National Bahá’í Review/Issue 32/Text

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[Page 1]

Obedience to

In the United States questions often arise as to what civil authority one should obey especially when there is apparent conflict between the immediate civil authority under which one resides and a superior authority, such as a state government or the Federal Government. People unfamiliar with the workings of the legal system find it difficult to determine their course of action when such conflicts arise. Often it is thought that the superior authority is the one to be obeyed under these circumstances; thus. for example, in cases of school desegregation there are those who, in trying to carry out a Federal ruling. find themselves in open dispute with others who may prefer to support contrary actions of a local or state authority.

A Bahá’í caught in the cross—fire generated by this kind of conflict is often bewildered because he wishes to carry out the injunction of Bahá’u’lláh to be loyal to ones government. But how. he may well ask himself, can one be loyal to two or more conflicting authorities‘? The tendency of many people in choosing among loyalties is to feel that the Federal Government, being the supreme authority in the land, must be obeyed in preference to any local or state authority. How, then, does the principle of loyalty to government apply when there is apparent conflict between state and Federal laws‘? The following excerpts from the writings of the Guardian and The Universal House of Justice clarify these questions.

9 “To all administrative regulations which the civil authorities have issued from time to time, or will issue in the future in that land, as in all other countries, the Bahá’í community, faithful to its sacred obligations towards its government, and conscious of its civic duties, has yielded, and will continue to yield implicit obedience. . . . ” (Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By)

“We see, therefore, that we must do two things — shun politics like the plague, and be obedient to the Government in power in the place where we reside . . . If they (the Bahá’ís) become involved in the issues the Governments of the world are struggling over, they will be lost. But if they build up the Bahá’í pattern they can offer it as a remedy when all else has failed.” (Letter written on Shoghi Effendi’s behalf, Baha/’z'News 241, p. 14)

“The full text of the quotations from which these excerpts are taken makes it clear that Bahá’ís must live

BAHKW’ YEAR 127

PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE aAH»’:is or THE UNITED STATES FOR BAHAIUIIS ONLY

112 Linden Av., Wilmette, III. 6009] Second-class postaae Daid at Wilmette, Illinois

AUGUST 1970

Civil Authority

the Bahá’í life, fully and continuously, unless prevented by the authorities. If local, state, or federal authorities actively prohibit Bahá’í life or some aspect of it, then Bahá’ís must submit to these requirements in all cases except where a spiritual principle is involved such as a denial of faith. This, Bahá’ís cannot do under any circumstances. The lives the friends lead will prove to be the greatest teachers.” (The Universal House of Justice, July 23. 1964)

i.

Bahá’ís obey the law. Federal or state, unless submission to these laws amounts to a denial of their Faith. We live the Bahá’í life, fully and continuously, unless prevented by authorities. This implies, if it does not categorically state. that a Bahá’í is not required to make a judgment as to the precedence of Federal or state law—this is for the courts to decide." (The Universal House of Justice, March 30. 1965)

Civil disobedience is not permissible for Bahá’ís. However, a Bahá’í may decide, while obeying a repugnant regulation, to complain to the authorities, if wisdom and consultation with Bahá’í institutions dictate such action.

In conclusion, a Bahá’í should be implicitly obedient to the constituted authority in the community wherein he functions. Thus, for example. if school administrators are permitted by the state to promulgate rules and regulations for student conduct, the Bahá’í student will obey those rules. He may take part in action to correct such rules only by conduct which does not violate any Bahá’í principle or any law or regulation including the rule itself. Where a state or local government or agency enforces an unjust law, or unjustly enforces any law, the Bahá’í within the jurisdiction will not attempt to demonstrate the invalidity of the law by violating it. nor will he violate any second law in protest against the First.

By such a standard of conduct, universally applied. the American Bahá’í Community will not only be demonstrating that striking contrast between itself and secular society longed for by the beloved Guardian but also be freed to . . concentrate on perfecting our characters as individual Bahá’ís; and on maturing our still embryonic. and as yet improperly understood World Order; on spreading the Message, according to the provisions of the Divine Plan; and, on building a tightly knit, world-wide Bahá’í community.”

[Page 2]AUGUST 1970

“These Souls Are Thy Heavenly Army . . .”

More than fifty radiant souls came together at Davison Bahá’í School on June 29-July 4 to learn together, to pray together, and to arm themselves for the task ahead, as the First Pioneering Institute was held. Though this was to be the first of a series of such invitational institutes, the love and the spirit of dedication that was generated that week would be hard to surpass.

A strenuous curriculum had been prepared by the National Bahá’í Schools Committee, in conjunction with the International Goals Committee. consisting of classes on the history of pioneering and “Covenant and Administration." as well as workshops geared to specific areas of the world and conducted by Bahá’ís from those areas. Many interesting facts were shared at these workshops—facts not to be gleaned from textbooks or tourist manuals. The friends were able to obtain information on living conditions, job opportunities, universities and, most importantly, the Bahá’í status of these goal countries and the techniques of teaching there.

The Bahá’ís pictured above were at the Institute at the invitation of the International Goals Committee and the National Teaching Committee. They were selected because they had communicated their desire to pioneer to the Committees. Many who had not yet decided on a place to go became confirmed during that week. and those who had already made their decision were able to get much specific information they required.

In addition to the regularly scheduled classes (and an occasional volleyball game), special programs were held each evening, including addresses by Auxiliary Board member Mrs. Javiduk_ht gadem. Hassan Sabri of Africa, and Marc Towers, formerly of Australasia. These inspiring evenings reinforced the special feeling of unity

shared by a group of people with a common goal—to pioneer for our beloved Faith.

Also teaching at the Institute were Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Bagley, pioners to Europe, and Richard Merkovitch. who served in Latin America. Lois Goebel of the National Center shared many interesting and informative administrative points in her class. An especially interesting session was held each evening of general health hints. including slides and movies, and all in attendance felt. at their conclusion. that they were ready to cope with any emergency.

More such weeks are scheduled for the future. and as the regiments of God's heavenly army prepare themselves for the great tasks they are called upon to execute. the knowledge gained during these" courses will prove to be most valuable. This army will be sustained by words remembered and lessons learned. so that they may truly be prepared to serve the Cause of God.

URGENT!

We quote from a letter from Sweden: “A popular quintet. consisting of drums, fender bass. organ and reeds . . . needs a trombone player, valve or slide, who reads trumpet, tenor, flute, and bass clef parts. Reading is mandatory, and soloing is preferable.” An American pioneer is vacating this position and would like to replace himself with another Bahá’í musician. For more information, Contact the International Goals Committee. 112 Linden Avenue. Wilmette, Illinois 60091.

[Page 3]REVIEW’

of Sacrifice” meeting in Los Angeles.

The Decision—Making Process By Spiritual Assemblies

From time to time local Spiritual Assemblies raise the question as to whether it is always necessary to vote on all decisions arrived at in consultation, whether unanimously or by the majority of the members. The following letter from the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada. March 6, 1970, clarifying this subject is quoted here for the guidance of local Spiritual Assemblies in the United States.

“It is important to realize that the spirit of Bahá’í consultation is very different from that current in the decision—making processes of non-Bahá’í bodies.

“The ideal of Bahá’í consultation is to arrive at a unanimous decision. When this is not possible a vote must be taken. In the words of the beloved Guardian: ‘. . . when they are called upon to arrive at a certain decision, they should, after dispassionate, anxious and cordial consultation, turn to God in prayer, and with earnestness and conviction and courage record their vote and abide by the voice of the majority, which we are told by the Master to be the voice of truth, never to be challenged, and always to be wholeheartedly enforced.’

“As soon as a decision is reached it becomes the decision of the whole Assembly, not merely of those members who happened to be among the majority.

“When it is proposed to put a matter to the vote, a member of the Assembly may feel that there are additional facts or views which must be sought before he can make up his mind and intelligently vote on the proposition. He should express this feeling to the Assembly, and it is for the Assembly to decide whether or not further consultation is needed before voting.

“Whenever it is decided to vote on a proposition all that is required is to ascertain how many of the members are in favor of it; if this is a majority of those present, the motion is carried; if it is a minority, the motion is defeated. Thus the whole question of ‘abstaining’ does not arise in Bahá’í voting. A member who does not vote in favor of a proposition is, in effect, voting against it, even if at that moment he himeself feels that he has been unable to make up his mind on the matter.”

Culver City hosts “Day of Sacrifice” in Los Angeles Bahá’í Center, April 11.

Self-Defense

The growing civil disorder in the cities and on the campuses has aroused a great deal of interest among the believers in the question of self—defense. In a letter to the National Spiritual Assembly of Canada, dated May 26, 1969, the Universal House of Justice oFfered the following guidance on this question:

“From the texts you already have available it is clear that Bahá’u’lláh has stated that it is preferable to be killed in the path of Gods good—pleasure than to kill. and that organized religious attack against Bahá’ís should never turn into any kind of warfare. as this is strictly prohibited in our Writings.

“A hitherto untranslated Tablet from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, however, points out that in the case of attack by robbers and highwaymen. a Bahá’í should not surrender himself, but should try, as far as circumstances permit, to defend himself, and later on lodge a complaint with the government authorities. In a letter written on behalf of the Guardian. he also indicates that in an emergency when there is no legal force at hand to appeal to, a Bahá’í is justified in defending his life. In another letter the Guardian has further pointed out that the assault of an irresponsible assailant upon a Bahá’í should be resisted by the Bahá’í. who would be justified, under such circumstances, in protecting his life.

“The House of Justice does not wish at the present time to go beyond the guidelines given in the above-mentioned statements. The question is basically a matter of conscience, and in each case the Bahá’í involved must use his judgment in determining when to stop in self-defense lest his action deteriorate into retaliation.

“Of course the above principles apply also in cases when a Bahá’í finds himself involved in situations of civil disorder. We have, however, advised the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States that under the present circumstances in that country it is preferable that Bahá’ís do not buy nor own arms for their protection or the protection of their families.”

[Page 4]Bahá’í’Direct'ory Changes Assembly Secretaries

Alabama Tuskegee: Mrs. Fanny Swanson, Rt. 1, Box 251, 36083

Arizona

Scottsdale: Mrs. Marcia Swenson, P.O. Box3554. 85257

Central California Dist. No. 2 Stockton: Mrs. Riene D. Cooper, 646 E. Anderson St.. 95206

Southern California Dist. No. 1 Compton J.D.: To correct zip code to: 90224

Indiana Bloomington: Mrs. Marylin M. Shahbahrami, 1412 Nancy, 47401

Louisiana Bossier City: Miss Elayne Davis, permanent secretary

Michigan Flint: Mrs. Evelyn Bradt, 1541 Stone St., 48503

Minnesota Duluth: Mrs. Virginia Peterson, 1436 - 7th Ave., E., 55805

South Carolina Greenville County: Mrs. Geraldine P. Rivera, 8 Kingsridge Dr., Greenville 29607

State Goals Committee Secretaries

Iowa Mrs. Barbara McEntire. 1904 Knollwood Dr., Marshalltown 50158

St. Ma‘ry’s County, Maryland, youth picnic.

AUGUST 1970

Race Unity Day

Gallup, New Mexico: Miss Brenda Romero was featured during the musical part of Gallup’s traditional picnic, which was held this year during the evening so that there would be no conflict with the Bahá’í Indian Conference a-t Chinle. Her songs and guitar and a potluck supper made the evening a happy affair for some sixty persons.

Sterling, Colorado: The lone Bahá’í of this community (Mrs. Elizabeth Clark) confines her Bahá’í activities to “Press, radio, phone, editor items. paid notices in the daily Journal-Advocate, and free items under ‘Calendar of Events’ and ‘Just Among Friends.’ " Race Unity Day was advertised. “Many Spanish, Russian peoples, few Blacks. few Indians” reside in Sterling, home of Northeastern Junior College. The college has Bahá’í books in its libraries, but there are no Bahá’ís in its classrooms. There is a large campus, and new buildings are added annually.

Columbus, Ohio: This Community reports that their observance was held in the beautiful new Martin Luther King Library, with a program from two to five p.m. There was a speaker from the United Nations. and a Mr. M. Singh from Ohio State University spoke about Indian religion. Mrs. Emily Chavous was chairman and gave a comprehensive discourse on the “Bahá’í Teachings and Human Relations." The meeting had been announced in the newspapers. on radio and TV, as well as by mailed invitations and by programs placed in twenty shops in the neighborhood.

Youth Picnic in Maryland

The Bahá’í youth of St. Marys County, Maryland, sponsored an area—wide youth picnic on Memorial Day. About one hundred. and seventy-five responded from Maryland, Washington, D.C.. Virginia, and Delaware. It was a period of arranged recreation. fellowship. love and unity.

The youth requested the site of Church Point in St. Mary’s City. Its beaches. shaded areas, and grassy, level grounds were ideal for such an occasion. Historically in Maryland, it was here that the first act of Religious Toleration was signed in the United States. It is the site of the first permanent settlement in Maryland. Today, the area has only a few residences and a state college, and is owned by the Episcopal Church.

When the rector of the church was approached, he said it was all right for the youth to use it for their picnic. When asked if he would like to read something about the people he had just permitted to use his church’s property. he said that he had read a good deal about the Bahá’ís and their Faith, and that they are a very admirable group.

Later, it was learned that the following Sunday the rector gave a sermon on brotherly love, commenting favorably on Bahá’í brotherhood and love.

Newspaper coverage of the picnic was in both local papers. Several local people have since inquired about the Faith, and one has embraced the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.

[Page 5]REVIEW

A Letter of Victory

There is so much work to be done. and our pioneers struggle so valiantly. that it is always heartwarming to receive letters reporting victories won. The following is from a letter written by Victor and Janet Alexander. pioneers to Paraguay:

“This is just a short note to inform you of our historical Convention. and also to share with you some of the wonderful moments of joy that all who attended felt during this Convention. This Convention proved Bahá’u’lláh's assurance that. if we work in unity and with love. we will achieve success in our efforts.

"The Nine Year Plan goal set by the Universal House of Justice of nine local Spiritual Assemblies was achieved . . . All nineteen delegates voted; fourteen delegates from all parts of Paraguay attended in spite of tough conditions. weather. roads. jobs. etc. All nine indigenous delegates. representing their local Spiritual Assemblies. voted. and four attended. traveling 600 kilometers from the Chaco to Asuncion. One delegate. a woman. eight months pregnant. with three small children.

“We now have five local Spiritual Assemblies in the Chaco. Paraguay. Mariscal Estigarribia. the largest Paraguayan city in all of the Chaco. and where we have a Bahá’í Center (a small house on . . . fenced land). now has a local Spiritual Assembly with twenty—seven of the most wonderful, loving and enthusiastic, dedicated believers. The election of the local Spiritual Assembly was to be at 12:00 . . . These people were here at 10:00 am.', some had walked ten kilometers with families and children to vote . . . and those who were cut off from coming because of the weather sent in their votes.

“25 Legua . . . became a local Spiritual Assembly . . . The National Spiritual Assembly sent two traveling teachers. and when they got there the nine members were all signed up with their officers elected and a plan for further teaching of the Faith. Three years of constant visits to this community yielded this.

“Over two months ago. we took Counsellor Athos Costas with two traveling teachers to 25 Legua. When we reached there they had written, by themselves. invitations to come to the Bahá’í meeting . . . They came on foot, they came with wagons. long distances. and the Jeep was loaded with people —— front. back. and everywhere. . .

“This was also the first Convention where everything that was said was translated into Guarani. Guarani is the native language of all of Paraguay. Ninety—five per cent of all the people speak Guarani—it is a language of the heart.

“This is the first year that such a great majority of Paraguayans have tasted the thrill of travel teachingand have achieved results phenomenal. It is our hope that soon they can take over and all the pioneers can leave to fulfill other goals.

“This is a big. rough country. . . there is so much to do here. We are so thankful to Bahá’u’lláh for giving us this great privilege.”

The National Music and Drama Review Committee

The National Music and Drama Review Committees function is to review materials that have been submitted for possible publication and national distribution under the aegis of the National Spiritual Assembly. The call is out to the artistic segment of our community to submit materials that can be used for Bahá’í summer schools. teaching functions. campus club meetings. and childrens classes. But since any poetry, music. plays. or other materials published as “Bahá’í pieces” stand as representative of the Faith. the quality must. of course. be very high. It is the purpose of the Music and Drama Committee to see that these standards are maintained.

All materials submitted to the Music and Drama Committee are reviewed from two points of view: the quality of the work; and the uses to which the work can be put. For example, in judging thequality of a tape of songs the Committee looks for voice quality. instrumentation. and the blending of these two aspects together. Correctness of pitch and soundness of harmonies are. of course. a must. as well as rational tempos. precise diction. and correct dynamics. In addition. musical compositions which employ trite expressions, be they melodic. harmonic. or rhythmic. are generally not recommended for publication. Lyrics should be original and relevant to our times. but all references to the Faith. or to the names of the Figures of the Faith. must be made with the utmost reverence and dignity.

As far as use is concerned. all materials, regardless of the medium. fall into one of two categories: (1) a publication in which one artist’s or groups work dominates the entire publication (a good example of this sort of approach in recordings would be Russ Garcia’s album); (2) or the mixed—bag category. in which. for example. many soloists or groups might contribute one or several numbers apiece in an album or publication. This was the approach used with Fire and Snow, the choral book, the folk song packet. and a new book about to appear. and the children’s song book.

The Music and Drama Committee is also trying to function as a clearinghouse by keeping on file a listing of all works not produced for national distribution but which might be appropriate for use by various groups on different occasions. Any club or committee wishing information on what is available. or anyone wishing to submit materials to the Committee. should Contact Mrs. 1;/lildred N. McClellan. 95 Avon Hill St.. Cambridge. Massachusetts 02140.

The Committee is prepared to work with artists who may not be able to find singers for their songs. or who may not be sure what their material can be used for. Perhaps that song or poem you’ve been hiding in your desk drawer is better than you think it is.

Send your materials to:

Mrs. Mildred N. McClellan

95 Avon Hill Street

Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140.

or to:

Mrs. Joan Bulkin

551 South Parish Place Burbank. California 91506

Mrs. Bulkin is on the Western Branch of_the Committee. .

[Page 6]AUGUST 1970

Goal Data Report

Nine Year Plan Goal Data: Available information at the World Center as of June 7 indicates the following countries and territories have achieved or surpassed their assignments for formation of local spiritual assemblies (LSA) and the opening of localities (L):

AFRICA

Indian Ocean Mauritius — LSA

AMERICAS

Alaska Nunivak Island — L Prince of Wales Island —L St. Lawrence Island — L Alaska Peninsula — L

Argentina — L Belize — LSA/L Canada

Gulf Islands — LSA

Keewatin — LSA Mackenzie — LSA

Chile—LSA/L

Mocha — L

Colombia — LSA/L St. Andres Island — LSA/L Providencia Island — L

Ecuador — L Galapagos Islands — L

El Salvador —— LSA/L

Guatemala — L

Guyana. Surinam. and Fr. Guiana Guyana— LSA/L Surinam —— L French Guiana — L

Honduras — L

Jamaica — L Cayman Islands — L

Leeward. Windward. and Virgin Islands

Antigua — L

Barbuda — L

St. Kitts—Nevis —— LSA/L Domirtica — L

St. Vincent — LSA/L Barbados — LSA

St. Lucia — LSA/L Gudadeloupe — LSA/L Martinique — L

Saba — L

St. Eustatius — L

St. Martin — L Montserrat — L Anguilla — L

Marie Galante Is. — L St. Barthelemy — L Grenadines — L

Mexico — LSA/L Seri Reservation — L Cozumel Island M LSA/L Las Mujeres Island — L Quintana Roo Territory — LSA/L

Nicaragua — L Panama — L Paraguay —~ LSA/L Peru — LSA/L Uruguay — L

Venezuela — LSA/L Aruba Island — L Trinidad and Tobago — LSA/L

ASIA Burma — LSA

Ceylon — L Maldive Islands — L

Eastern and Southern Arabia Bahrayn Island — LSA Qatar — LSA Trucial Sheikhs — LSA

India

Nepal — L

Bhutan — L

Laccadive Islands — L Nicobar Islands — L Andaman Islands — LSA/L

Korea — L Laos — L

Malaysia Malaya _— LSA/L Singapore — L

North East Asia Macao — LSA/L Ryukyu Islands — L

Persia Aghirbayjan — L Georgia — L Kirghizia - L Tadzhikistan — L

[Page 7]REVIEW

Philippine Islands — LSA/L Sikkim — L

Thailand — LSA/L

Vietnam — LSA/L AUSTRALASIA

Fiji — LSA/L

Gilbert and Ellice Islands Nauru — L

Hawaiian Islands Marshall Islands — LSA/L

South West Pacific Ocean Solomon Islands — L New Hebrides — LSA/L Loyalty Islands — L

Tonga and Cook Islands Tonga — LSA

EUROPE

Austria Czechoslovakia — L _ Hungary ~ L Yugoslavia — L

British Isles Orkney Islands » LSA Inner Hebrides —— L Gibraltar — L Republic of Ireland — L Line Islands —- L Cyprus -— L Malta — L Faroe Islands —— L

Denmark Greenland — L

France —— L Corsica — L Monaco — LSA/L

Germany

North Frisian Islands —— L East Frisian Islands — L Cyclades Islands — L Poland — L

Bulgaria — L

Rumania — L

Greece —— L

Crete — L Italy Ischia — L

Aeolian Islands —— L San Marino — L Rhodes —— LSA /L ’

Norway Lofoten Islands — L

Spain Andorra — L Canary Island —— L Sweden Gotland "—~ L

Switzerland — L Liechtenstein — L

Bahá’í’ Poet Honored

Editors for the National Anthology of High School Poetry recently announced that the work of Harry Bryce. Jr.. would be included in the 1970 edition of the Anthology. Bryce, a native of Richmond, Virginia. will be the first black student included in the yearly publication. Poems to be included in the book are selected from tens ot thousands that are submitted by high schools from the entire Continental United States.

In a letter acknowledging the acceptance of his poetry, the editors said, “We hope this honor will encourage you to continue with your writing."

Bryce made the acceptance public in Chicago. where he was attending the Second Annual Youth Conference of the Bahá’í Faith in Wilmette. “Although I am honored to be included in the Anthology. I must,” he said. “acknowledge the help and support of another poet. Mrs. Margaret Danner. He explained that he met Mrs. Danner when she was writer-in-residence at Virginia Union College in Richmond. “I attended many of Mrs. Danner’s writing sessions. and I believe she is mainly responsible for elevating my work from free verse to poetry in the true sense of the word.”

Bryce also confessed that it is no accident that he will be matriculating at LeMoyne College in Memphis, Tennessee, this fall. Mrs. Darn/ner will be the writer-in—residence there next fall, and he hopes to continue to study with her. Both Bryce and Mrs. Danner are members of the Faith.

Mrs. Frieda Fowler Howard J. Snider

St. Louis. Missouri Smyrna, Georgia May I6. 1970 June I. 1970

Mrs. Lily Perry Goding Mrs. Ruth Tate

Gambrills. Maryland Memphis. Tennessee May 27. 1970 May 14. 1970

Paul V. Park James Vanasek

Escondido, California Milwaukee. Wisconsin June 2. 1970 May 12. 1970

Mrs. Bessie S. Powers Louis Hayward White

Monterey‘ California L05 Angeles. California May 7. 1970 ‘ April 1. 1970

Mrs, Freda B. Smith Mrs. Patricia Williams I

Des Moines. Iowa Glendale. California May 11, 1970 January 7. 1970

[Page 8]By Their Actions and Their Conduct They Proclaimed

The National Bahá’í Youth Conference held June 19-21 will long be remembered in Wilmette, Evanston, and Chicago. and in many other surrounding towns. The actions. conduct, and behavior of the some two thousand youth who attended the conference made a profound impression on the citizens of these areas.

The Director of Operations of the Evanston Township High School. where the conference was held. praised the Bahá’í youth for their conduct. for the way they kept the school clean. and for their friendliness and courtesies to all of the school’s employees. He stated that the Bahá’í youth have something that made them stand out, and he wished that he had a school full of Bahá’í youth.

In a letter received from the Food Services Manager of the School. she stated: “We of the Food Services wish to commend all of the youth that attended the conference. . . We were very impressed with the mannerly and appreciative way each and every one of them conducted themselves. Many were so kind to express their gratitude to the women of my staff. These kind words from youth today are rewarding and an incentive to all. May the youthiof your conference continue in their good will. They are an asset to all who have contact with them.”

The manager of the Y.M.C.A. Hotel in Chicago had nothing but praise for the conduct, the honesty. and the cooperation of the youth who stayed at the hotel. He said that every member of the hotel staff fell in love with the youth. Words of praise were also expressed by the Wilmette police, the Chicago police. and the Security and Engineering Staff of the Evanston High'School.

As a result of the actions and conduct of the youth, several of the high school staff are attending Bahá’í firesides; and .many youth at the Y.M.C.A. Hotel in Chicago and from Evanston and Wilmette have joined the Faith.

The conference staff had many examples of the devotion and exemplary behavior of the youth. The youth responded immediately to all requests for assistance and observed to the letter all the rules of the conference. By their actions and by their conduct, the youth at the conference helped to proclaim the Faith.

Bahá’í youth form a human “chain” around the Wilmette House of Worship.

AUGUST 1970

Hand of the Cause Rúḥíyyih Khánum addressing the National Bahá’í Youth Conference in Wilmette.

Part of the singing group, Wednesday's Children.

[Page 9]REVIEW

Goals of the Youth Program

(See August 1970 Bahá’í News Youth Conference report)

In addition to the report parenthetically referred to above, the following information may be of especial interest to the American Bahá’í Community:

The states in which there are no college clubs as of July 6 are: North Dakota, South Dakota. Wyoming, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Rhode Island, and Virginia.

To aid in the goal of youth deepening, the Office of Youth and Student Activities has produced two (of a series of six) deepening portfolios designed to make the study of the Writings the happy. creative, and inspiring experience it is and should be. These highly successful packets are now available from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust.

The major goals remaining to be filled before Riḍván 1973 are: to increase the number of high school clubs to twenty (there are twelve at present); to send 475 youth pioneers to home front goal areas in the South, New England, the Southwest, and the Midwest. It is estimated that over one hundred youth have already arisen to spread the flame of mass teaching to these regions. Please notify the National Teaching Committee if you are, or know of. a youth pioneer.

In addition to the twenty-five youth pioneers to foreign goals assigned by the National Spiritual Assembly on the final day of the Conference as a supplementary goal, the youth have also been given the following supplementary goals:

(1) $200000 as the youth fund goal for 1970-71 (please mark all youth contributions as “youth").

(2) Increase the number of college clubs to 200.

(3) Open 100 new localities in the ten states with the fewest Bahá’ís; and raise 20 local Spiritual Assemblies in those localities.

(4) Each youth should read and study Bahá’u’lláh’s Epistle to the Son of the Wolf by Riḍván 1971. and then send a card to the Office of Youth and Student Activities telling them when he has completed this beautiful and last book of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.

Purified by the tests they have so far endured; set apart from their confused contemporaries by their clear—sighted and divinely guided compassion; joyously grateful for the astounding victories already won; blessed by the bounty of Hand of the Cause Rúḥíyyih Khánum’s lowing presence: and sustained by the guidance given through personal prayer and National Spiritual Assembly directives; the youth of America are well launched towards winning all the goals given them by Riḍván1971!

The Office of Youth and Student Activities asks the entire American community to unite in prayer—inspired deed towards this objective.

Mrs. Joan Lincoln entertains, accompanied by John Cook.

DEEPENING PORTFOLIO ‘I

azflfléw 9/o/oh’ W/ac/n/a

Iffi“ ,flA"7' I I’,-,.l.’v vhf‘. _ -r; 1

A New World Order— per copy. $1.00; 20 copies $15.00. A New Race of Men—per copy, $.60; 20 copies. $10.00. Order from the Bahá’í Publishing Trust. 415 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, Illinois 60091.

DEEPENING PORTFOLIO N 2

[Page 10]I0

San Carlos Bahá’í group, March 11: Ellen Struven, Philip Cassadore, Roosevelt and Lillian Wilson.

Successes in Indian Teaching

(In the following paragraphs we tell of the enrollment of four American Indians and, thus, recognize those who have so earnestly helped them discover and accept Bahá’u’lláh’s Message. Roosevelt and Lillian Wilson, touched by a story in last year’s Bahá’í News, left their home near Chicago and went to Apache land. Later, they were joined by Ellen Struven of Maine. now a teacher at the elementary school at the San Carlos Apache Reservation. The Wilsons, with John Cook and Nancy Phillips as visitors, received Philip Cassadore’s enrollment on March 11. An invitation by Vinson Brown, and visits by some of the Bahá’ís and members of the Nevada State Goals Committee, eventually led to the declaration on April 26 of three members of the Thunder family.)

Philip Cassadore is the son of Broken Arrow, famous Apache chief and medicine man; he is the grandson of Chief Cassadore of the Gila Valley, and Chief Cassadore was one of the Indian leaders who journeyed to Washington to participate in peace negotiations with the United States government. Philip is the youngest member of the San Carlos Apache Tribal Council.

Currently director of the reservation’s Apache Community Action program, Philip was sought out by the University of Arizona's Anthropology Department to make a record of authentic Indian history. He has spent evenings and weekends collecting and transcribing taped interviews on the reservation and in towns and colleges where Indians are students. Invited to many activities by civic leaders and educators “from San Francisco to New York City,” he recently participated in an all-Indian Scholastic Convocation at Princeton University, where he provided resource material on oral Indian history.

And from the Nevada State Goals Committee bulletin for May we learn of the enrollment of three members of the Thunder family of Eastern Pershing County: Rolling Mountain Thunder; his wife, Ahtrum Lightning Thunder; and his son, Little Wolf Thunder. The father has been engaged in building an Indian Museum and park near Imlay, Nevada, which he advertises by signs and statuary as “Courtesy of the American Indian.” Dwight and Kenny Williams and Tom West visited the family on April 26, and the three Thunders signed their cards.

Minnesota

In November, 1969, it was learned that Anoka was a goal for an assembly by Riḍván 127. The group held a weekly prayer session for the attainment of that goal, and said the “Remover of difficulties" 500 times every Bahá’í month.

With Riḍván only six weeks away, Anoka, well known for its high rent and housing shortage, still had only four Bahá’ís. As the friends arose to help form the assembly, apartments began opening up at relatively reasonable prices. By Riḍván we had our “nine” plus a lovely bonus of_ one youth, Mrs. Sandy Borden.

AUGUST 1970

Minnesota Baha”I’s Visit With Indian Brothers

On May 30, the Pow-Wow grounds at Ponemah, Minnesota. on the Redlake Indian Reservation, were the scene of great fellowship between the Bahá’ís and our Indian brothers. Sponsored by the State Goals Committee. the Memorial Day event was blessed by having Gary Hillaire of the Bahá’í Indian Council as its guest of honor.

In the early afternoon a group of young people from a commune just outside the reservation joined the Bahá’ís to take on a team of Indians in a baseball game. The Indian team won!

The film "A New Wind" was shown twice — in the early afternoon and early evening.

After a potluck picnic, people gradually found their way to the pow-wow grounds. There. Rufus Johnson had set up a public address system. He and his wife (who is director of the Head Start program) had helped the Bahá’ís coordinate activities. Dan Raincloud. Sr., spiritual leader of the Ponemah Indians. appeared in full regalia and led the dancing. The Indians are never happier than when dancing at a pow-wow; and when all joined together for a climax of dancing, not one person could remain seated.

Gary sat at the large drum in the center of the grounds and played and sang with his Indian brothers. It was a great experience to watch and listen and feel the fellowship and understanding and happiness which permeated the air. He also spoke briefly and thanked the Indians for having the Bahá’ís there.

Roger Jordaine, chairman of the Redlake Tribal Council. spoke to the gathering and extended a warm welcome to the Bahá’ís, and Dan Raincloud. Sr., extended an invitation to the Bahá’ís to spend the night (what was left of it!) on the reservation; and he also invited us to come to the next big pow-wow on July 4.

Tree of Understanding Indian Council Fire

A big Indian picnic every spring and fall is held at Council Oaks, on the Vinson Brown Ranch in Healdsburg. California. This year. on June 6-7. the Council Fire was sponsored by the Indian Bahá’ís of northern California. including Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Luff and Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Jack. More than one hundred attended. including six Indian Bahá’ís, with forty-three Indians representing fourteen tribes. Special assistance in arrangement details was received from Waldo Boyd. David Duncan. and Robert Seigel, with some others furnishing food.

Saturday night was the time for a joyous cook—out under the beautiful oak trees, followed by the recounting of Indian stories and legends. About eighty people camped overnight.

Sunday morning activities included swimming and games and discussion groups. In the afternoon many talks by Indians were given. plus beautiful music by Bahá’í singing groups and by Indian singers. plus several Indian dancers. At the very end. Oshana Fast Wolf. an Apache. sang a beautiful pra_Ver—song to the Sun.

This had been a council fire filled with much good humor, fun, and an earnest desire to bring the races together in harmony and understanding. Many were reluctant to leave.

[Page 11]REVIEW

11

A Navajo Indian believer, Steven Francis, studies the voting list of eligible Bahá’ís for the election of the first local Spiritual Assembly of White Cone, Arizona.

The Spot

The “spot”—southeast of White Cone on the Navajo Indian Reservation of Arizona. The accompanying photograph for this report shows Navajo Indian believer Steven Francis tending a large flock of sheep, with a number of goats intermingled.

It might be assumed that Steven is resting. but the picture was taken by a friend as Steven was reading the voting list of eligible Bahá’ís for the election of the Spiritual Assembly of White Cone. Riḍván 1970.

Lambing season was somewhat late this year. This is why he was filling out an absentee ballot — as the majority of the believers in this Community had to do. The lambing season requires that the Navajos tend the newborns. and this year the mother sheep lacked milk for their new-born. Consequently. the lambs had to be handfed out on the range.

Nevertheless. the first Spiritual Assembly of White Cone was joyously elected under conditions of considerable hardship. The three Bahá’ís who assisted in the formation of this new Assembly had many experiences and bounties. They had to follow the flocks to obtain ballots. and in some instances had to bring mother goats and sheep back to corrals. They started out early in the morning and returned after dark to the distant hogan where they were staying. In some instances Navajo children read the voting lists and wrote down the names chosen for the ballot.

The Navajo Reservation is very vast. and Bahá’ís may live eighteen to thirty miles apart. The roads are narrow. sometimes muddy. then sandy. and sometimes nonexistent. At times one must rely on a sense of direction to find the Indian Bahá’ís. for there are no road signs to give directions.

The National Teaching Committee’s Minority Teaching Spanish-Speaking Committee. Left to right: Pedro Tijerina, John Cook, Marilyn Herrera, Reynaldo Cruz. Jr., Barney Baiz, Jr., and William D. Harrison.

National Bahá’í Fund

"THE YEAR": 1970-l‘77|

200.000

l50,000

I00.000

50.000

Fiscal Year

INCOME June 1970 to Date Regular Contributions $ 89,284.77 $254,|47.09 Special Coniribuiions . — 42,359.60 Toial Coniribuiions $ 89,284.77 $296.506.b9 Estates . . . . . . Z5|.80 |4.4b|.76 Oiher Income . . |,£>_B|.00 6255.76 Toial Income _ 9|.2l7.57 $L7J22:1£| Budge? ._$l |5.000.00 $3 l5.000.00

[Page 12]12 AUGUST 1970

A singing session, with Barbara Hubbart in the center. Some stood still long enough to have their picture taken.

Louisiana

A conference in Jackson, Mississippi. inspired Mrs. Barbara Hubbart to go again to Gloster, Louisiana, where several years ago she had taught a children's class for friends and relatives of a Shreveport Bahá’í. Gloster is about twenty—five miles south of Shreveport. It is a typical rural black community. As of April 18, no Bahá’ís; as of June 1, twenty—seven Bahá’ís.

These four pictures. taken at a “Unity Feast” that was attended by more than one hundred non-Bahá’ís, tell part of the story of how “a new spirit and a new teaching method" brought results.

[Page 13]REVIEW

Alaska Bahá’í News

The March 1970 issue of this newsletter had an eyecatching headline: Fast Flying Fault-Finders. But we’ll bypass all their prescriptions for backbiting, gossip, rumor, insult. etc. (‘.’) in order to give you a brief resume of their Matanuska Valley Winter Weekend.

“To the stirring clang of a genuine Matanuska Valley cowbell, the Third Annual Winter Weekend began on Friday evening, January 9, with dinner in the MEA auditorium in Palmer, the location for all the sessions. About three times as many people attended than ever before, or over one hundred from sixteen Alaskan Communities. . . . The spirit and enthusiasm . . . far outweighed icy winds, loss of electric power part of the time, and hazardous trips by some to attend...

“The youth spent part of the time at the nearby Independence Mine ski resort, and had their own sessions there and at the Miller home in Palmer. The Kolstoe home was the major hospice for those with sleeping bags. . . .”

A host of speakers presented “spiritual vitamins” in the disguise of: Living the Life; The Ability to Teach; Prayer; Looking At the Fund; Second Birth; Acquiring Knowledge of God; and The United Nations and the Bahá’í Faith.

Gambia

(Bahá’ís in the U.S. will be interested in this item, extracted from Bahá’í International News Service, No. 25).

Mrs. Eulalia Barrow Bobo, a believer from the United States who is spending several months travel teaching in Africa, recently visited Gambia. “When I arrived in Bathurst," she said, “I gave a believer one of my name stickers. He . . . said casually, ‘Barrow is your surname‘? I know a lot of Barrows in Gambia.’ I replied,‘You have to be playing a joke. Barrow is an English name, the name of my father, his father, and his father.’ He said, ‘No, Barrow is an African name from the Mandingos, a very great people. They were warriors, musicians, and one of the very rich men in Gambia is Mr. Abdullah Barrow, a trader.’ I asked if he could take me to see this man, and he agreed. . . .

“When I was finally introduced to Mr. Abdullah Barrow, I hardly knew what to say. He was so much like my people I could hardly believe it. He stood before me . . . a full-blooded Mandingo Moslem; with all the Barrow features. . . . ‘God has indeed been good to me,’ I told him. ‘I vowed if I every got to Africa I would find my people. I never dreamed he would make it so easy.’

“A date was set for me to be on radio. . . . They all noticed the Barrow in my name. . . . I was to have five minutes. We talked for forty—five minutes. It seemed the entire station gang was crowding in and asking questions. The Bahá’í friends had done a good job of spreading the name Bahá’í. . . . They played the tape at five o’clock news time and again at nine. . . . We prepared a big conference at the public library for Friday, and they announced it four times on the radio. They also had calls to play the tape again, and did so. Barrows began to come from every direction . . . teachers in public schools, a policeman, and even the newspaper editor was married to a Barrow, and this also gave us more publicity in the newspaper."

News Items

From Johannesburg, South Africa, comes word that a local magazine, Personality, recently printed an article about opera singer Norman Bailey. The article tells somethings about the Faith and identifies Mr. and Mrs. Bailey as members.

The February 14 issue of the Attleboro, Massachusetts, Sun reported the Comparative Religion Class at the Bishop Feehan Regional High School was addressed by

James N. Shamey, M.D., and that Dr. Shamey was invited to return for another talk in March.

An Auckland, New Zealand, daily recently published a feature story on the visit of Miss Pamela Ringwood to the Bahá’í Youth Pacific Conference held in Apia, Western Samoa, December 29-January 2. Miss Ringwood was the supervisor of a group of fourteen youth from New Zealand who attended the conference to meet with other youth from Australia and several Pacific island groups, as well as from the United States.

In many communities in the United States a little careful planning results in excellent publicity in local papers as Bahá’ís spread the word they are outward bound for their pilgrimages. Thought should be given to furnishing the newspaper with good glossy photos of one or more of the Haifa edifices as well as a smaller glossy of the pilgrim(s). Facts about the Faith should be foremost in the material presented or discussed with the newspaper’s reporter or editor. The Mt. Clemens, Michigan, Macomb Daily, carried such an article on November 8, 1969.

Bahá’í youth pioneers in Bluefields, Nicaragua. Left to right: Kristin Wilson, Michael Dunlap, Robert Wilson, Steven McKinst-ry, and Rainn Wilson, age 4.

[Page 14]

Palm Springs, California

As a joint project. the communities of Palm Springs and the surrounding county area of Desert J.D. entered a float in the annual Palm Springs Desert Circus parade. It was an ambitious but worthwhile project, for thousands of spectators saw our “One World One Family” theme illustrated by eight children representing the four races of man. and “Bahá’í Faith" in two-foot lettering on front and rear. Engineered by George Chandler and assembled by community members. the float was covered with colored tissue—paper flowers.

We share a couple of lessons that we learned: First. most parades have one or more public address announcers along the parade route, and in our case the parade

was televised. Give the parade committee a short para graph of information about the Faith and the float theme so they can pass it on to the announcers, who will want to comment on the floats and are grateful for qualified information. Include a pronunciation guide for “Bahá’í" and “Bahá’u’lláh." Second, if you build a similar float. with aprons completely surrounding the car or truck. our nearly asphyxiated driver advises putting an extension on the exhaust pipe.

Ten thousand hand-made flowers decorate this forty foot, Bahá’í Faith float seen by some ten thousand people at the Milpitas Frontier Days parade in California on June 7, This proclamation effort was made possible by non-Bahai parents, who helped make many of the flowers, and the loan of the cab and trailer by an employer of one of the believers.

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AUGUST 1970 Proclamation in California

The Bahá’ís of the El Cajon J.D. and La Mesa communities and the El Cajon group collaborated on a proclamation week end on April 24-26.

Since the young people of the area are quite receptive to the Teachings. it was decided that the various events should be primarily youth oriented. with a large public meeting that would attract all age groups. Attractive

‘invitations were printed. and posters were displayed on all

area campuses. Advertisements appeared in local newspapers and a college daily.

The first event was an indirect teaching. a Friday night youth party at the Treadwells’. This was attended by sixty enthusiastic young people". and the Bahá’ís were outnum bered by at least three to one! Bahá’í literature was Q

prominently displayed, and our youth answered many questions.

A beach party Saturday afternoon at La Jolla Shores attracted about twenty—five young Bahá’ís and contacts. representing a large area of Southern California.

An enthusiastic crowd of approximately two hundred attended the Saturday night public meeting in the City of El Cajon, and the Bahá’ís were again outnumbered. Our guest speaker. Mrs. Joan Bulkin of Burbank. presented a warm and direct talk on our proclamation theme: Bahá’í Faith for Modern Man. We were fortunate to obtain “A New Wind” for its premier showing in the San Diego area. David Yantis. a well-known guitarist and composer. and “Wednesdays Children.” a Bahá’í group from Los Angeles. provided an electrifying opening and finale. Those attending seemed reluctant to leave. and the refreshment period extended until almost eleven.

Our final event. a picnic on Sunday in a lovely area park. featured Knight of Bahá’u’lláh Fred Schechter. who spoke to an attentive group of twenty—four Bahá’ís and contacts.

An Invitation

Bahá’ís vacationing in California from September 18 to October 4 are invited to help man the Bahá’í booth at the Los Angeles County Fair. If you can. please write: Bahá’í Booth Committee. P.O. Box 463. Pomona. California 91766.

[Page 15]F‘

REVIEW '

Ca nawash Council Fire

Roger and Patrice Olson, pioneers in Oroville,

Calendar of Events

Feasts August 1— Kamal (Perfection) August 29 — Asma‘ (Names) September 8 — ‘lzzat (Might)

National Spiritual Assembly Meetings September 11-12-13

. g.-.8‘; _|; ~._;ua ’. 3 vi _ .' \ '. oi .

rm

Washington.

15

New Fiscal Year Established

Action was taken during the June meeting of the National Spiritual Assembly to change the fiscal year under which the National Spiritual Assembly operates so that it will now close on April 30. Previously the fiscal year has ended on March 31. This action also affects local Spiritual Assemblies since our tax-exemption ruling requires that they follow the same fiscal year as is used by the National Spiritual Assembly.

The immediate effect of this action is that the current fiscal year will be comprised of thirteen months. beginning April 1. 1970. and running through April 30. 1971. The National Spiritual Assembly has decided its current budget of $2.000,000 will now be spread over the thirteenmonth period and that the various operating committees will. in general. be governed by the same budget allocations as had been previously established.

Local treasurers and local Spiritual Assemblies will find it necessary to give consideration to this fiscal year in which we are currently operating in terms of possible increases in their over—al1 budgets or in reallocating their existing budget from twelve to thirteen months. This may provide an opportunity for many Assemblies to increase their budgets and further stimulate universal participation in their communities.

You will note the graph reporting contributions to the National Bahá’í Fund has been altered to provide thirteen month"s data and that the location of the goal line has changed in response to the allocation of our $2.000.000 budget to the longer period. The goal for each month during the year has been set in such a way that it rises by 3310.000 each month in order to reffect the continuing growth of the Bahá’í Faith in this country.

While our performance has been praiseworthy in relation to the goals for each month. the friends are encouraged to continue to keep the needs of the Fund in mind in their prayers and in their deeds. The period following Riḍván tends to be one of heavy expenditures in an effort to launch teaching campaigns for the ensuing year. These expenditures in relation to the lower budget goals early in the year create difficulties for the National Bahá’í Fund during these summer months in terms of available cash. The friends are encouraged. therefore. to continue their prayerful support of the Fund so that we may even surpass the commendable efforts put forth already.

Coming Events

Eighth Annual Makah Council Fire. August 8-9. Neah Bay. Washington.

British Columbia Summer School, August 24-September 1. For details. write: B.C. Summer School. 2664 Gore St.. Kelowna. British Columbia. Canada.

[Page 16]AUGUST 1970

. .95. I -. - Shirley Yarborough, at piano, and Dody Theriault lead the area Bahá’ís in song at the Declaration of the Báb meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, May 23.

Bahá’ís of Gallup help the Gallup Branch of the University of Mexico work toward its accreditation goal by giving it four books and a subscription to World Order Magazine.

Dunn, North Carolina, picnic-deepening-songfest gathering on

May 9—blessed with seven declarations.

Mass Teaching In Arizona CasaGrande

Nogales

Surprise

Chandler

F‘oll_owing the instructions of the Universal House of Justice (1966) on reaching the masses, and by teaching in the rural and village areas to the same extent they formerly taught in the cities and towns, the believers in Arizona have intensified their efforts and achieved notable results.

By working with the Arizona State Goals Committee, the Spanish-Speaking Committee, and the Area Youth Committee, plus the Phoenix and Tucson Spiritual Assemblies. they have opened new areas to the healing Message of Bahá’u’lláh, achieving undreamed of victories.

In Casa Grande, over thirty new believers have enrolled under the banner of Bahá’u’lláh. In Nogales, over twentyone people have enrolled. Even the tiny town of Surprise boasts three new believers.

None of these areas had previously been opened to the Faith.

The enrollments continue to roll in, and the latest news is that the town of Chandler has now been opened to the Faith‘ of Bahá’u’lláh.

PLANNING TO MOVE DURING THE NEXT 30 DAYS?

Help us keep your address up to date

CUT OUT OR PROVIDE SAME INFORMATI-ON ON POST OFFICE CARD FORM 3578 AND MAIL TO:

NATIONAL BAH ‘I cmraa My 112 LINDEN AVENUE, WILMETTE, ILL. coon (j

Iu------nn-n-------u----u---------------ATTACH YOUR OLD ADDRESS LABEI. HERE

Name (Please Print) NEW Address City Wain Zip

Area

NEW Telephone:

Name of new locality‘

(If different from city name)

Reminder: Have you ALSO notified your community and SGC secretaries of your new address?

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