luxembourg. For example, knowledge is being gained about how communities can become united around higher aspirations and how people can take initiative to help others in their communities," continued Mr. Wiltgen. The work of Unity Foundation has advanced in collaboration with the Luxembourg Government's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has developed a deep appreciation for the principles guiding the organization. Together, the Foundation and the Ministry have facilitated the flow of more than €3 million to projects in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia over the past five years. On 19 November, Unity Foundation hosted a formal dinner to mark its twenty-fifth anniversary. One hundred sixty individuals attended the event at the Cercle Cite in Luxembourg. Guests included people from the business, media, and government sectors, as well as other individuals who have supported the Foundation's work. "This event was a lot more than a celebration of twenty-five years of Unity Foundation," stated Mr. Wiltgen. "It is a sign of a certain level of consciousness that material wealth in one part of the world and its absence in others is not acceptable when we consider the whole world as one family."

49.6112768

6.129799

LILONGWE

Malawi

Film on education and love inspires audiences around the world

LILONGWE, Malawi — A movie about a brother and sister in a rural village in the heart of Africa is demonstrating the power of film to contribute to constructive social change and stimulate meaningful conversations. Mercy's Blessing, written and directed by May Taherzadeh, is a moving and profound exploration of the connection between love and sacrifice in the midst of social injustice. It has received widespread acclaim and, since 2015, has already won ten international film awards. The film is centered on the story of two siblings. The older, named Blessings, wants to raise his younger sister, Mercy, and himself out of poverty through education. As obstacles mount for the family, Blessings becomes increasingly conscious of the injustices around him and the power of choice. "The idea was to show a person in a dire situation making a selfless sacrifice. This ability to sacrifice, to be generous and think of the well-being of another, is a reflection of the strength of the human spirit." Ms. Taherzadeh said. Mercy's Blessing draws attention to issues ranging from the education of girls to the prevalence of child brides and is currently being used as a part of the United Nations Joint Programme for Girls' Education in Malawi to spearhead a nationwide campaign. The themes the film addresses—privilege, equality, sacrifice, and responsibility—have connected to audiences around the world. In addition to its release to film festivals and smaller venues in 2015, Mercy's Blessing has been shown in association with various initiatives in a number of countries including Vanuatu, Ireland, South Africa, the United States, and the Netherlands to advance discussions about human rights, social justice, and the equality of women and men. Some organizations have screened the film and organized an accompanying workshop to reflect on the emotions and questions the story evokes and to think about community development. Young people viewing the film have been especially moved by the idea that individual choice and sacrifice can effect positive change, even in the midst of structural injustices that ultimately require broader societal transformation as well. Mercy, played by Hazel Roberts, attends class. A still shot from the film Mercy’s Blessing.With a background in documentary filmmaking, Ms. Taherzadeh, who grew up in Malawi, was interested in exploring how a fictional story could touch hearts using the power of art. "A quotation from the Baha'i writings that has always inspired me says that art can better awaken noble sentiments than cold rationalizing, especially among the mass of the people," she explained. "While it is an African story, the film shows universal themes of love and sacrifice, hope and despair, that remind us of our common humanity. It is wonderful to see how the film inspires courage for change in people everywhere, living in very different circumstances. "Nobody is where they are only because of themselves. We are all here because of the sacrifices of somebody else." While the film is not yet publicly released, its trailer can be found here. (Update (22 June 2017): Mercy’s Blessing is now available online.)

-13.9875107

33.768144

BIC NEW YORK

Suspicious killing of Baha'i in Iran

BIC NEW YORK, United States — The Baha'i International Community has learned about the killing of a Baha'i in Iran, under suspicious circumstances. A report received on 9 January indicated that Ahmad Fanaian was found dead, having sustained severe burns to his body. Mr. Fanaian was an elderly and respected man from Semnan Province. This killing comes at a time of ongoing, systematic oppression of Baha’is in Semnan Province, which has been the focus of extensive anti-Baha'i activity. In 2012, the Baha'i International Community published a special report detailing numerous acts of violence and discrimination against Baha'is there. Further details are expected in the coming days.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

New publication of Baha'u'llah's Writings released

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — A new volume of Baha'i sacred texts, Days of Remembrance: Selections from the Writings of Baha'u'llah for Baha'i Holy Days, is being released today, making available to the world a selection of newly translated Writings of Baha'u'llah. Days of Remembrance offers forty-five selections revealed specifically for, or relating to, the nine holy days annually commemorated by the Baha'i community. It has been published in anticipation of the celebration of the two hundred-year anniversaries of the Birth of Baha'u'llah and the Birth of the Bab in 2017 and 2019 respectively, for which Baha'i communities across the planet are currently preparing. The observance of holy days is an important feature of every religion, and the upcoming bicentenary commemorations, the first of which will occur in October 2017, will bring together communities through gatherings open to all, in villages, towns, and cities around the world. These sacred events are being planned at a time when Baha'i communities are learning about the enrichment of the devotional aspects of community life and about the relationship between worship of God and service to humanity. Regarding the commemoration of holy days, the preface of the new volume states: "This remembrance has both a personal dimension, providing a time for reflection on the significance of these events, and a social dimension, helping to deepen the identity and foster the cohesion of the community." Days of Remembrance is available on the Baha'i Reference Library. The book can be ordered through the US Baha'i Distribution Service.

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Fred Schechter, 1927-2017

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — Fred Schechter, former Counsellor member of the International Teaching Centre, passed away on 27 January 2017 in California, U.S.A. He was 89 years old. The Universal House of Justice sent the following message to all National Spiritual Assemblies on 29 January.*  *  *We feel great sorrow as we mourn the passing of humble, loving, steadfast servant of the Cause of God, Fred Schechter. His wide-ranging achievements, spread over many decades, are the fruits of a life lived with selfless devotion to the Faith. Not long after enrolling as a Baha'i, he answered the call of the beloved Guardian for believers to go to Africa, and there he was named a Knight of Baha'u'llah for French Somaliland. He also travelled as a pioneer to several countries in Latin America. His efforts to encourage Baha'i youth were a notable feature of his thirteen years as a Continental Counsellor in the Americas, years which culminated in his appointment to the International Teaching Centre. His wisdom, kindness, and good humour, combined with a practical approach and friendly demeanour, enabled him in so many settings to advance the Cause and to help others develop a capacity for service. In the Holy Shrines we will supplicate for the progress of his illumined soul, now reunited in the realms above with his dear wife Julia. To his three children, as well as other family members, we offer our condolences. We call for memorial gatherings to be held in his honour in all Houses of Worship and in Baha'i communities throughout the world. The Universal House of Justice

BAKU

Azerbaijan

Champion of women’s emancipation celebrated

BAKU, Azerbaijan — The story of Tahirih, a Bahá’í heroine born of Azeri roots, has long been a symbol of inspiration in the country of Azerbaijan. She was one of the pre-eminent champions of the equality of women and men in the nineteenth century. On 25 January, Azerbaijan’s National Museum of History held a celebration of women’s education in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries where Tahirih’s dedication and contributions to the advancement of women were recognized. “Tahirih is held in high regard; she is not only renowned within the Bahá’í Faith but also well-known and respected throughout the East,” explained Azer Jafarov, professor at Baku State University. “She influenced modern literature, raised the call for the emancipation of women, and had a deep impact on public consciousness. “The fulfilment of Tahirih’s vision of emancipation has found greater expression over time,” continued Dr. Jafarov. “It is the rise of a sun that brings about enlightenment to the human heart.” A recently published book on Tahirih’s life and works was presented at the conference by Salahaddin Ayyubov, a representative of the Bahá’í community. The presentation highlighted Tahirih’s impact on the advancement of women. Also discussed at the event were her contributions to poetry, for which she is well known. “Tahirih is a great personality to whom Christian, Atheist, and Muslim writers have all paid homage. Her far-reaching vision of reality sheds light on the aspirations of everyone who yearns for peace and harmony,” said Ali Farhadov, a researcher for the National Museum of History in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan’s National Museum of History held a celebration of women’s education in the 19th and 20th centuries where Tahirih’s dedication and contributions to the advancement of women were recognized.“Today, not only women of the East, but the entire planet must learn from her character and life, which is an embodiment of freedom of thought, emancipation of women, and the attitude of independent search for the truth.” A statue in central Baku of a woman casting aside her veil is said to have been influenced by the story of Tahirih. The monument, known as “the statue of a liberated woman,” was built in 1960 by the sculptor Fuad Abdurrahmanov.

40.3754434

49.8326748

BIC NEW YORK

Seeing capacity for meaningful contribution in all populations

BIC NEW YORK, United States — It is vital for aid agencies to see the populations they work with as protagonists of their own advancement. This message formed part of the opening address of a representative of the Baha'i International Community at a recent conference on social development at the United Nations. "Relationships of mutual support and assistance will increasingly be seen as our greatest source of strength," said Daniel Perell, BIC representative and NGO Committee for Social Development chairperson, in his opening remarks on 1 February 2017 at the 55th UN Commission for Social Development, held this month in New York. "Whether wealthy or poor, rural or urban, a doctorate or illiterate, we all depend on each other, and we all have much to learn about a functioning society," Mr. Perell continued. The idea that all populations have the capacity to contribute to their own development was one of the central themes of a statement shared by the BIC at the UN Commission. The statement notes that while international aid organizations increasingly acknowledge the "agency of low-income communities," the people in them are "rarely embraced as capable and equal partners in a collaborative enterprise." The BIC delegation to the 55th Commission for Social Development. Left to right: Aaron Dahm, Yasmin Roshanian, Eric Farr, Rodrigo Lemus, Bita Correa, Mark Scheffer, Nava Kavelin, Arash Fazli, Saphira Rameshfar, Daniel Perell, and Serik Tokbolat.It is "vital for the United Nations system to develop its ability to see capacity and strength in populations that, at times, may have been given labels such as 'marginalized,'" reads the statement. Bita Correa, a member of the BIC's delegation to the Commission, noted in particular the role that youth can play in building communities when their contributions are supported and encouraged. Ms. Correa shared the example of the work of FUNDAEC (Fundacion para la Aplicacion y Ensenanza de las Ciencias), a Baha'i-inspired agency in Colombia. In her remarks on 3 February at an event hosted by the BIC on the topic "Rising Generations: Youth as Drivers of Prospering Communities," Ms. Correa told the story of a group of young people on the north coast of Colombia who undertook a service project to promote better practices in garbage and waste disposal-an effort that ended up transforming the habits of their entire community. These youth had been engaged in a study program that emphasized their own agency, stressed the importance of learning together, and encouraged projects of service to the whole community. They decided to focus on environmental issues, and over a period of six months, they analyzed the patterns of consumption in the community, identifying specific measures they could take to address the issue. Ultimately, said Ms. Correa, this lead to the community re-organizing its entire approach to the matter, thanks to the initiative and example of young people. "One thing we have observed in the various programs that are being offered by the Baha'i community worldwide has been the willingness and energy with which youth have engaged when given the chance," she said. "They want to participate. They want to see that their actions actually have an impact."

BIC GENEVA

Baha'is of Iran website launches

BIC GENEVA, Switzerland — Following the wave of national Baha'i websites that have launched in recent years, the site of the Baha'i community of Iran went online earlier today. The website, which can be accessed at bahaisofiran.org, covers a range of topics and presents the history, activities, and aspirations of the Baha'i community in Iran. "The site of the Baha'is of Iran provides visitors with an understanding of the nature and purpose of the Baha'i Faith, its rich history in the land of its birth, and how the Baha'i community in Iran is working side by side with its fellow Iranians for the betterment of that society," explained Diane Ala'i, representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations in Geneva. A screenshot from Bahaisofiran.org, the official website for the Baha'i community in Iran, which launched earlier today."What strikes you when you look at the site is how the teachings of the Baha'i Faith and the principles it promotes reflect the aspirations of the people of Iran, most especially the youth, and the profound desire in that society for material progress that is balanced with moral and spiritual advancement. "Given the restrictions on the Baha'i community in Iran and the fact that there are no Baha'i institutions in that country, our office is very pleased to have been able to help host the site," said Mrs. Ala'i. Although the official website of the worldwide Baha'i community has recently been made available in Persian and a number of other languages, the new "Baha'is of Iran" website is the first website of the Baha'i community of Iran. This development is especially important at a time when a large volume of anti-Baha'i propaganda has proliferated in that country. Since 2013 alone, more than 20,000 such pieces have been disseminated in Iran's media. The content and rich photography on the new website conveys the diversity of the Baha'i community in Iran, while also providing a sense of hope that religion as a reality can be a source of inspiration and give rise to constructive action for the common good. Its design evokes the vibrancy and color found in Iran's geography, art, and cultural history.

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Temple construction reaches new milestone

AGUA AZUL, Colombia — Plans for the construction of the local Baha'i House of Worship in Agua Azul, a village in Norte del Cauca, Colombia, have recently reached an important milestone. Construction officially began in January, after building contracts were formalized with a local firm in the region. Following the groundbreaking ceremony in May 2016, the three-meter high central mound on which the 18-meter tall Temple will stand has been completed, and the foundational work for the surrounding auxiliary structures has been laid. In time, these structures will be painted in the bright colors traditional to buildings in Colombia. Parallel to the progress on building the House of Worship has been the reinforcement of activities, ongoing for some time now, that contribute to the spiritual and material progress of communities in and around Norte del Cauca. Inspired by the Temple, these community-building activities have multiplied, and a spirit of prayer, devotion, and participation has begun to increasingly permeate the area. Contractors start work on the Temple site in Agua Azul, a village in Norte del Cauca, Colombia, where a local House of Worship is being built.This same spirit has found expression in practical projects. Since the property for the House of Worship was acquired in December 2013, the community has been undertaking a reforestation project on an 11-hectare piece of land adjacent to the Temple site. The initiative has helped to reintroduce native vegetation to the area, which was decimated by years of monoculture plantations of sugarcane. The team committed to the project has already successfully raised 43 species of plants on the land, which is designated for a Bosque Nativo, or native forest. "Working in a team to recover many of the lost plant species that are part of this land has been one of the most inspiring parts of the project," said Jason, 12 years old and the youngest member of the reforestation team. In March, the team is planning a special community project to invite individuals from the surrounding communities to bring various plant species from their own homes or farms as a contribution to the Bosque Nativo. The relationship between the environment of the region and the community is also expressed in the design of the House of Worship, which was inspired by the shape of the cocoa pod, a plant that grows abundantly in Colombia and is integral to the identity of the landscape and the lives and economy of the people. "The Temple is already becoming a source of inspiration, a source of development," said Julian Gutierrez Chacon, the architect for the House of Worship, reflecting on the future of the community. "People are disoriented and have many stresses, and for them the Temple will be a north star, a compass that will reorient lives." The design for the Temple in Norte del Cauca was announced in 2014. It is one of the first local Baha'i Houses of Worship to be built, among four others announced by the Universal House of Justice in 2012.

3.1866659

-76.4458778

BIC NEW YORK

Gender equality essential for progress, says BIC in new statement

BIC NEW YORK, United States — The Baha'i International Community has released a new statement on the advancement of women and the vital relationship between gender equality and true prosperity. The document was published in preparation for the Commission on the Status of Women to be held at the United Nations next week. The Commission is the UN's principal annual global forum for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. It promotes women's rights and shapes global standards for equality. The BIC's statement, "Toward Prosperity: The Role of Women and Men in Building a Flourishing World Civilization", connects the equality of women and men with the advancement of society in general. The statement explores a holistic conception of progress, calling for a vision beyond mere economic prosperity. The advancement of women must entail more than economic empowerment, argues the BIC. Women play a pivotal role in social transformation for a more just, peaceful, and equitable world when they are able to meaningfully participate in every sphere of life. Although there have been substantial strides in gender equality over the decades, far more remains to be accomplished, states the BIC. Access to education and other important areas have greatly increased; however, systematic and structural injustice continues to suppress women's potential and serves as a major obstacle to progress. "Until these inequalities are thoroughly uprooted from the fabric of society, humanity will remain mired in the conflict, despair, confusion, and imbalance that have come to define much of modern life," reads the statement. Yet the publication describes the path towards prosperity, despite its many obstacles, as paved with hope. The BIC United Nations Office New York will explore these issues during the Commission, which will take place from 13-24 March. Information about the sessions the BIC will host and participate in is available here. The statement "Toward Prosperity: The Role of Women and Men in Building a Flourishing World Civilization" can be found here.

WASHINGTON

D.C.

United States

Catalyzing an education revolution: Brookings Institution highlights Baha'i-inspired program

WASHINGTON, United States — In the last twenty years, remarkable strides have been achieved in providing access to education for children around the world. However, research in the field of education is showing that increased schooling has not automatically led to increased learning. The United Nations estimates that 250 million children are not able to read, write, or perform basic math, whether they have been to school or not. Addressing what it calls a "learning crisis", the Brookings Institution — a major think tank in the United States-started an initiative in 2015 called "Millions Learning". The study sought to identify educational interventions where not only access to schools was improving, but also learning itself. One of the programs featured in the report is the Baha'i-inspired initiative Sistema de Aprendizaje Tutorial (SAT, or in English, the Tutorial Learning System). Since its beginnings in the 1970s in Colombia, SAT has expanded across Latin America to reach more than 300,000 students, and it has been accredited and recognized by a number of governments. The "Millions Learning" report highlights 14 educational programs that show increased learning outcomes through innovative approaches to schooling. A major criterion of the study was that these programs could be scaled up in size and implemented in other settings in a sustainable way. According to Brookings, SAT is "catalyzing an education revolution" by "transforming how education is conceptualized, designed, and delivered." "SAT is radically different from the traditional secondary school and high school model, and it is cutting edge in so many ways," said Jenny Perlman Robinson, author of the case study for the Brookings Institution. "It focuses on skills that are beyond the traditional academic skills, such as moral and character development, and it conceives of learning as something much broader." A group of seventh graders learning about preparing orchard plots for planting crops as part of the SAT program in HondurasUnderlying all endeavors of the SAT program is the philosophy of nurturing a generation of socially minded young people who can support and sustain development in their own communities. Its innovations in rural education are redefining learning as a moral endeavor, drawing on a process of action and research. SAT bridges theory with practice by linking classroom work with practical projects, like encouraging students to learn mathematics and science in the context of growing vegetables or using their language abilities to start small study groups to promote literacy. SAT was initially developed by the NGO Fundacion para la Aplicacion y Ensenanza de las Ciencias (FUNDAEC, or in English, Foundation for the Application and Teaching of the Sciences) to contribute to the progress of rural communities. FUNDAEC conceived of SAT as a strategy for advancing social and economic development, not as a program to fill the vacuum in secondary education. However, it quickly became apparent that education was the way to achieve that goal. One pioneering difference between SAT and other widely accepted classroom models is the concept of "tutors." Teachers working with SAT are referred to as tutors, and their role is defined as guiding and facilitating the learning process, rather than only imparting information. The lack of hierarchy is "an important distinction", wrote Brookings, as it creates a culture of mutual respect and trust between tutors and students. "This relationship radically changes the teaching-learning process," the report said. "Its distinctiveness is further reflected in the program's emphasis on dialogue and debate, as well as close teacher-student exercises that are normally performed in a circle or in small groups." Additionally, unlike traditional education models, SAT places a large emphasis on community service. "Community service is not seen as just an add-on to the teaching. Instead, it's very much a part of the core curriculum," explained Ms. Robinson. "When we've presented the ideas that underlie the framework of SAT to others, we get responses like 'I'm excited about this, but it's utopian,'" said Erin Murphy-Graham, a professor at the University of California Berkeley and the author of Opening Minds, Improving Lives: Education and Women's Empowerment in Honduras. "But it's not utopian — it's actually something that has been implemented, that has been tested, that has been refined. It's an educational program that has been able to incorporate a very specific and very precise conceptual framework around the role of knowledge in advancing civilization, and it's possible. We're not talking about the distant future. We're talking about things that are happening right now, on the ground, in several countries in Latin America." The case study on the SAT program, titled "Sistema de Aprendizaje Tutorial: Redefining Rural Secondary Education in Latin America," was written by Christina Kwauk and Jenny Perlman Robinson and published by the Brookings Centre for Universal Education in July 2016. A copy is available online.

38.8950368

-77.0365427

BIC NEW YORK

BIC offers expanded perspective at CSW

BIC NEW YORK, United States — The Baha'i International Community (BIC) contributed to the discourse on the advancement of women during the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) this year. "The discussions at the UN raised fundamental questions about how the situation of millions of women around the world—economic, social, and otherwise—can best be improved," said Saphira Rameshfar, a representative of the BIC to the UN. The Commission on the Status of Women is the single largest forum for UN Member States and other international actors focusing on women's rights and empowerment. Every year, it attracts thousands of participants from around the world. The theme of this year's Commission, running from 13-24 March 2017, was "Women's Economic Empowerment in the Changing World of Work." "Economic empowerment cannot be equated with women simply occupying the same positions as men within the existing social order—an order that has generated tremendous disparities of wealth and resources, treated the natural environment as a reservoir of resources to be exploited at will, and prioritized economic growth over other vital concerns such as the health of families, the stability of communities, and indeed the psychological and emotional well-being of workers themselves," Ms. Rameshfar said. Instead, the BIC proposed that women would need to have an integral and critical role in establishing new patterns of thought and behavior and new social structures that reflect the principle of the equality of women and men and the oneness of humankind. At the discussion hosted by the BIC to present its statement, panellists from several prominent NGOs joined Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of BIC to the UN (center), in a panel discussion on the economic structure of society, the role of the family, and the period of youth as they relate to gender equality.The BIC contributed in many forums, including by sharing its statement, "Toward Prosperity: The Role of Women and Men in Building a Flourishing World Civilization," to the Commission; screening the film Mercy's Blessing; hosting an event to explore faith and feminism; and conducting a discussion to examine the role of youth in gender equality, among others. At the discussion hosted by the BIC to present its statement, panellists from several prominent NGOs offered their reflections on the economic structure of society, the role of the family, and the period of youth as they related to gender equality. Religion contributes to cultural norms for the economic empowerment of women, said Azza Karam, Senior Advisor to the Multilateral Affairs Branch of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and member of the panel. "People think this area is just a small domain of the global conversation about human rights," she said. "But it is essential to realizing the sustainable development goals." At the Commission's Youth Forum, which convened more than 700 young people from around the world, BIC collaborator Eric Farr suggested that one way faith communities can contribute to gender equity is by adopting a systematic process of learning. "We actually don't know what a society that's truly based on principles of gender equality looks like; such a society has never existed," said Mr. Farr. He continued by explaining that the equality of women and men is an ideal toward which we, as one human family, must work. Humanity's efforts will require an ongoing process of dialogue and learning. "What we need is to develop a new body of knowledge that draws on the insights of humanity's great systems of knowledge, religion and science," he concluded. Commenting on the significance of this international discourse to the Baha'i community, Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the BIC to the UN, said "The Baha'i Faith explicitly states that the equality of women and men is not merely desired, but an eternal spiritual truth essential to humanity's advancement and the establishment of peace."

BATTAMBANG

Cambodia

Construction progresses on Cambodia Temple

BATTAMBANG, Cambodia — Excitement is stirring in Battambang as anticipation builds for the completion of the first local Baha'i House of Worship. Scores upon scores of inhabitants in the region have been galvanized to offer service to their communities, as well as at the Temple site, where hundreds of shrubs and flowers have been planted since the initiation of this historic endeavor. Additionally, construction of the central edifice and surrounding buildings has advanced rapidly, and recent aerial video footage captures the beauty of the emerging structure and the surrounding land. Some of the most notable recent developments include the completion of a number of auxiliary buildings on the land and the erection of the steel roof structure for the main edifice, which is soon to be followed by cladding and glazing of the roof. The local Baha'i House of Worship in Battambang, Cambodia.Once the roof is set by mid-April, the Greatest Name motif will be raised inside the House of Worship, marking yet another significant milestone in the construction process. In the midst of the growing excitement among the local population, the Provincial governor of Battambang, H.E. Chan Sophal, paid a visit to the Temple site on the first of March. He met with members of the community and had a chance to survey developments.

12.9256791

103.23171364274523

NEW DELHI

India

Moving tribute by India’s President

NEW DELHI, India — 2017 marks the two hundred year anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, and thousands of Baha’i communities in localities around the world are preparing to commemorate this momentous occasion in October of this year. In India, as preparations advance, the Baha’i community has received from the President of India—His Excellency Pranab Mukherjee—a moving tribute honoring this bicentenary year. President Mukherjee’s message draws attention to the relevance today of Baha’u’llah’s well-known statement, “The earth is but one country and mankind its citizens,” and calls on all Indians to reflect on the life and vision of Baha’u’llah. Message of His Excellency Pranab Mukherjee, President of India

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77.2090057

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Naw-Ruz receptions promote harmony

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — In August 1868, Baha'u'llah and his companions arrived by sea to the prison-city of Akka under an Ottoman edict of perpetual banishment. His exile resulted in the Holy Land becoming home to the spiritual and administrative heart of the Baha'i world. Those serving at the Baha'i World Centre have since those earliest days tried to exemplify, through their life and work, a consciousness of the oneness of humanity. The annual celebration of Naw-Ruz, the Baha'i New Year, has been an occasion when the Baha'i World Centre has brought together in fellowship a diverse range of people from society. In addition to a commemoration at the World Centre itself, a set of receptions are held in Akka and Jerusalem around the same time. This year, local authorities, religious leaders from the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths, and representatives of civil society, came together on 24 March in old Akka at a historic former residence of 'Abdu'l-Baha for a Naw-Ruz reception. The 95 guests included mayor of Akka Shimon Lankry, Member of Knesset Zohrair Bahloul, the city's Chief Rabbi, a prominent Muslim Sheikh, the Greek Orthodox Archimandrite, a Catholic Reverend, and other leaders of religious and civil society organizations in the city. Sarah Vader, Deputy Secretary-General of the Baha'i International Community, opened the celebration with remarks about the meaning of Naw-Ruz for Baha'is and the significance of coming together to celebrate this holy day. "Naw-Ruz is about renewal and hope," reflected Ms. Vader afterward.The participants at the event exchanged good wishes on the occasion of Naw-Ruz and had an opportunity to discuss a well-known passage from Baha'u'llah: "This span of earth is but one homeland and one habitation. It behoveth you to abandon vainglory which causeth alienation and to set your hearts on whatever will ensure harmony." The reception in Jerusalem brought together an array of guests to commemorate the festive occasion of the new year. Sarah Vader, Deputy Secretary-General of the Baha'i International Community, opened the celebration with remarks about the meaning of Naw-Ruz for Baha'is and the significance of coming together to celebrate this holy day. "To Baha'is, Naw-Ruz is not just a calendar event. Rather it is an opportunity to reinvigorate the powers of the spirit and to re-examine matters of the heart and conscience. It begins with the idea that the renewal in the world of nature is in fact a symbol of spiritual renewal, and an occasion for the individual to explore how to contribute to the material and spiritual welfare of others," reflected Ms. Vader afterward. "This annual event is an occasion for the Baha'is to celebrate the new year with governmental, societal, and community leaders and to open a space for people of diverse backgrounds to join in fellowship and celebrate our common heritage as a human family," she said. This year, the reception was also an opportunity to recognize the public service and contributions to coexistence of the honorable Salim Joubran, Justice of the Supreme Court of Israel, who is retiring this year. Justice Joubran, who grew up and lives close to the Baha'i holy places in Akka and Haifa, served on the Court for fourteen years and championed coexistence and justice during his career. Introducing Justice Joubran at the event, Joshua Lincoln, Secretary-General of the Baha'i International Community, commented that "the Baha'i concept of justice in its spiritual, personal, and social dimensions holds so exalted a station that it is associated with the name and title of the supreme administrative institution of the Baha'i community, the Universal House of Justice."

BEIRUT

Lebanon

UN recognizes role of religion in protecting human rights

BEIRUT, Lebanon — Too often, religion is portrayed primarily as a divisive force in society. The abuse of power by segments of religious and political leadership, the fueling of prejudice and superstition, and violations of human dignity and honor, are highlighted in popular media and discourse. "These distortions of religion undermine a powerful force that can help combat the very ills in society that are tearing it apart," explained Diane Ala'i, representative of the Baha'i International Community (BIC) to the UN in Geneva. "This is true especially because religion speaks to the highest aspirations of human beings and inspires them to act for the greater good in a way that few other things, if any, can. "The challenge before us is to look at religion from a different angle and draw on those universal principles of love, of justice, of forgiveness, and of concern for our fellow human beings, all of which lie at the heart of religious belief," she continued. Ms. Ala’i’s sentiments are shared widely among conscientious leaders and organizations, which have been in dialogue for years about how they can work together to combat ignorance, hatred, and prejudice. A recent chapter in this unfolding dialogue took place in Beirut at the “Faith for Rights” meeting organized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 28–29 March. In his opening remarks, Zeid Ra'ad Al-Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, attributed the root cause of human rights violations to an absence of a deep sense of justice. To address this void, he explained, religion must play a pivotal role in upholding respect for the dignity and equality of all humankind. In fact, in recent years, the UN has been appealing to religious communities to share in the responsibility of safeguarding human rights. "Religion and human rights are not in contradiction—quite the contrary," said Ms. Ala'i. Several of the participants at the meeting of experts on "Faith for Rights," organized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Beirut from 28-29 March 2017. Among those pictured are Ahmed Shaheed, UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, and Diane Ala'i, representative of the BIC to the UN in Geneva (fourth and fifth from the left, respectively).Speaking about the Faith for Rights meeting, she said, "There was this consensus about the need to show the unifying nature of religion—a force for peace, not for war; a force for unity, not for violence; a force for understanding, not for fanaticism." Religious leaders and civil society actors, hailing from around the world, explored ways to cooperate in safeguarding human rights for all. The result was the preparation of two documents: the Beirut Declaration on "Faith for Rights" and 18 Commitments on "Faith for Rights." A substantial number of those present came from the Middle East and represented a range of religious communities and faith-based organizations. The 18 Commitments on "Faith for Rights" draw on many religious writings. The decision to choose 18 was an allusion to Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which protects the right to freedom of thought and religion. Among those sacred texts selected for the document is a passage quoted from 'Abdu'l-Baha during a talk in New York City in June 1912: "The essential purpose of the religion of God is to establish unity among mankind. The divine Manifestations were Founders of the means of fellowship and love. They did not come to create discord, strife and hatred in the world. The religion of God is the cause of love, but if it is made to be the source of enmity and bloodshed, surely its absence is preferable to its existence; for then it becomes satanic, detrimental and an obstacle to the human world." The passage is included in Article 9 of the 18 Commitments on "Faith for Rights." The entire talk can be found in The Promulgation of Universal Peace. It is hoped that the Commitments and Declaration from the UN's "Faith for Rights" meeting in Beirut will be read and endorsed by government officials in an upcoming conference to be held in Rabat, Morocco.

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35.47843

BERLIN

Germany

Rethinking religion in Germany

BERLIN, Germany — With the accelerated movement of refugees from the Middle East and North Africa over the past several years, German society is encountering a changing cultural and religious landscape. These shifts are stimulating profound societal reflection on fundamental issues. "Thought leaders in Germany are asking foundational questions, especially about religion and its expression in public life," explains Saba Detweiler, a representative of the German Baha'i community. These questions are not confined to Germany. Among some in Europe, an age-old assumption that religion would gradually fade out of the public sphere and become only a private matter has been turned upside down. "People are seeing that religion is an essential part of humanity's collective life. It is not going away. For this reason, it is important to better understand the nature and contributions of religion and to have a dialogue about its positive expression in society," explains Ms. Detweiler. Yet, the Baha'i community has also found that traditional spaces for discussions on religion—primarily interreligious forums—are often not oriented to explore the questions now arising in Europe and elsewhere. "It seems that the conversation needs to move beyond interreligious dialogue, beyond issues of theology and rituals, to allow for a more rich discourse on religion's contribution to the betterment of society and the common good," says Ms. Detweiler. One of the more challenging questions is whether religion can be seen as something more than just groupings of differing sects and denominations at odds with one another. "This is what we are interested in exploring—the idea that religion can be seen as a cohesive force in society and as a system of knowledge that has, together with science, propelled the advancement of civilizations," she continues. Part of the reason that German society is now grappling with questions around religion, explains Ingo Hofmann, Director of the Baha'i Office of External Affairs in Germany, is that many Germans are seeing religion practiced in ways that are foreign to them. This has made them more aware of their own religious norms and beliefs, even among those who do not typically associate themselves with organized religion. Naturally, this process has stimulated curiosity and a quest to build mutual understanding but has also given rise to fears and xenophobia. As national conversations on migration and religion have gained momentum in recent years, the Baha'i community of Germany has been learning how to work side by side with its fellow citizens and various organizations to begin a constructive dialogue on the questions arising from the changing landscape in the country. Striving to make a meaningful contribution, the Baha'i community has, over the past year, organized a series of forums on religion's role in the public sphere. These culminated in a conference on 24 March, titled "Further thoughts on Religious Pluralism," in which some sixty individuals from government, civil society, media, and faith-based groups attended. Participants consult in small groups at the "Further thoughts on Religious Pluralism" conference.Aydan Ozoguz, the German government's State Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Integration, sponsored the conference. The event was co-hosted by the Baha'i community of Germany and the Anne Frank Foundation, an organization dedicated to human rights education and fostering dialogue between groups of diverse backgrounds. In the opening comments, Mrs. Ozoguz spoke about the common aspiration among all religions for peace and harmony. "Religion shapes trust in our fellow human beings and in the possibility of establishing social cohesion," she said. She highlighted the supportive and compassionate response of many Germans to the influx of refugees in the summer of 2015 as an example of how faith can animate action and service to others. "Dedicating ourselves to the well-being of our fellow human beings is essential to building solidarity and a strong sense of community." Mrs. Ozoguz also included in her address a passage from Baha'u'llah as an example of the call of religion to humanity to rise to high ideals: "Consort with all religions with amity and concord, that they may inhale from you the sweet fragrance of God. Beware lest amidst men the flame of foolish ignorance overpower you." Addressing the participants on behalf of the Baha'i community of Germany, Saba Detweiler stated that "bringing people together for peace is at the heart of every religion. This is a facet of true religion." Relationships in society between various groups and even between neighbors are too often superficial, she explained. What is required is a radical reconceptualization of human relations in which people see themselves as fundamentally part of one human family and regard each other with respect, compassion, and understanding. At the heart of the conference was the idea that, because religion plays a central role in the lives of the majority of the human race, its place in society must be examined deeply and better understood. Yet this message was not simply a call for religion to be regarded as a constructive force in society. It also presented a challenge: if religion is to contribute to social harmony and greater bonds of friendship between people, religious leadership and religious communities need to reflect profoundly on those aspects of belief and practice that can create divisions and foster prejudice. At the same time, if religion's role is to become an increasingly positive force for harmony in society, social institutions will need to reshape their relationship with religion and let go of many of the harmful assumptions that leave little to no room for religion to play a part in the public sphere. A number of other important themes were discussed over the course of the day. For instance, Daniel Bax, Editor for the German daily newspaper Tageszeitung, Die Taz spoke about the importance of dialogue dispelling perceived clashes in identity and belief. "No one will disagree that religion has an influence on culture," he stated. "Nowadays, however, this notion of influence is misused. Culture has become falsely conceptualized as something that is static and limited to certain characteristics." Mr. Bax challenged this view of culture and its relationship to identity. People, he argued, have many different dimensions to their identity. "These perceived clashes of different opinions, cultures, etc., have to be teased apart through dialogue in order to come to an understanding of how we in our diversity can live together in harmony. People are not only defined by their religious beliefs but have many other characteristics, qualities, and talents that can contribute to the common good. The concept of 'the other' has to be challenged. It cannot be simply that a person becomes 'the other' because he or she has a different religious belief." Such a mindset, he explained, can lead to the conception that "others" are "enemies." Prof. Heiner Bielefeldt, former UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief and professor at Friedrich-Alexander University in Erlangen-Nurnberg, also addressed the conference. "We need spaces to constantly remind ourselves of freedom of religion and belief and develop our understanding of it further. This is not done by dividing every one up into groups first and then trying to build bridges between them, but rather by creating open structures, where differences do appear, but because of a topic of common interest, they go away or enrich or at least can be resolved." Reflecting on the event, Ms. Detweiler commented: "With this conference, we hoped to open a space for societal actors from academia, media, civil society and religious communities, to engage in exploring the role of religion in the public sphere and its relationship to social harmony and progress in a diverse society." The conference, she explained, represented one step forward in an ongoing dialogue that will need to keep building momentum in the coming months and years. Looking ahead, the Baha'i community of Germany and the Anne Frank Foundation plan to continue their collaboration in advancing this important dialogue in their society.

52.5186925

13.3996024

OSLO

Norway

Distinguished composer casts light on prisoner's poems

OSLO, Norway — At a recent major international music festival, one composition stood out in particular for its portrayal of faith and spiritual transformation under great oppression. Well-known Norwegian composer Lasse Thoresen was inspired by the poetry of Mahvash Sabet, a Baha'i imprisoned in Iran for her faith. His musical composition, Prison Poems, shares the title of the volume of Mrs. Sabet's poetry, adapted into English from Persian. For Mr. Thoresen, what inspired him most about the poems is the story of transformation brought about through suffering and the potential of the human spirit to transcend external conditions and meet hatred with love. "Mahvash Sabet has been held in prison under terrible conditions for nearly ten years. She has endured torture and abuse," Mr. Thoresen said. "We often think of those who are subjected to such treatment as victims. But there is nothing in Mahvash Sabet's poetry indicating that she sees herself as a victim." "We are dealing with spiritual resources that first unfold in critical situations," he continued. "We get to follow Mahvash Sabet on her journey into the darkness and suffering of prison, through the shattering of her identity, and finally to her ascent into a state of luminous love.” Mrs. Sabet was arrested in 2008 and jailed along with the six other members of the Yaran, an informal council of seven Baha'i individuals in Iran responsible for managing the affairs of the Iranian Baha'i community. After 1983 when the government had dissolved the national and local Baha'i administration, the Baha'i community established this informal arrangement with the full knowledge of the authorities. Mrs. Sabet and the other six members of the Yaran were held without charge for over a year and a half. Before their trial began in early 2010, they had received only about one hour's access to their legal counsel and had undergone appalling treatment in prison. After a trial characterized by lack of due legal process, they were convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison for, among other things, espionage, propaganda against the regime, and spreading corruption on earth. When that initial sentence was met with international condemnation, the appeals court revoked three of the charges against them and reduced their sentences to ten year terms. (See Editor’s note below.) The premier of the musical composition Prison Poems coincided with the release of a Norwegian translation of Mahvash Sabet's book of poetry, upon which his work is based.Throughout the course of her incarceration, Mrs. Sabet, an educator by profession, has been writing poetry. The quality and volume of the poems she has produced is an astonishing feat considering the harsh conditions of her imprisonment. Journalist Roxana Saberi who shared a cell in Evin prison with Mrs. Sabet and Fariba Kamalabadi, another member of the Yaran, has previously described the cell they were kept in, a room four by five meters in size with no beds or pillows. A piece written for the Washington Post recalls that the two women were permitted one pen between them, which they highly cherished. On the fifth anniversary of Mrs. Sabet's imprisonment, a collection of her poetry was adapted into English and published. The volume, Prison Poems, has attracted widespread acclaim both for the literary quality of the poems and its moving portrayal of the sufferings of Iran's Baha'is and Mrs. Sabet's fellow prisoners in Iran's notorious Evin and Raja'i Shahr prisons. For Mr. Thoresen, the intensity of the poetry was such that he did not want to put the words themselves to music, but rather to create a "sound scenography" around the poems. "I didn't want to have the texts sung," he explained. "They are too naked, too pared down. They are so authentic that I didn't want to embellish them." The resulting piece creates a striking audio backdrop for selected poems which are read by Bahiyyih Nakhjavani, a renowned author living in France, who adapted Mrs. Sabet's poems into English. It also features an intricate solo flute melody representing the emotional content of the material, as well as recordings of prayers being chanted by Mrs. Kamalabadi, to whom many of Mrs. Sabet's poems are dedicated. Roxana Saberi's recollections of the kindness shown to her by these two imprisoned members of the Yaran—Mahvash Sabet and Fariba Kamalabadi—illustrate the compassion and love infusing Mrs. Sabet's poetry, compassion that extends to her fellow inmates and even her captors. In one of her poems, she writes: The shriek of birds at dawn confirmsthat it's long since nightingales sang in this garden.But though we say nothing, our silence affirmsThat we weep for the violets hidden among these thorns. I have written a message on a nasturtium leafand hung it on my door, like a charm.It says: 'There's a warm heart waiting here,and a mother's open arms.' Mr. Thoresen's piece premiered at the Oslo International Church Music Festival in March 2017. The concert also coincided with the release of a Norwegian translation of Prison Poems. Both the concert and the publication received widespread national and regional media coverage, including three major newspapers and two radio programs in Norway. (Editor’s note: On 18 April 2017, a change was made to paragraph 8 to accurately reflect the current prison sentence of the former members of the Yaran, which is set at 10 years.) (Update, 26 November 2017: A high-quality recording of Prison Poems is now available online.)

59.9133301

10.7389701

BIC NEW YORK

Ominous wave of Yemen arrests raises alarm

BIC NEW YORK, United States — Orders for the arrest of at least 25 Baha'is have been issued by certain authorities in Sana'a who are harassing the Yemeni Baha'is and pressuring them to recant their faith. The baseless and nonsensical accusations levelled against the Baha'is include showing kindness and displaying rectitude of conduct in order to attract people to their Faith. These accusations bear a striking resemblance to those encountered by the Baha'is in Iran, and in fact, reports indicate the influence of Iranian authorities behind incidents transpiring in Yemen. Recent events constitute disturbing developments in a series of assaults heaped upon the Yemeni Baha'i community. These include the 2013 arrest and ongoing court case of Mr. Hamed bin Haydara, as well as the mass arrest of over 60 participants, half of whom were Baha'is, at an educational gathering in 2016. Mr. Kaiwan Qaderi, who was among those arrested, has been in prison for over eight months. Also, just weeks ago, an employee of the Red Cross who is a Baha'i was arrested on 5 April in Sana'a simply because of his faith. "We call upon the international community to unitedly denounce these alarming and ominous actions undertaken by specific authorities in Yemen, including the National Security and the Prosecutor's Office and demand that they stop this recent wave of arrests and release the Baha'is in prison, who are in grave danger," said Bani Dugal, principal representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. "Let us not," was her strong plea, "stand by and allow a case of tyranny and injustice against a religious community to unfold." Mr. Badi'u'llah Sana'i, a prominent civil engineer in Sana'a Yemen, recently arrested for being a Baha'i.Immediately preceding the call for their arrest, on Monday 17 April, dozens of Baha'is received telephone calls between 10:30 p.m. and midnight and were told that they should appear in court the following morning. Aware of recent efforts to persecute the Baha'is and given that no official court order had been presented to them, the Baha'is agreed to send several lawyers in their stead. However, one Baha'i, Mr. Badi'u'llah Sana'i, a prominent civil engineer in Yemen followed the advice given to him at his workplace and appeared at court on 18 April. He was immediately arrested, confirming the suspicion that the request for Baha'is to appear at court was a ploy for their arrest. On 19 April, two additional Baha'is, including Mr. Walid Ayyash, a member of a prominent Yemeni tribe, were arrested by authorities as they were driving from the city of Ibb on route to Hudaydah. Their whereabouts are presently unknown and concerns are mounting as to their safety. Many Baha'i families in Sana'a had to leave their homes in order to avoid being unjustly detained, including Mr. Haydara's wife, who has been fighting for his release for over three years while caring for their three daughters and is now herself on the list of those to be arrested. During a turbulent period of civil conflict in Yemen in recent years, the members of the Baha'i community there have refused to side with one group or another and have instead endeavored to serve all people, placing particular emphasis on a youthful generation eager to dedicate its energies to the regeneration of their society. Many Yemeni leaders from various factions have already expressed sympathy with the Baha'i community. Even amongst the Houthi authorities in Sana'a within whose jurisdiction these persecutions are taking place, some key figures, including a minister, have expressed dissatisfaction with the continuous persecution of the Baha'is, and some have even condemned these recent attacks through social media. "We are confident in the support of many more fair-minded people of Yemen of whatever group or strata, who surely agree that the Baha'i community should be permitted to live alongside others and contribute to the betterment of their society, especially during such a difficult time for their country," said Ms. Dugal.

NIKKI

Benin

Oneness and equality inspire enthroned chief

NIKKI, Benin — In the West African country of Benin, a chief of the Fula people is focusing on the unity of the diverse populations of his land. The Fula are widely dispersed across North Africa. They are regarded as the largest nomadic pastoral community in the world—although in more recent times many have settled and now work as farmers, merchants, and artisans, among other occupations. A predominantly Muslim community, it was the Fula people who spread Islam across West Africa, and traditionally, Fula chiefs have been Muslim. For the first time, this position of moral and customary authority for the approximately 100,000 Fulani living in the area is held by a Baha’i. High Chief Djaouga Abdoulaye, a 76-year-old retired school teacher, was enthroned in July of last year. He became a Baha’i in the 1980s when the Faith initially came to Benin. This change in leadership signaled a new precedent, which was at first met with reservations by certain members of society. However, High Chief Djaouga’s example, and in particular his commitment to unity and oneness, have contributed to harmonious ties between local clergy and tribal leaders in the region. His enthronement ceremony was a vibrant and joyful gathering that attracted 5,000 people and reflected the principle of unity in diversity. The event was also broadcast on national radio and television. Members of the community outside the palace of High Chief Djaouga Abdoulaye, also referred to as Junwuro Makayra“The size of this ceremony was without precedent,” said Saadou Saidou, who attended the event. “The fact that Junwuro (High Chief Djaouga) is an intellectual and, above all, that he has the qualities he has, means that we, his subjects, know that great things will be done during his reign.” Speaking about the influence of the Baha’i Teachings in his life, High Chief Djaouga said that the principles of the oneness of humanity and the equality of men and women, guided by a high moral standard, have inspired his understanding of leadership. “Since I became a Baha’i, I have begun to understand the standard of excellence put forth in the Baha’i Writings,” he said. His commitment to justice and hope for strengthening unity comes through in his decisions. The High Chief’s court has emerged as a place his subjects can turn to for the resolution of conflicts, where the wealthy will not receive special favors, where bribery has no place, and where one’s social position will not influence the decision. When asked about his goals and hopes for his community, High Chief Djaouga stated that he wishes to help his traditionally nomadic people find a solution to the difficulties caused by being considered stateless and therefore unable to obtain proper identity papers. Above all, he hopes to foster unity among the Fula people.

9.899685

3.178025421161518

BRUSSELS

Belgium

Peace-building requires new capacities, empowerment

BRUSSELS, Belgium — Building and sustaining peace in societies that are undergoing violent conflict remains a formidable challenge before humanity. In recent years, a growing number of governments and non-governmental organizations interested in advancing peace-building efforts in conflict-afflicted societies have focused on the relationship between resilience of local populations and the capacity for a successful transition to peace. Recently in the context of the Global Strategy of the European Union on Foreign and Security Policy, a call for contributions on the theme of resilience was issued. In response, the Brussels Office of the Baha'i International Community (BIC) submitted a statement titled "Peace and Resilience: Engaging Effectively at the Local Level." The statement addresses the importance of appreciating and drawing on local capacities within a population: "One of the defining characteristics that has emerged in the conversation on resilience is the attempt to look for existing sources of strength and capacity at the local level within conflict-affected societies and seek to build on these as a vehicle for lasting transformation." "While insights and resources from international actors are essential, a strength-based framework will recognize that peace is not transposed from outside, but must be driven by constructive sources within," the statement continues. Drawing on the points above, the BIC argues that local communities should be seen as the drivers of their own peace-building efforts, from the conception of a process through its implementation and follow through. While it states that peace cannot be imposed on any group from the outside, the document also acknowledges the critical role of international interventions in empowering societies facing conflict. According to the BIC, what is important in these interventions is the attitude:The particular posture adopted is instrumental in creating a climate in which local skills, knowledge and capacities can develop and find full expression. A truly participatory form of engagement allows peace-building processes to draw on the understanding of those who have insights into their immediate social reality, appreciate cultural dynamics and concerns, are able to identify and navigate existing local networks, and can discern needs and opportunities.—Baha'i International CommunityThe BIC's contribution comes at a time when Baha'is worldwide are gaining new insights about the development of vibrant and harmonious communities. At the heart of their efforts is the conviction that local populations should and can support their own material and spiritual advancement. "The experience of the Baha'i community, while modest, is yielding some very important insights," comments Rachel Bayani, representative of the BIC. "We are finding that to create the societal conditions as well as the individual and collective commitment to peace-building requires the cultivation of spiritual capacities," she continues. "For instance, it is critical that we learn how to build the capacity to forgive others after being profoundly wronged or to sacrifice short-term gains that may only profit a few for the benefit of the whole, including taking actions for the prosperity of generations to come. "Ultimately, the goal of peace-building should be to address the underlying conditions that caused the conflict in the first place. For this to happen, the different segments of society have to learn to see that they are interdependent—that they are not inherently in conflict with each other. They need to see their diversity as an opportunity, rather than as a threat."

50.8465573

4.351697

BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE

Festival of Ridvan celebrated around the world

BAHA'I WORLD CENTRE — For 12 days at the end of April and beginning of May, Baha'i communities around the world celebrated their most holy festival: Ridvan. This annual festival marks the anniversary of the days Baha'u'llah spent along the River Tigris in Baghdad. In 1863, Baha'u'llah stayed in a garden on the banks of the Tigris River for 12 days, during which His many admirers in the city came to bid Him farewell. Baha'u'llah announced to the friends gathered with Him during those days that He was God's Messenger for a new age, foretold in the world's scriptures. He called the garden they were gathered in "Ridvan," meaning "paradise." The Ridvan period was also a time when Baha'u'llah proclaimed the foundational spiritual principles that lie at the heart of His teachings—signaling the arrival of a new stage in the evolution of the life of humanity, characterized by peace and an end to violence. Today, the festival of Ridvan is the most joyous of Baha'i holy days. In villages, towns, and cities around the world, Baha'i communities celebrate these special days with gatherings open to all. A Ridvan celebration in Manurewa, New ZealandIn thousands of localities around the globe on the first day of Ridvan, Baha'is also vote for their local governing councils. And throughout the 12-day festival of Ridvan, national conventions are held in some 180 countries and territories, during which delegates gather to vote for their National Spiritual Assembly, a nine-member council responsible for guiding, coordinating, and stimulating the activities of the Baha'is in its jurisdiction. Baha'i elections are distinct for their lack of nomination and campaigning. This year, national elections took place over two weekends: 22-23 April and 29-30 April. Every year on the first day of Ridvan, the Universal House of Justice addresses a message to the Baha'is of the World. This year's message calls attention to the reality that "humanity's ultimate well-being is dependent upon its differences being transcended and its unity firmly established." "Every contribution Baha'is make to the life of their society," it states, "is aimed at fostering unity; every community-building endeavour is directed towards the same end."

NEW YORK

United States

Global campaign launches for imprisoned Baha'i leaders

NEW YORK — The Baha'i International Community is launching a global campaign calling for the immediate release of the seven Iranian Baha'i leaders, unjustly imprisoned now for nine years. The campaign, which takes the theme “Not Another Year,” raises awareness about the seven women and men unjustly arrested in 2008 and sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for their religious beliefs. This sentence was reduced to 10 years in 2015 after the overdue application of a new Iranian Penal Code. "Our expectation is that these seven brave individuals will be released in the coming year as they complete their sentences," said Bani Dugal, the principal representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. "But the reality is that they never should have even been arrested or imprisoned in the first place and that, under the terms of Iranian law, they should long ago have been released on conditional discharge. "In fact these seven, their families, and, indeed, the entire Iranian Baha'i community are all subject to injustice and cruelty, to oppression and tyranny. They all face unjust policies of economic strangulation, the unabated denial of access to higher education, and unprosecuted and malicious attacks on Baha'is and their properties, not to mention extensive negative propaganda in the official media," she said. In a message addressed to the Baha'is of Iran on the occasion of the anniversary of the imprisonment of the seven, the Universal House of Justice states: "Some of the events of the past year have left no doubt in the minds of the people of Iran and beyond, that the rigid fanaticism and worldly considerations of some among the religious leaders are the real motive for all the opposition and oppression against the Baha'is." It further states: "the representatives of the country on the international stage are no longer able to deny that these acts of discrimination are in response to matters of belief and conscience. Officials, lacking any convincing explanation for their irrational conduct and unconcerned at the damage done by their narrow policies to the name and credibility of the country, find themselves unable even to give a plausible answer to why they are so apprehensive about the existence of a dynamic Baha'i community in that land." The campaign for the seven imprisoned Baha'is, which begins today, aims to secure the immediate release of the seven, who are Fariba Kamalabadi, Jamaloddin Khanjani, Afif Naeimi, Saeid Rezaie, Mahvash Sabet, Behrouz Tavakkoli, and Vahid Tizfahm, the eldest of whom is over eighty years in age. The seven Baha'i leaders imprisoned in Tehran in 2008 are pictured with their spouses prior to their arrests.Similar to campaigns from previous years, it commemorates the anniversary of the arrest of six of the seven on 14 May 2008. It will be supported by videos, songs, and activities designed to call attention to their plight. The campaign this year also focuses on all the events they have missed during their nine years in prison, the joys—and sorrows—of day-to-day life with their families and loved ones. "All seven were married with children and, prior to their arrests, had rich family lives," said Ms. Dugal. "All seven were also extremely active in working for the betterment of their community—not to mention Iranian society as a whole. "Further, their long-running imprisonment has meant, among other things, that they have missed out on the birth of numerous grandchildren, the joyous weddings of children and close relatives, and the funerals of family members and dear friends. "They have been forced to celebrate their national and religious holidays in prison, instead of in the company of their loved ones. And, while in prison, they have been unable to tend to their farms and businesses, which have languished or, in at least one case, been destroyed by the government," she said. The Baha'i International Community calls on the Iranian government to immediately release them, as well as the other 86 Baha'is currently behind bars in Iran—all held solely for their religious beliefs. More background about the campaign can be found at a special section of the website of the Baha'i International Community.

40.7127281

-74.0060152

AGUA AZUL

Colombia

Video shows development of Colombia Temple

AGUA AZUL, Colombia — In Norte del Cauca, a steady stream of developments continues to unfold as the community prepares for the completion of a local Baha'i House of Worship. Although this area of the country has experienced decades of rich developments in the spiritual and material advancement of its people, the announcement in 2012 of plans to construct a House of Worship there have inspired surrounding communities to reach new heights of service, enrich the devotional aspects of community life, and strengthen the bonds of fellowship and unity. Just released, new video footage highlights recent progress in the construction process, which began in January 2017. Progress is well under way on the Temple in Agua Azul, in the Norte del Cauca area of Colombia. It is anticipated that the House of Worship will be completed in early 2018.Foundational work for the surrounding auxiliary structures has also been initiated. In time, these buildings will be painted in the bright colors traditional to buildings of the region. Norte del Cauca is one of five localities designated by the Universal House of Justice in 2012 to have a local Baha'i House of Worship. The Temple is expected to be completed in early 2018.

3.1866659

-76.4458778

SANA’A

Yemen

Tribal leaders stand in solidarity with Yemeni Baha'is

SANA'A, Yemen — Hundreds of Yemenis—led by tribal leaders and human rights activists—gathered on Monday morning, 15 May 2017, to denounce the recent call for the arrests of several Yemeni Baha'is and to demand their immediate release. Currently, five Baha'is, including tribal leader Walid Ayyash, remain in prison or detention under the direction of authorities in Sana'a. The detainees have not been allowed to receive visitors. Many more Baha'is are under the threat of being arrested. "There are clear indications from reports within the country that certain authorities there have been instructed from Iran to carry out these unjust actions and have no other motive but to persecute the Baha'i community," said Bani Dugal, principal representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. "Not surprisingly, such interference from another country is arousing solidarity among the Yemeni people on an unprecedented scale in defense of the Baha'is, who are their friends, brothers, sisters, neighbors, and fellow tribespeople. It has also led to far greater awareness of the Baha'i Faith among the people of Yemen. And of course history shows that if you persecute the innocent, their cause will only spread." Leading the campaign against Baha'is in Yemen has been a member of the Prosecution Office in Sana'a, Rajeh Zayed. Reports indicate that, during the peaceful demonstrations on Monday morning, Mr. Zayed threatened the crowd with a weapon and attempted to incite violence against those present. Despite shots being fired by security forces, the crowd remained peaceful, and fortunately no one was hurt. "These Yemeni tribespeople and activists have courageously shown their support for the Baha'is, despite themselves becoming targets of attack," said Ms. Dugal. "Their expression of solidarity, especially during such a difficult time for their country, is sincerely appreciated by the Baha'i International Community." "Indeed," Ms. Dugal added, "their actions testify to the principle of the oneness of humankind and show that we are closely tied together so that the pain and joy of one becomes the pain and joy of another. We ardently hope and pray that the senseless persecution of the Baha'is in Yemen comes to an end and energies can be directed instead towards loftier aims such as an end to the violence ravaging the country and the eradication of disease and malnutrition now afflicting major segments of the population across that land." (Editor's Note: A change was made to paragraphs 5 and 6 on 18 May 2017 to reflect new reports that indicate shots had been fired by security forces.)

15.3538569

44.2058841

VENICE

Italy

'Luminous, abstract beauty': Artist's impact revisited

VENICE, Italy — As thousands of art lovers from all around the world flock to Venice over the coming months for its famous Biennale exhibition, one of the city's major museums is hoping to re-establish an American painter as a significant figure in the development of modern art. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, situated on the south bank of Venice's Grand Canal, is honoring Mark Tobey (1890-1976), who became a member of the Baha'i Faith in 1918. Born in Wisconsin, Tobey was one of the twentieth century's most cosmopolitan of artists. An inveterate traveler-he eventually settled in Switzerland‒Tobey was always better known in Europe than in his homeland, his importance overshadowed by his younger American counterparts from the 'Abstract Expressionist' school, notably Jackson Pollock, whose large scale canvases of poured and dripped paint revolutionized art in the 1950s. Yet, as this exhibition demonstrates, it is timely to re-evaluate Tobey's influence on the development of so-called 'all-over abstraction'. Curator Debra Bricker Balken has spent ten years bringing some 70 works together, from 40 different collections, and is captivated by Tobey's painting. “I continue to be sustained just by the astonishing beauty of this work," said Ms. Bricker Balken. "Tobey's 'white writing' is luminous, it is metaphysical and is also elegiac... It draws on his own interior life in a way that we don't see with many of the artists with whom he is grouped." Tobey, whose mature 'white writing' works are made up of pulsing webs of lines inspired by oriental calligraphy, explicitly acknowledged the direct influence of the Baha'i Faith on his painting. William Seitz, curator of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City in the 1960s, wrote that Tobey "made line the symbol of spiritual illumination, human communication and migration, natural form and process, and movement between levels of consciousness." "He has often stated," explained Seitz, "that there can be no break between nature, art, science, religion, and personal life... Few religions have given the concept of oneness such pointed emphasis, and few modern artists have dealt with it as explicitly as has Tobey." Mark Tobey Linee della citta(Lines of the City), 1945 Tempera su carta 45.4 x 55.25 cm Addison Gallery of American Art, Phillips Academy, Andover, MA, Lascito Edward Wales Root, 1957.36High distinctions Towards the end of his life, Tobey was the recipient of some of the highest distinctions that the European art scene of his time could bestow. He won the gold medal at the Venice Biennale in 1958‒the first American painter to do so since 1895. In 1961, a major retrospective of his work was held at the Louvre in Paris, an unprecedented achievement for a living and American artist. But while Pollock and his New York-based contemporaries have long been given a prominent place in the history books, Tobey's influence on, and contribution to, the radical development in American abstract painting mid-century has been under-recognized. It is perhaps partly because of the small scale, the range, and the spirituality and delicacy of Tobey's works‒as well as his particularly personal approach, outside of any movement or 'school'‒that resulted in his being almost completely sidelined from the story of modern art. Yet his influence on other painters is known to have been significant. With paintings spanning the 1920s through to 1970, the Guggenheim exhibition surveys the breadth of Tobey's work and reveals its extraordinarily nuanced yet radical beauty. A restless experimenter, Tobey was never satisfied with just one approach to picture making, saying, "At a time when experimentation expresses itself in all forms of life, search becomes the only valid expression of the spirit." Art as worship In the Baha'i Faith, art is regarded as worship. "The more thou strivest to perfect it, the closer wilt thou come to God," wrote 'Abdu'l-Baha to the American portrait painter Juliet Thompson, who first introduced Mark Tobey to the Baha'i Faith. "That is to say, when thy fingers grasp the paintbrush, it is as if thou wert at prayer in the temple." Debra Bricker Balken believes that the Baha'i teachings clearly impacted Tobey's work. "I think that it is one of the features of his subject matter," she said. "His pictorial inventions and experimentations are linked with his deep faith actually, elaborating on his inner or spiritual life." Being a Baha'i gave Tobey's work its spiritual context and content as well as the freedom to find his own pictorial language to express it. Principles, such as the independent investigation of truth, are reflected in the evolutionary development of his paintings on display at the Guggenheim, and through the explicitly spiritual concepts he sought to express. His acceptance of the Baha'i Teachings challenged him to see oneness as the fundamental principle governing human interactions and social evolution in a new era of material progress and spiritual awakening. He described his paintings as a "kind of self-contained contemplation." "One is surrounded by the scientific, naturally one reflects it," he said, "but one needs the religious side. One might say the scientific aspect interests the mind, the religious side frees the heart." Mark Tobey Mondo(World), 1959 Tempera su cartone diametro 29.8 cm Collezione privata, New York'Breathtaking' response The subtlety and spirituality of Tobey's paintings is already impressing the first visitors to have viewed the Venice exhibition. "It's been very interesting to me to see the reactions of various figures who have seen this installation over the past few days," said Ms. Bricker Balken. "Everybody is just taken by the breathtaking, astonishing, luminous abstract beauty of these canvases. They are a surprise." When the exhibition travels to the Addison Gallery of American Art in Andover, Massachusetts, later in the year, it will be the first time in four decades that there has been a Tobey retrospective in the United States. "The notion of melding Eastern and Western traditions was very important and in the United States in the 1940s, it was perhaps not the most popular thing to do," said Judith Dolkart, the Addison's director, "but his embrace of a kind of universalism and also the notion that one could draw from more than one tradition was quite radical and important." 'Immense diversity' Guggenheim director Philip Rylands also believes Tobey's work is a combination of his spiritual orientation and his particular experience of twentieth century life. "When you see a retrospective monographic show like this, you get the hang of it," said Dr. Rylands. "The man's travails, his ups, his downs, his influences, when he stalled, when he was prolific, how the work changes, the figurative origins of his abstraction‒all those things come through and you get a sense of immense diversity and a richness of creativity." With the inclusion of two of Tobey's paintings in last year's hugely successful Abstract Expressionism show at the Royal Academy of Arts in London, and now with this ambitious exhibition in Venice, Debra Bricker Balken thinks that Tobey's legacy is ripe for reappraisal. "I hope so," she said. "In fact it's more than a hope or aspiration, I believe so." Dr. Rylands agrees. "I would like to think that all artists that are in the history books, who made wonderful art, will have their time again if they haven't got it already," he said. "Tobey richly deserves it." A World in Crisis In contemplating the significance of Tobey's contributions to the arts and more broadly to the advancement of thought, the principles that inspired him in his own time and found expression in his work are, perhaps more than ever before, relevant and needed today. "The root of all religions, from the Baha'i point of view, is based on the theory that man will gradually come to understand the unity of the world and the oneness of mankind," wrote Tobey in 1934. "It teaches that all the prophets are one... that science and religion are the two great powers which must be balanced if man is to become mature. I feel my work has been influenced by these beliefs. I've tried to decentralize and interpenetrate so that all parts of a painting are of related value... Mine are the Orient, the Occident, science, religion, cities, space, and writing a picture." Mark Tobey: Threading Light is at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice, until 10 September 2017 and at the Addison Gallery of American Art, Phillips Academy, Andover, Massachusetts, 4 November 2017-11 March 2018. Mark Tobey Cammino della storia(Advance of history), 1964 Guazzo e acquerello su carta 62.2 x 50.1 cm Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice

45.4371908

12.3345898

OTTAWA

Canada

Citizenship and Religion explored in Canada

OTTAWA, Canada — As the people of Canada prepare to celebrate 150 years since the confederation of their country, there has been a wide-ranging national conversation about the past, present, and future of relations between its diverse citizens. One aspect of this discussion has been the changing role of religion and spirituality in society in the context of increasing religious and ethnic diversity and a resurgence of Indigenous culture and ways of life. Over the last several years, the Baha'i community has spearheaded an initiative to bring together leading thinkers from all sectors of society to explore the place of religion in public life. A question before Canada's Baha'i Office of Public Affairs has been how to create a space for meaningful exploration, where a variety of insights can shed light on a topic and collective understanding can advance. A series of conferences held since 2013 in Montreal, Vancouver, and this year in Ottawa have aimed to foster such an environment and have invited prominent voices in Canada's public discourse to examine religion's role in society. In his opening remarks to this year’s conference in Ottawa from 8–9 May 2017, Geoffrey Cameron, representative of the Baha’i Community of Canada and chair of the program committee, said “This is a special conference that exists as a kind of ongoing conversation. It draws from Canada’s national interfaith networks, but it is not an interfaith conference in a conventional sense.” He continued: "What we want to do is help to frame an ongoing public conversation about the role of religion in Canadian society." Yasmin Ratansi (left), the first female Muslim Member of Parliament, sits with MPs John McKay (middle) and Garnett Genuis (right) at the conference in Ottawa on the role of religion in Canadian society."One of the questions that for us has been at the heart of this conversation is how the growing diversity of our population can be a resource for acting together," noted Gerald Filson, Director of Public Affairs for the Baha'i Community of Canada and former Chair of the Canadian Interfaith Conversation, which sponsored the event. "As Canada has become more religiously diverse, there has been an expectation that the public sphere should be secular, that overtly religious perspectives should not have a place in public discourse. While the intention of that kind of secularism has historically been to ensure greater equality between religious groups in public life, many have expressed concern that it also constrains people from participating fully in the life of society," said Mr. Cameron. Professor John Borrows, Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Law, observed in his keynote address to the conference, "There is a danger of replacing one kind of (religious) exclusivity with another kind of secular exclusivity, which can trap us in a singular narrative and banish valuable vocabularies of compassion." "Ideas must be placed in comparison and contrast to others. When I recognize my own views are partial I am open to expand my understanding," he continued. "As each wave of peoples joins our society, their stories need to be added to our stock of stories." Andrew Bennett, former Ambassador for Religious Freedom, added that so long as diverse religious and ethical views are advanced peacefully and in respect of human dignity, they have a place in our pluralistic society. A key theme at the conference was about the role of spiritual concepts and language in the process of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, and the implications of that process for the role of spirituality in public life. "Reconciliation is a spiritual conversation about our shared humanity and the kind of society we want to create for tomorrow," said Karen Joseph, CEO of the civil society group Reconciliation Canada. "Reconciliation is a way of life. It is a spiritual covenant." A major contribution made by philosopher and writer John Ralston Saul in his keynote address was that the approach to integrating religious diversity in Canada does not have to be defined by the perspectives on secularism that emerged in the context of 18th century France. "We have the opportunity to have a whole new conversation," he said. "We have to ask where we are, why do we belong here, and what are our obligations to each other." "We can't move forward while talking within a tradition of thought that is designed to eliminate difference. I believe that a gathering around spirituality is a gathering that recognizes complexity," Mr. Saul continued. The conference concluded with a panel discussion on Parliament Hill, bringing together Members of Parliament from three political parties, including Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party, and Yasmin Ratansi, Canada's first female Muslim MP. "Our aim with the conference was to show that it is possible to enrich our national public discourse by including a variety of religious and secular voices in conversation with each other," reflected Mr. Cameron. "Now we have to extend this discourse into other spaces, bringing the same commitment to mutual understanding and cooperation." The series of "Our Whole Society" conferences have engaged about 500 participants, and are sponsored by the members of the Canadian Interfaith Conversation, including the Baha'i Community of Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, Faith in Canada 150, and the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation.

45.4211435

-75.6900574

CAMBRIDGE

MASSACHUSETTS

United States

Bicentenaries highlight unity

CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts — As the Baha'i community prepares to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha'u'llah, the Harvard Divinity School is also commemorating its bicentenary. This confluence of noteworthy anniversaries has more in common than the mere overlap of dates. In the late 19th and first half of the 20th centuries, a number of eminent American philosophers, artists, and writers connected to both the Baha'i Faith and Harvard University were engaged in a dynamic, emerging discourse on unity. This was a subject of a recent presentation, which addressed how the Baha'i principle of unity expressed itself in the development of the American Baha'i community. The presentation took place at Harvard's Center for the Study of World Religions and was titled "The Religion of Unity and the Unity of Religion." It was given by Sasha Dehghani, a visiting scholar at Harvard, who is doing research on the Baha'i Faith as an independent world religion. "When I first arrived at Harvard," said Dr. Dehghani, "Prof. Francis Clooney, Director of the Center of the Study of World Religions, welcomed me by saying: 'We need religions today that create unity and tear down walls.'" Addressing how the concepts of unity and the oneness of humankind shaped Baha'i endeavors in the early years of the American Baha'i community, Dehghani highlighted major milestones and discussed some of the significant thinkers of that time. The earliest public mention of the Baha'i Faith in the United States was at the World's Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, where the concept of the unity of religions was among the most remarkable topics explored. The spirit that animated the World's Parliament that year inspired Sarah Farmer, the owner of the Green Acre Inn in Maine and one of America's early religious innovators, to offer conferences on progressive subjects in the sciences, arts, and religion. These gatherings brought together leading writers, educators, philosophers, artists, and activists and opened a space for ideas to be exchanged and for thought to advance. In his book Restless Souls: The Making of American Spirituality, historian Leigh Eric Schmidt comments on the impact of Green Acre on public discourse in the early twentieth century: "The Green Acre gatherings thrived for more than two decades; the World's Parliament lasted all of seventeen days." Sarah Farmer was one of America's early religious innovators. She owned the Green Acre Inn in Eliot, Maine, and offered conferences on progressive subjects in the sciences, arts, and religion. These gatherings brought together leading writers, educators, and philosophers. Farmer eventually became a Baha'i and travelled to Akka for pilgrimage at the turn of the century. When 'Abdu'l Baha visited America in 1912, he stayed at Green Acre. (Photo from the Eliot Baha'i Archives, published by 239days.com)Eventually, Sarah Farmer's work brought her into contact with the Baha'i Faith, and she traveled to Akka at the turn of the century to meet 'Abdu'l-Baha, who later visited Green Acre during His journey to America in 1912. Many of 'Abdu'l-Baha's talks in the United States over the course of that year focused on the unity of religions and unity among the races, particularly between black and white Americans. During the early twentieth century, a number of America's religious thinkers were in touch with Farmer or visited Green Acre and participated in the dynamic exchange of ideas that took place there. Among them were the Harvard scholars William James and W.E.B. Du Bois, two of the most prominent and influential American writers and philosophers of the time. William James, in turn, invited Ali Kuli Khan, an Iranian diplomat and prominent member of the Baha'i community, to give presentations on the Baha'i Faith at Harvard University. Du Bois, who had been a student of James, received his doctorate from Harvard and was the first African American to do so, graduating in 1895. His work as the founder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) brought him into contact with 'Abdu'l-Baha, who gave a speech at its fourth conference in 1912. Du Bois, as pointed out by Guy Mount in his research, later published the speech in the official magazine of the NAACP, along with a photograph of 'Abdu'l-Baha. A contemporary and close colleague of Du Bois, Alain Locke was also among the most eminent thinkers of the time. Locke was the first African American Rhodes Scholar, and he is often remembered as the "Dean" of the Harlem Renaissance. In a biography on Locke, Christopher Buck suggested that Du Bois may have been the one who introduced Locke to the Baha'i Faith. He received his PhD from Harvard in 1918, the same year he became a Baha'i. Du Bois and Locke's profound contributions to philosophy were recognized widely—the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. compared their influence to that of Plato and Aristotle. The early American Baha'i community also included Albert Vail and Stanwood Cobb, graduates of the Harvard Divinity School and prior Unitarian ministers. Vail published an impressive article on the Baha'i Faith emphasizing its principle of unity in the Harvard Theological Review in 1914. While the Harvard University and Green Acre represented significant meeting points for leading writers and philosophers of the time, Dehghani's lecture also noted that the influence of the emerging discourse on unity reached other prominent thinkers in the northeastern United States. The Lebanese-American artist, poet, and writer Kahlil Gibran lived in Boston in the early twentieth century. Best known for his work The Prophet, Gibran's writings explored the unity of humankind and of religion. Gibran was introduced to 'Abdu'l-Baha through Juliet Thompson, a Baha'i and fellow artist, and in the spring of 1912, he had an opportunity to sketch a portrait of 'Abdu'l-Baha and attended several of 'Abdu'l-Baha's talks. The pursuit of unity within the American Baha'i community expressed itself in the creation of devotional spaces open to all. In 1912, 'Abdu'l-Baha laid the cornerstone of the first Baha'i House of Worship in the Western hemisphere, which was dedicated in Chicago in 1953 and remains today a potent symbol of the unity of all people and religions. Dehghani noted that it was fortuitous that this bicentenary period allowed for an opportunity to reexamine such a critical issue—the unity of the human race. In reflecting on this moment, he commented that it is timely to consider the place of the Baha'i Faith among the world religions and the implications of the principle of the oneness of humankind, as set down by Baha'u'llah, at this moment in history.

42.3750997

-71.1056157

NEW YORK

United States

Murals as symbols of solidarity, resilience

NEW YORK — Marthalicia Matarrita is a Latina artist from New York City. Although her life is a world away from Iran, Ms. Matarrita’s artwork connected her with Education is Not a Crime, a street art campaign to raise awareness of the denial of education to Baha’i students in Iran. It is a formally instituted state policy of the Iranian government to ban the Baha’is, Iran’s largest religious minority, from teaching and studying in universities. Matarrita was born and raised in Harlem, a historic New York City neighborhood known as a center of African-American and Hispanic life and culture. Because of her own experience struggling with institutionalized injustice as she was pursuing an education in the city, Ms. Matarrita forged a personal connection with the stories of the Baha’i students for whom she painted a mural on a public school in Harlem. Her mural—a child and a flower symbolizing the seed that education plants—is just one of many across Harlem and around the world calling for equality through art as part of the Education is Not a Crime campaign. The story of the unusual street art campaign and the history of the human rights issue behind it are captured in the new documentary Changing the World, One Wall at a Time. Education is Not a Crime Education is Not a Crime was started by the Iranian-Canadian filmmaker Maziar Bahari in 2014. Mr. Bahari is not a Baha’i himself, but he has worked to expose the persecution of the Baha’is in Iran for several years, notably beginning with the release of his documentary To Light a Candle in 2014. Mr. Bahari’s background and work over the years connected him to the plight of the Iranian Baha’i community. In 2009, he was arrested under the charge of being a spy and imprisoned for four months. His prison experience was profoundly transformational, and upon his release he began to dedicate his life’s work to the improvement of human rights conditions in Iran. Many human rights activists, including Mr. Bahari, see the Baha’is in Iran as a barometer issue, meaning that if Baha’is are being mistreated, their civil liberties disrespected, and their human rights denied, it’s an indication that the government of Iran is not sincere in its claim to respect the human rights of any groups. Mr. Bahari’s work, both with the Education is Not a Crime campaign and To Light a Candle, draws attention to the distinctive response of the Iranian Baha’i community to oppression through the Baha’i Institute for Higher Education (BIHE), an informal university program that is implemented in living rooms and through online courses. Over the last thirty years, BIHE has assisted thousands of Baha’i youth to complete their education in a number of fields. Many students have continued onto their masters and doctorate programs at well-known universities around the world which have accepted its graduates for further studies. The mural “To Blossom” by artist Tatyana Fazalizadeh is located at PS92 in Harlem. It is a part of the Education is Not a Crime campaign, which raises awareness about the denial of education to Iranian Baha’i.Raising consciousness through street art Denial of education in Iran is a human rights issue. Street art may not be the most obvious choice for raising awareness about such a topic, but its uncommon nature is one of the reasons why the campaign has been so successful, said Saleem Vaillancourt, the coordinator of Education is Not a Crime. “Essentially, as far as human rights in Iran are concerned, the automatic audience is probably already saturated. Everybody who is going to know about it knows about it,” said Mr. Vaillancourt. “So it’s about finding people who don't know about the denial of education to Baha’is in Iran, but who care because they care about education, or religious freedom, or things like the arts, or they care because they connect with the issue on a personal level.” The campaign, while global in reach, had a particular focus in Harlem because of the community’s response to the message about access to education. Initially, this response surprised the campaign, said Mr. Vaillancourt. “We would go into the neighborhood and say, ‘We’re painting these murals because there’s this group of people in a country far away and something you’ve never heard about is happening to them.’ And it was honestly a very convoluted attempt to explain what we were doing and why we were doing it. But in Harlem, people understood very quickly. They would say, ‘Yes, education is important, and people in our community have been denied it too,’” said Mr. Vaillancourt. This response to the campaign was not limited to Harlem—around the world, Education is Not a Crime has touched very diverse populations. In South Africa, the murals painted in Cape Town and Johannesburg created a parallel between the persecution of the Baha’is in Iran and apartheid. The mural painted in New Delhi, India, evoked the long-ingrained caste system, illustrating education as the way to move beyond prejudice. “Street art acts as a social equalizer in a country such as India with huge economic disparities,” said Harsh Raman, the artist of the mural in New Delhi. “You can be rich or poor, but everyone can enjoy public art and is free to have their own interpretation of it. It’s art for everyone but can be owned by no one.” The film: Changing the World, One Wall at a Time The team working with Education is Not a Crime combined the analog format of murals with the digital nature of sharing videos and pictures of the campaign online to create a dynamic message that reached people all around the world. Changing the World, One Wall at a Time evolved from the shorter videos that were posted and shared from the early days of the campaign. The worldwide nature of the campaign is reflected in the film, featuring interviews with the artists involved, as well as members of communities around the world reacting to the art on the walls of their buildings. “The film was this amazing opportunity to tell the story of these artists and their innovative, artistic responses to the issue. It was an opportunity to put, for example, an Iranian Baha’i and an American Latina woman together to share their commonalities and understand the different ways they overcame the problems in their lives,” said Mr. Vaillancourt. “It was just an extraordinary bringing together of pieces.” The Changing the World, One Wall at a Time world premiere was in Harlem on 5 May 2017. It will premiere in Los Angeles this Monday, 5 June at Raleigh Studios (details and tickets are available online). Information on other screenings can be found on the Education is Not a Crime website. The release of the documentary online is anticipated in several months.

40.7127281

-74.0060152

MELBOURNE

Australia

Video seeks to bring sacred words to masses

MELBOURNE, Australia — Released last Friday, a new music video features Australian popular singer and performer Nathaniel Willemse singing a prayer by Baha’u’llah. The song, titled “Power Over All Things,” was composed this year in honor of the two hundred year anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, which is being commemorated in October. Inspired by the hopeful vision in the Baha’i writings, the song is one of countless musical expressions unfolding across the planet in this momentous year, ranging from grassroots initiatives to national and international projects undertaken by professional artists. Nathaniel, who is familiar with the Baha’i teachings, is originally from South Africa but rose to success as a pop singer in Australia. He chose this project because he felt connected to the beauty of the words in the prayer and the relevance of its message for the world today. Pop musician Nathaniel Willemse (credit: Eva Rinaldi), https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nathaniel_Willemse_2014.jpg“I feel that this is a very powerful prayer for aid and assistance," he said, "and in this much sensitive time around the world we really need more of these powerful words available.” The song was composed by musical producer and songwriter Anise K., whose belief in the power of music to touch the human heart and to inspire has been largely influenced by the Baha’i Faith. As the idea for the video was forming, Anise K. explained that he and Nathaniel consulted about capturing the right tone. In developing the concept, Anise K. wanted it to be filmed in nature, evoking Baha’u’llah’s love for nature and His retreat into the wilderness for two years of His life. Regarding the selection of the lyrics for the song, a prayer was selected which was revealed by Baha’u’llah in a tablet to Queen Victoria in 1868: "O my God! I ask Thee, by Thy most glorious Name, to aid me in that which will cause the affairs of Thy servants to prosper, and Thy cities to flourish. Thou, indeed, hast power over all things!" In that well-known message, Baha’u’llah emphasized the unity of the human race and praised Queen Victoria for abolishing slavery and for entrusting to representatives of the people the powers of government. Reflecting on the project and its aspirations, Nathaniel explained: “I hope that this will be a prayer that will uplift people and bring them together.”

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144.9631608

TANNA

Vanuatu

Design of Vanuatu Temple unveiled

TANNA, Vanuatu — In a momentous development for the island of Tanna in Vanuatu, the design for the local Baha’i House of Worship was unveiled today. The design is captivating in its simple yet striking form, inspired by the coconut and banyan trees of the island and the natural forms of the landscape. “This structure will be the embodiment of serenity and represent the archipelago’s history and culture,” said Ashkan Mostaghim, the Temple’s architect. Double-sided roofs made of reeds and sugar-cane leaves rise to a central point, making the Temple appear as a nine-pointed star. The walls of the House of Worship are designed to be created using stakes and plaited reeds, drawing on local architecture of the region. “The interior space is defined by light,” said Mr. Mostaghim. Throughout the day, light will stream through the open screens and delicate glass oculus. The Temple has space for 300 visitors and a choir to be present—both for community devotions and private meditation and prayer in a space of serenity. An interior view of the Temple, which will seat 300 people.A jubilant celebration in Tanna on 18 June 2017 marked the unveiling of the Temple’s design. The program included readings from different sacred texts, signifying that the Temple is open to all. The House of Worship will enhance the vibrant community life on Tanna. A sense of collective ownership of the Temple, even before its design had been unveiled, was already present in the consciousness of the island’s inhabitants. In the early stages of the design process, numerous people from the island, including chiefs and other tribal leaders, submitted ideas for the structure of the central edifice and gathered for meetings to discuss its purpose and implications for their society. “The design of the House of Worship in Tanna has been inspired by the Baha’i writings, and we have endeavored to portray its principles in the structure,” said the architect. The Temple will uniquely symbolize the unity of all people and the integral connection of worship of God and service to humanity.

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169.33450144830016

TANNA

Vanuatu

Unveiling galvanizes island

TANNA, Vanuatu — Over a thousand people gathered Sunday, 18 June, for the unveiling of the design for the local Baha'i House of Worship in Tanna in the island nation of Vanuatu, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. Hailing from Tanna, neighboring islands, and further afield, participants included government dignitaries, tribal chiefs, and representatives from various religious groups including Yapinap, an indigenous belief system. During his remarks at the gathering, President of Nikoletan Tanna Island Council of Chiefs, Chief Freeman Nariu Sawaram, emphasized the importance of unity, sharing the analogy of the diverse organs of the human body working together for a common purpose. "We are here today to launch a starting point in a journey by the Baha'i community," he said. "We have to join hands, work together, and forgive one another. Then we can achieve whatever the whole body requires and build a better Tanna." Many of the island's inhabitants were dressed in Tannese traditional costumes to welcome the unveiling of the Temple design."Unity is a strong powerful force for our nation that will change our society," said Chief Sawaram in an interview later. "The answer to progress and true development is unity—without this we cannot advance forward. Our people must know this truth." The event was a collective celebration for the island. Its inhabitants have come to see the House of Worship as a sacred space that will belong to all of their people. Plans for the raising of the Temple have been a rallying point for unity with a palpable impact on the sense of comradery and oneness among the island's population. "Our forefathers predicted that one day the people of the island would unite, work and live together, and consult with each other," said a prominent tribal leader, Chief Mikim Teinakou. "I see the fulfillment of their vision in this Temple." The Chairman of the Yapinap Nasuman Asul Peoples Association spoke about the impact of planning for a Temple in Tanna: "I praise the Baha'i community for this Temple, which will educate us to have respect for the sacred, to stop our disputes over land, and to bring respect and unity to our villages." Sunday's ceremony began with a devotional program that included writings from a number of major faiths and traditions, followed by singing and dancing, and then the unveiling of the Temple design. Celebrations began in the morning and continued with much joy and excitement through the afternoon, punctuated by prayer, song, and dance. "The unveiling of the design was amazing," said a youth from the nearby island of Efate. "It captures the culture of the Tannese people—how humble they are, how beautiful, how respectful, and how happy." Another participant remarked, "The unveiling ceremony brought so much joy to my heart that I am certain the transformation that the Temple will bring to our society will be great, so great."

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169.33450144830016

LIBREVILLE

Gabon

African leaders tackle environmental goals

LIBREVILLE, Gabon — When addressing issues of climate change, we need to adopt a holistic perspective, said the Baha’i International Community at a recent meeting on the environment that convened leaders in Africa. “We have to look at the spiritual and material dimensions. How do we live with nature harmoniously?” asked Solomon Belay, Representative of the BIC Office in Addis Ababa. “We need a coherent view of environmental issues and a plan based on that.” The meeting in Gabon from 10–11 June 2017 brought together around 45 representatives from United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), the PanAfrican Climate Justice Alliance, African Union Commission, the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), and the Pan-African Parliamentarian’s Network on Climate Change, among others. The BIC has been engaged in a conversation with UNEP about the contribution faith-based organizations can make to the UN’s environmental goals, and this month’s meeting was an opportunity for African leaders to build consensus around environmental issues in preparation for the third meeting of the UN Environmental Assembly at the end of the year. Participants at the seminar in Gabon discussed innovative environmental solutions that would accelerate the implementation of the UN’s sustainable development goals in Africa. While this meeting signals yet another advance in efforts to protect the environment, the conversation on the environment still remains relatively fragmented, said Dr. Belay. The Regional Consultation meeting for Africa Major Groups and Stakeholders from 10-11 June 2017 in Libreville, Gabon. BIC Representative Solomon Belay is sitting 3rd from the left.“The spiritual dimension is almost completely missing,” he commented. At the meeting, the BIC Office shared its statement, “Shared Vision, Shared Volition: Choosing Our Global Future Together,” which was originally prepared for COP21, the UN Conference on Climate Change, in December 2015. “Our relationship with nature should be examined at all levels,” said Dr. Belay, drawing attention to portions of the statement that call to individuals, institutions in society, and the community as a whole to embrace responsibility for change. “Establishing sustainable patterns of individual and collective life will require not only new technologies, but also a new consciousness in human beings, including a new conception of ourselves and our place in the world,” the statement reads. Following June’s meeting in Gabon, there are plans to hold another gathering with a greater emphasis on the contribution of faith-based organizations to environmental issues.

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9.454001

MADRID

Spain

Forced migration calls for faith in action

MADRID — In a stirring display of solidarity and good will, some 300 representatives of religious communities and civil society organizations gathered for a conference in Madrid on an issue of acute concern—forced migration. The event was held at the Iglesia de Jesus Church in Madrid on 20 June 2017, the International Day for Refugees. A poignant presentation by Reuters photographer Juan Medina captured the urgency of the refugee issue in Europe through a collection of his photographs and a video documenting the journey of refugees into Europe. “It’s important to show these images, however shocking, time and again—as many times as necessary,” said Mr. Medina. “Some say you can become desensitized by so many pictures of suffering, and they will have less of an effect. I think it’s important to tell their story, and remember the sufferings of those who had to leave their country.” “These photos show the harsh reality of what it means to be an immigrant. There is a sharp contrast between the exhausted refugees that are swept in by the shore, struggling to remain alive and locals strolling along the beach.” The gathering was enriched with artistic presentations, including a performance of indigenous music from Latin America.In 2015, the Spanish government pledged to the European Union to receive over 17,000 refugees. To date, 1,200 have arrived, prompting a growing discussion in the country. In recent years, the Baha’i community in Spain has recognized the necessity for a more substantial and profound dialogue on migration and the implications of having greater awareness of the issue. Its efforts have rested on the conviction that religion has a critical role to play in cultivating a common sense of humanity as well as in mobilizing communities to contribute to social harmony and peace. Together with a group of other civil society and faith-based organizations, the Baha’i community of Spain convened the recent conference, where diverse participants shared their experiences and renewed their commitment to take action in welcoming and supporting refugees. The event was also a forum through which participants sought to speak to the conscience of their people and kindle the light of compassion in Spanish society. “The purpose of this event is to underline the important role religious communities are playing in the reception and integration of refugees into their own communities and to give voice to the varied experiences and knowledge acquired through their contributions to society,” said Leila Sant Massarat, who chaired the gathering and represented the Baha’i community of Spain. “Regardless of the language we speak, our skin tone or place of birth, we are all human beings and share the same primary identity.” The conference highlighted the efforts of various faith-based groups in Spain to play a constructive role with the rising number of refugees arriving into the country. The representative from the Sant’Egidio community, a Christian organization, described an initiative taken by his community to encourage kindness and understanding by reading the names of all the newly arrived refugees. “We can sometimes forget that refugees have an identity and a name,” he said. Director of Public Affairs for the Baha’i community of Spain, Sergio Garcia, noted other contributions of the various faith groups in support of refugees, citing, for example, an initiative of the Muslim community to ensure that food was prepared and available for families in need and the experience of a Jewish group assisting youth in a refugee camp. “There was a real spirit of solidarity among participants,” said Dr. Garcia. “It was striking how harmoniously these different groups consulted and operated.” Reflecting the unified spirit that emerged from the gathering, the conference ended with a meal at dusk for everyone to share on the occasion of Ramadan.

40.4167047

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NEW DELHI

India

Transcending differences, treasuring diversity

NEW DELHI — Shiv Visvanathan visited the Indian state of Gujarat in 2002. There had been an outbreak of violent communal riots, and over a thousand people had died. That tragedy was a stark reminder that diversity, which should be regarded as a powerful resource for a community, is too often a source of conflict. Yet, according to Dr. Visvanathan, a prominent public intellectual and social scientist in India, we cannot simply appeal to human rationality to move past the tensions that give rise to violence. We need a broader conception of knowledge—one that draws not only on scientific inquiry and insights but also on knowledge systems that address the spiritual and mystical dimensions of life. “It’s ironic,” said Dr. Visvanathan, reflecting on the tragic episode in Gujarat, “While people considered religion to be the cause of the problem, I found that religion taught you the power to heal.” Dr. Visvanathan was the keynote speaker at the symposium, “Treasuring Diversity—The Role of Religion in Building an Inclusive Society,” organized by the Baha’i community of India on 29 June. Held on the grounds of the Baha’i House of Worship in New Delhi, the event gathered leading Indian academics and NGO representatives to discuss the relationship between religion and diversity and to explore new ways of conceptualizing both. Around the world, the ties binding diverse groups are often proving too superficial to withstand the disruptive forces they now face—deepening injustice, a widening gap between the wealthy and the poor, rising religious fundamentalism and sectarian violence, rural to urban migration, environmental crises, to name but a few. Diversity, which is a priceless resource for the enrichment of society, is being exploited to pit groups against each other and advance political and economic agendas. Shiv Visvanathan is a professor at the Jindal Global Law School and Director of the Centre for the Study of Knowledge Systems, OP Jindal Global University. He was the keynote speaker at the recent symposium, “Treasuring Diversity—The Role of Religion in Building an Inclusive Society,” organized by the Baha’i community of India.In 1994, Dr. Visvanathan had been an observer at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa after apartheid had been abolished. He witnessed there that forgiveness became possible because of a profound Southern African spiritual philosophy, referred to as Ubuntu, which stresses the innate interconnectedness of humanity. “You could not create unity without this religious consciousness,” he said. What he had come to appreciate about the perspective there was that diversity was understood as essential to a real sense of wholeness. For the Baha’i community of India, it is very timely to open a space for thinkers and practitioners concerned with social harmony to bring their insights into one room and explore ways forward. An overarching conviction among those present was that religion has an invaluable part to play in helping people appreciate diversity, overcome prejudice and hatred, and work toward peace. In the opening remarks, Arash Fazli, principal researcher at the Institute for Studies in Global Prosperity in India, acknowledged the misuse of religion that has given rise to prejudice and blind imitation, both in the past and present. “Religious practices that cultivate hatred and prejudice are distortions and perversions of the true spirit of religion which aims to create unity,” said Dr. Fazli. Binding the fractures that exist between diverse populations in a profound way, he argued, requires an evolving understanding of the crucial and unique role of religion in building unity, especially in a time when many societies are beset by forces of insularity and intolerance. This poses a challenge for religious communities, Dr. Fazli said. “For religion to fulfil its responsibility, it needs to meet certain conditions: it should instill a profound consciousness of the oneness of humankind, should be in harmony with science and reason and distinguished from superstition and blind imitation, should promote the independent investigation of truth, and should acknowledge the oneness of all religions.”

28.6138954

77.2090057

BRUSSELS

Belgium

Europe’s future entwined with world, says BIC

BRUSSELS — “The future of Europe is intrinsically linked to the future of the global community,” stated the Baha’i International Community (BIC) Brussels Office in a meeting at the European Parliament on 27 June. The high level dialogue brought together policy makers and faith leaders to discuss the direction Europe should take in the coming decade. The meeting at the European Parliament, and a second held on 7 July at the European Commission, came on the heels of the sixtieth anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, a major historical milestone in the formation of the EU. A new publication—the “White Paper”—was prepared by the European Commission for that historic occasion and has set in motion a series of dialogues on the future of Europe. In her comments at the European Parliament event, BIC representative Rachel Bayani highlighted the critical need today to recognize the interconnectedness of the global community. A meeting of faith leaders and policy makers at the European Commission on 7 July“Our policies cannot only be concerned with creating increased prosperity for our continent alone,” she stated. “Solutions that consider the well-being of one part of the world without adequately considering others are proving inadequate. The advantage of the part is best reached by the advantage of the whole.” At the European Commission meeting, the BIC expanded on this idea, using a poignant example—forced migration. “The movement of populations into Europe, especially as a result of global inequality, has demonstrated that we cannot isolate one part of the world from the issues affecting humanity in another,” commented Ms. Bayani. To build consensus about Europe’s path forward will require a robust conversation among the diverse populations on the continent, argued Vice-President of the European Commission, Frans Timmermans. He commented that “across Europe, we feel extremely comfortable with the company of people who are like us and that we seek dialogue with those with whom we already agree. But the only way forward for a society as diverse as Europe’s is to come to a common understanding of the values we share.” Responding to his comments, Ms. Bayani pointed to the presence of both faith and secular organizations as an example of the kind of dialogue between different worldviews that would be needed to overcome fragmentation and build mutual understanding. Reflecting on the meetings afterward, the BIC noted a challenge facing Europe today: regardless of the different worldviews held by its citizens, Europe will have to fundamentally re-examine its relationship to and understanding of religion. The subject of religion has become more prevalent in Europe’s public discourse recently. While for many years, an assumption prevailed that religion would become less important as the forces of modernity advanced; the experience of the past decades has shown this not to be the case. “A question for Europe, then,” stated the BIC, “is how to find a model of public discourse in which religion can play a constructive part in shaping society.”

50.8465573

4.351697

BIC GENEVA

A peaceful, persistent response to injustice

BIC GENEVA — Thirty years ago, the Baha’i community of Iran embarked on a remarkable endeavor. Denied access to formal education by the country’s authorities after their numerous appeals, they set up an informal program of higher education in basements and living rooms throughout the country with the help of Baha’i professors and academics that had been fired from their posts because of their faith. This gradually came to be known as the Baha’i Institute for Higher Education (BIHE). Since its inception, BIHE has helped educate thousands of individuals, many of whom have been accepted into nearly 100 universities around the world to pursue graduate studies. Many BIHE graduates that complete their post-graduate studies abroad will return to Iran to serve their communities. Thanks to advances in technology, BIHE’s students are now taught by professors from across the globe. Those who offer their expertise and knowledge to the education of Baha’i youth in Iran, have witnessed first-hand the students’ high ideals and commitment to the pursuit of knowledge. “The Baha’i response to injustice is neither to succumb in resignation nor to take on the characteristics of the oppressor,” explained Diane Ala’i, representative of the Baha’i International Community to the United Nations in Geneva, quoting a letter from the Universal House of Justice. “This,” she said, “is the fundamental definition of constructive resilience.” “Of course, the Baha’is are not the only ones that have responded non-violently and positively to oppression, but they are finding a different way of doing that, which is more focused on their role in serving the community around them together with others,” said Ms. Ala’i. Despite efforts by the Iranian authorities to disrupt BIHE’s operation by raiding hundreds of Baha’i homes and offices associated with it, confiscating study materials, and arresting and imprisoning dozens of lecturers, it has grown significantly over the past three decades. It relies on a variety of knowledgeable individuals both in and outside of Iran to enable youth to study a growing number of topics in the sciences, social sciences, and arts. Overall, not only has BIHE survived thirty years, it has thrived. Studying at BIHE is not easy. Because it’s not a public university, there is no funding available, and many students hold down full-time jobs. It is common to travel across the country to go to monthly classes in Tehran. Sometimes, students will have to commute from a home on one side of the city to the other in the middle of the day, because these are the only spaces available to hold classes. Despite these logistical challenges, students meet high academic standards. With its young people banned from public institutions of higher education in Iran since the early 1980s, the Baha’i community of Iran established BIHE in 1987. BIHE operates in private homes and through correspondence and online courses.“I have talked to BIHE students who said when their teacher was arrested and put in jail and all their materials were confiscated, they would get together for class just the same,” said Saleem Vaillancourt, the coordinator of the Education is Not a Crime campaign, which brings attention to the issue of denial of education to the Baha’is in Iran. “These students continued studying together, despite the fact that they didn’t have a teacher. This was their attitude, it didn’t seem remarkable to them. They just said this is what we have to do, because they had a commitment to the process.” Universal education is a core belief of the Baha’i Faith, and when the authorities in Iran sought to deny Baha’i students this critical and fundamental right, the Baha’i community pursued a peaceful solution—never for a moment conceding their ideals, never surrendering to their oppressor, and never opposing the government. Instead, for decades, it has been seeking constructive solutions, a show of its longstanding resilience. In Iran, persecution of the Baha’is is official state policy. A 1991 memorandum approved by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei states clearly that Baha’is “must be expelled from universities, either in the admission process or during the course of their studies, once it becomes known that they are Baha’is.” Other forms of persecution torment the Baha’is in Iran as well. An open letter dated 6 September 2016 to Iran’s President from the BIC draws his attention to the economic oppression faced by the Baha’is there. The letter highlights the stark contradiction between statements espoused by the Iranian government regarding economic justice, equality for all, and reducing unemployment on the one hand, and the unrelenting efforts to impoverish a section of its own citizens on the other. “The Baha’i community in Iran wasn’t going to let itself go quietly into the night. It wasn’t going to allow itself to be suffocated in this way,” said Mr. Vaillancourt. A distinctly non-adversarial approach to oppression fundamentally characterizes the Baha’i attitude towards social change. The Baha’i response to oppression draws on a conviction in the oneness of humanity. It recognizes the need for coherence between the spiritual and material dimensions of life. It is based on a long-term perspective characterized by faith, patience, and perseverance. It at once calls for obedience to the law and a commitment to meet hatred and persecution with love and kindness. And, ultimately, this posture has at its very center an emphasis on service to the welfare of one’s fellow human beings. “I think we see in the world today the breakdown of communities that people would not have thought could happen so easily. We’ve come to realize that living side by side is not enough. We need to live together and know one another, and the best way to know one another is to start working for the betterment of society,” said Ms. Ala’i. “As the Baha’is in Iran have begun to do this in a more conscious way, other Iranians have come to know their Baha’i neighbors and understand that much of what they had heard about the Baha’is from the government and clergy were lies. As they have become more involved in the life of the communities where they live, the Baha’is have witnessed an immense change in the attitude of other Iranians towards them.” The Baha’i response to oppression is not oppositional and ultimately strives toward higher degrees of unity. Its emphasis is not only on collective action, but on inner transformation. This strategy is a conscious one employed by the Baha’i community. Going beyond the tendency to react to oppression, war, or natural disaster with apathy or anger, the Baha’i response counters inhumanity with patience, deception with truthfulness, cruelty with good will, and keeps its attention on long-term, beneficial, and productive action. The Baha’i Institute for Higher Education embodies all of these elements. “BIHE is an extraordinary achievement,” commented Mr. Vaillancourt. “Perhaps the least known, longest-running, and most successful form of peacefully answering oppression that history has ever seen. It sets the best example I know of for this particular Baha’i attitude to answering persecution or answering the challenging forces of our time, where we try to have an attitude, posture, and response of constructive resilience.”

BIC NEW YORK

Religious discrimination explicit in Iran's penal code

BIC NEW YORK — A court in Yazd has recently sentenced a man convicted of the public murder of a Baha'i to just 11 years in prison and two years away from home. The court justified the sentence by stating that according to the Islamic penal code, the accused and the victim are not equal for the general purpose of retributive justice. This astonishing provision clearly and deliberately deprives non-Muslims of the legal right to seek justice on equal-footing with the country's Muslim majority. The murder of Farhang Amiri, a 63-year-old father of four children, occurred in September 2016 in Yazd on the street outside his home in public view. He was brutally stabbed to death by two brothers who immediately admitted to having been motivated by religious hatred. The younger man was sentenced to half of his brother's sentence for aiding in the murder. The two men confessed to stabbing Farhang Amiri to death with the explicitly stated intention of killing a Baha'i. These sentences for the killing of an innocent man clearly demonstrate the inherent discrimination and injustice at the heart of Iran's penal code, which treats its own citizens on an unequal basis because of their religious belief. "Such a verdict undermines the Iranian authorities' claims to equality for all their citizens before the law. Clearly, the legal system encourages violence against Baha'is, the largest religious minority," said Bani Dugal, Principal Representative of the Baha'i International Community to the United Nations. "We call on Iranians to consider how their society can possibly advance when the legal system, which should dispense justice, manifests such breath-taking inequity."

YANGON

Myanmar

Aung San Suu Kyi gathers Myanmar religious leaders

YANGON, Myanmar — Every year for decades, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has held a memorial service in honor of nine politicians, including her father, who were assassinated six months before Myanmar gained independence from Britain. This year's service on 19 July marked the seventieth anniversary of General Aung San's death. Originally initiated by Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi and her mother, the annual memorial service has become an important space for uniting diverse groups in prayer and peace over many years. In the majority Buddhist Myanmar, Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi this year sought to specifically bring together minority religious groups, including Baha'i, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, and Muslim religious leaders. During the commemoration, she spoke warmly of the Baha'i community and its teachings on unity. Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi has long been known for her commitment to promoting peace and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 in recognition of her leading a non-violent struggle for democracy and human rights. This came against the backdrop of civil and ethnic conflict that had plagued the country since the mid-1900s, when it gained independence after more than a century of colonization. Over the past several years, Myanmar has been in a period of marked transition, gradually opening up to the world. Aung San Suu Kyi (center left) with representatives of the Baha'i community of Myanmar (from left to right: U Shwe Thee, U Myint Zaw Oo, U Tin Win)"Aung San Suu Kyi realizes the role of religious leaders is very important for nation building and peace so she organized such a gathering," said Auxiliary Bishop John Saw Yaw Han who attended the event, as reported by ucanews.com. Another participant U Saung Lwin Aung, a Muslim leader from Yangon, told UCA News, "The gathering of all religious leaders is very important as hate speech is growing in the country, so we must join hand in hand to fight it through love speech." "As the unity of the human race and the need to eliminate all forms of prejudice and establish peace are among the foremost principles of Baha'u'llah's teachings, the quest for peace in Myanmar is very dear to the hearts of the Baha'is here," said U Myint Zaw Oo, a representative from the Baha'i community reflecting after the meeting on the significance of bringing together the diverse religious leaders on that momentous occasion. The Baha'i community in Myanmar is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the time of Baha'u'llah when, in 1878, two believers introduced the Baha'i Teachings to the people of Myanmar (referred to as Burma at the time). From that point onward, the nascent community grew quickly and became well established in the country.

16.7967129

96.1609916

KENILWORTH

United Kingdom

Pioneering actor, now 100, reflects on life, faith, and change

KENILWORTH, United Kingdom — When the 22-year old Earl Cameron arrived in England from Bermuda in 1939, most of the people of Caribbean origin whom he met there were struggling to find work. "It was quite impossible for a black person to get any kind of job," recalls Cameron, who reaches his 100th birthday today. "The attitude was that they should go back to their own homeland. Some of them were veterans of the First World War, and even they couldn't get a job. When I look back, that was the condition." "Today it's different and I'm glad I came at that time to be able now to see some of the wonderful changes that have taken place." Bermuda-born Cameron, who became a Baha'i in 1963, is taking the opportunity of his centenary to reflect on his life and career as an actor. And his own role in breaking down the color bar for British audiences should not be underestimated. According to the British Film Institute's Screenonline guide to film and television history: "Earl Cameron brought a breath of fresh air to the British film industry's stuffy depictions of race relations. Often cast as a sensitive outsider, Cameron gave his characters a grace and moral authority that often surpassed the films' compromised liberal agendas." Discovering the Baha'i Faith As Cameron continued to work steadily through the early 1960s, he found himself searching for answers to life's questions. He had been troubled from his time in the merchant navy when he spent five months on a ship travelling to India. "On this ship there were fights almost every day. I must say they were a very quarrelsome bunch of seamen for the most part! And then I saw Kolkata with all of its hungry people on the streets, and wondered, 'Why? Why is the world like this?' Cameron found his questions answered by an old friend from Bermuda whom he met again in London. His friend was a Baha'i. "Everything appealed to me," Cameron explains. "But we argued backwards and forwards. It took me some time to understand the difference between just an outstanding human being and what Baha'is call a Manifestation of God. When the penny dropped, I realized the difference of a Christ, or a Muhammad, or a Baha'u'llah, and from that moment on I could accept everything I read from Baha'u'llah." Fully dedicated to his Baha'i beliefs, Cameron made a dramatic move of another kind, by uprooting with his family to the Solomon Islands to help in the development of the Baha'i community there. When he returned to the United Kingdom 15 years later, he picked up his acting career where it had left off. Continuing to work through his eighties and nineties, he had a major role as a controversial African leader in The Interpreter (2005), which starred Nicole Kidman, as well as cameo appearances in The Queen (2006) with Dame Helen Mirren, and Inception (2010). Breakthrough into acting Two years after his arrival, tired of carrying out menial jobs, Cameron had a lucky break: he was asked to cover a role in a popular musical theater show, Chu Chin Chow, when one of the actors in the cast did not turn up for work. His acting career took off and, for the next four decades, his face and rich, golden voice, became a well-known fixture on stage, and then on screen. "I realized that there were very few parts to be had," Cameron explains. "I didn't kid myself. I'd been in the theater for at least eight years by the time I did my first film and I knew it was very limited. But I realized also at the time how fortunate I was to get that very first film." That film was Pool of London (1951), considered groundbreaking in its employment of a leading, black character, and in its depiction of an interracial romance. "It's a wonderful part," he says, "and still remains I think the best film I've done. It was fully true to life and very typical of England at that time," he recalls. Earl Cameron at an event organized by the British Film Institute in October 2016 with a screening of Pool of London (1951)—Cameron’s first film—on the occasion of his induction to the Screen Nation Hall of Fame. (Photo Screen Nation Media 2016: Photography Carl Barriteau)Seminal BBC television dramas that explored racism followed, including The Dark Man (1960), in which Cameron played a taxi driver facing prejudice in his workplace. At the same time, his became a familiar face in many classic television series of the era, including Doctor Who and The Prisoner. He also played opposite Sean Connery as James Bond's Caribbean ally Pinder in Thunderball (1965). One film of which Cameron is particularly proud to have been involved with was the dramatization of the story of the Prophet Muhammad, The Message (1976). Cameron played the King of Abyssinia, or Negus, who offered safe haven to early Muslims in the time of the Prophet. The British Film Institute described his performance as a "scene-stealing cameo." "How could I possibly turn down such a nice part like that?" he smiles. But despite personal critical and popular acclaim, roles in films were few and far between for black actors. "Always I had to wait months before I got another part. Now it has changed to some degree and there are many brilliant black actors. But for the most part you have to go to Hollywood to get recognition." At one point in his career, Cameron did even consider crossing the Atlantic and trying his luck in American films. "But I was married with five children," he says. "My wife was white and myself black, and California wasn't a very welcoming place for mixed marriages. So I thought, 'No, I'm not going to expose my family to the kind of racism that I was bound to encounter.' So I forgot about it." "I say now that I was very fortunate. Because at that time, I know I would have got caught up in that way of life. So I look back on it and thank God I did not go to Hollywood." An extraordinary contribution In the last decade, Cameron has been the recipient of many honors. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II awarded him the high accolade of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2009 New Year Honors list, and last year he became the first inductee into the Screen Nation Foundation's Hall of Fame, which celebrates individuals of African Caribbean heritage who have made extraordinary contributions on screen. He has also been lauded in Bermuda where the main theater in Hamilton was renamed The Earl Cameron Theater in 2012. He is hoping to make a journey there in October for a special presentation. As he enters his eleventh decade, Earl Cameron is still very much alert, keen to continue acting, and contribute to Baha'i community activities. "We need to realize that God has a plan for humanity and each individual one of us is somewhat part of that plan," he says. "God has a plan that this world will become a world of peace. The immediate future seems dire. With the conditions that are prevailing, humanity will sooner or later have no choice but to return to God's guidance." "There's hardly a minute of my life when I'm not thanking God for my existence on this earth and having found this wonderful Faith. To me if I had lived a million times again and not had the Baha'i Faith it would all be for nothing."

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