One Country/Volume 21/Issue 3/Text

One Country
Volume 21 Issue 3 - Jan-Mar, 2011

“The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens” — Baha‘u'llah

Newsletter of the = Bahd international Community January 2011-March 2011

‘simertises Reflecting growing impatience Inside this issue On human rights, the UN revives > a special investigator for Iran eae - :

a The education and training of women and girls and the betterment of society

ae O

In Israel, a historic, restoration recaptures early industrial and religious history

eae LO

In Uganda the Bahai temple stands

for 50 years of community progress

The chamber of the UN Human Rights Council. In March, the Coundl approved a special investigator to monitor Iran's complian ce with intemational human rights standards. (UN Photo byJean-Mare Feri)

ENEVA — For the first time since its creation five years ago, the UN Human Rights Council has decided to appoint a special investigator to monitor Iran's compliance with international human rights standards.

“The decision reflects the world’s growing impatience with Iran over its increasing violations of human rights, even among countries that have relatively friendly relations with Iran

“We consider thisresolution areflection of a shared assessment that the human rights situation in Iran deserves the attention of the Coundil" said Maria Nazareth

Patani Azevédo, the delegate from Brazil

‘Those who follow the workings ofthe Council said the vote in favor of the resolu- tion, which passed by 22 to 7 with 14 abstentions on 24 March 2011, appears to reflect 1 6 anew willingness by the Council to assert itself when human rights violations are page

3 5 particularly egregious in a specific country, (pull ods "This vote is quite historic:" said Diane Alsi, the representative of the Bahai

page 12,

In ran, a dramatic, funeral shows support for imprisoned Bah ais

Abbas Effendi by International Community to the United Nations in Geneva, "The decision today to Suheil Bushrui: 2 create a new mandate to examine Iran’s compliance with human rights standards visitor's impact on marks anew stage in the Coundll’s exercise of its responsibilitiesto uphold and Egypt 100 years protect the fundamental human rights of all peoples throughout the world.” said Ms ago is examined lal.

Council, continued on page 4 [Page 2]

PERSPECTIVE

The education and training of women and girls and the betterment of society

IN BRIEF

" The education and training of women and girls is critical to the well-being and advancement of communities and nations

Access to knowledge is the right of every human being, as is participation

in its generation, application

and diffusion. Reforming the flow of knowledge from North to South, urban to rural, and men to women will free development from narrowly conceived conceptions of “modernization”

Efforts to educate women and

girls should be increased, and they should emphasize spiritual and

moral principles, a rethinking of human nature, systematic participation, and global solidarity

2 | January 2011-March 2011

[Editor’s note: The following Perspective editorial is adapted from a statement of the Bahai International Community to the ssth Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. The state- ment is also available at http://bic.org/ statements-and-reports/bic-statements/ education-and-training-for-the-better- ment-of ]

hat the education and training of women and girls is critical to the well-being and advance- ment of communities and na- tions has been definitively established. The benefits of such education have traditionally been framed in terms of economic growth, but material well- being is but one of many conditions that impinge on women’s and girls’ participation in the shaping of society. Achieving any meaningful and sustain- able increase in this participation will require a more fundamental dialogue about the nature of development, “modernity,” and the organization of knowledge- generating activity.

The human being is not only an economic and social creature but also a spiritual one with free will and a conscience that enables the search for meaning and for truth. Without the freedom to pursue this fundamen- tally human quest, neither dignity, nor justice, nor development—in its full sense—is possible. The Bahdi International Community under- stands development to be a global enterprise of enabling all individuals to develop inherent capacities and spiritual qualities, and to contribute to the advancement of their community. Development is an enterprise that demands the efforts of both men and women working together to construct a social order characterized by justice, equity, reciprocity and collective prosperity. The systems of education,

science, and technology, then, must be arranged in a way that reflects both the material and spiritual dimensions of the human being — permitting each person to play her or his rightful role in the betterment of society.

The division of the world into producers and users of knowledge is a deficient characteristic of the current world order — one with deep implica- tions for the quality and legitimacy of education, science, and technology as well as governance and policy-making. If most of humanity continues to be regarded as users of technology cre- ated elsewhere, it is unlikely that sus- tainable and meaningful development will take root. If access to knowledge is the right of every human being, participation in its generation, applica- tion and diffusion is a responsibility that each individual must shoulder and be empowered to shoulder. Reforming the present flow of knowledge — from “North” to “South”; from urban to rural; from men to women — will free development from narrowly conceived conceptions of “modernization”

Only when the equality of men and women — working side

by side for the betterment of their communities—is raised to the level of principle can the true potential of the human spirit begin to be tapped.

he experience of the worldwide Bahai community in the field of education and community building has shown that sev- eral concepts are particularly salient to guiding educational processes, including curriculum development, [Page 3]towards their ultimate goal, namely the transformation of individuals and their communities, These concepts indlude:

+ Spiritual and moral education. In the realm of education, spiritual and moral development has often been divorced from intellectual and voca- tional training, This division has often sprung from high-minded intentions oftolerance and respect, Yet it must be acknowledged that all societies are characterized by political, economic, and cultural interests that promote corrosive patterns of thought and be- havior among young people, imparting the ability to reflect on and apply spiritual, moral, and ethical principles will therefore be indispensable to the task of building a prospering world civilization,

+ Rethinking students, rethinking teachers. Every edticational program rests on fundamental assumptions about human nature, Achieving sustainable development will there- fore hinge on rethinking underlying conceptions of both teachers and students, A child — far from an empty vessel waiting to be filled — must be seen as “amine ridh in gems of ines- timable value” their treasures being revealed and developed for the benefit ofmankind only through the agency of education. Similarly teachers— their laudable profession far too long overlooked and underappreciated — must likewise acknowledge that ifthey wish to effect a transformation on the level of character as well as intellect, they must, before all else, embody and model the principles they teach,

+ Systematic learning and partici pation. The concept of participation also emerges in anew light, Effective participation requires systematic process of learning within each com- munity, in a way that enables the community to identify its strengths and its needs; to experiment with new ideas and methods, new technolo- les and processes; and ultimately, become the primary agents of their development, Cne of the first steps in establishing participatory develop- mentis to promote the engagement of an increasing number of individualsin processes of learning—characterized

Agriculture is an important subject at the Barli Development Institute for Rural Women in Indore, India

by action, reflection on action, and collective deliberation — in a constant effort to generate and apply knowledge to improve the conditions of commu- nity life.

+ Individual and social transfor- mation. The transformation of human society requires both the transforma tion ofthe individual and the deliber- ate creation of new societal structures, Individuals must be educated and em- powered, but attention must be given to the cultural, scientific and techno- logical, educational, economic and social conditions that shape them, The continuous interaction between the development of the individual and the establishment of new social structures provides a path of social change and avoids both complacency and violence,

+ Global solidarity. The challenges associated with removing abstaclesto education and training for girlsand wornen will require a global gover- nance system that promotes collective security, the promotion of human rights, environmental sustainability, and an equitable and just economic or- der, Among its distinguishing features will be adherence to the principle of collective trusteeship and the under- standing that the advantage of any of itsparts can best be secured through the advantage ofthe whole,

nabling an increasing number of girls and women to access education and training, to play an active role in the production

and application of science and technol-

ogyis not solely a matter of technology

or economics, Rather, itrequires nations and communitiesto address a far wider range of assumptions about development, human nature, pro cesses of knowledge generation and shar- ing, progress, and modernity, Political agreements alone will prove insuffi- cient, aswill the strategies and tactics of pure pragmatism, Only when the equality of men and wornen—working side by side for the betterment of their communities — israisedto the level of principle can the true potential of the human spirit begin to be tapped, Asprinaples of equity, justice, and gener osity become the metrics of pro- tam evaluation, and human nature in its totality, rather than just its material dimension, is considered, will true development begin.

January 2011-March 2011 [Page 4](ADVaUCEGEOT OF WOUEM)

Rethinking education for girls and women explored at UN

NITED NATIONS — The non-governmental organizations from education of women and girls, around the world reflected the theme ‘which is critical to the ad- in speeches, panel discussions and vancement of society, should workshops, include elements that acknowledge Inits statementto the Commission, the importance of spiritual and moral _the Bah¥ International Community development, observed how, in the realm of educa- That was among the main points _tion, “spiritual and moral development ofa statement and program of events has often been divorced from intellec- offered by the Bahéi International tual and vo cational training." Community (BIC) at the annual UN “imparting the ability to reflect on Commission on the Status of Women, and apply spiritual, moral, and ethical Partidpants from Belize, Canada, _principleswill therefore be indispens- France, Germany, the United able to the task of building a prosper- Kingdom, the United States, and ing world civilization.” it sai. Vietnam, made up the Bahdt delega- (The full statement can be read on

tion to the Commission, heldfrom 22 page 2.) February until 4 March 2011,

‘The theme of this year’ event was Curriculum reform “access and participation of wornen

and girls to education, training, cpanel discussion, titled

science and technology, induding “Rethinking Education for Girls and for the promotion of women’ equal Women: Beyond the Basic Curricula," accessto full employment and decent was held at the BIC’s New York offices work." Government delegates and on Wednesday 23 February.

Senior Policy Adviser on Education for UNICEF, Dr. Changu Mannathoko, Participated in a panel discussion at

the Baha'i International Community's New York offices on 23 Februaty 2011 as part of the annual United Nations

Commission on the Status of Women

a

4 | anuary 2911 -March 2011 ONE COUNTRY [Page 5]Among the panellists, Dr, Changu ‘Mannathoko — Senior Policy Advisor on Education for the United Nations Children’s Rind (UNICEF) — sald thet in many countries, the current cur- riculum for girls istoo often focused on the expectation that they will do particular jobs,

“The present curriculum isnot transformative enough for it to change the lives of girls and women." said Dr. ‘Mannathoko.

‘What needs to happen instead, she said, isto ensure that opportunities for boys are also available to girls, "It cantt be designed just for boys, it must be for both: she satd

Dr, Mannathoko also spoke about the problem of HIV/AIDS in southern Africa and the need to look at gender behavior in terms of preventing rape and violence against women.

Boys speak out

‘The Bahai International Community also hosted a series of events sponsored by a coalition of non-governmental organizations, induding the National Alliance of ‘Women’s Organizations (NAWO) from. the United Kingdom.

An unustal aspect of the series was the participation — sponsored by ‘Widows Rights International — of six young men and boys, who contributed ‘their own fresh insightsinto what can be done to support equality,

Ata workshop titled "Boys Speak Out." Charlie Clayton, 17, from the UK, reported on a school project in Sweden where gender equality was stressed from a young age, When both sexes were expected to work together equally, he said, the "boys were calmer and the girlswere more confident.”

‘Mibaku Mollel, 23, from Tanzania shared his experiences of engaging other young African men in assist- ing more than 130 widowsin vil- lages to apply for microloans to start businesses,

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Former Chilean President, Michelle Bachelet — Exeautive Director of UN Women — addressing the opening of the 55th session of the Commission on the Status of women in the Linited Nations General Assembly, 22 February 2011. (UN Photo By Deura Berkowitz)

“If more men and boys helped ‘wornen, more women would have edu- cation, They would become teacher s and the community would grow” satd ‘Mr, Mollel

Geation of UN Women

One of the most discussed topics a this year’s Commission wasthe ae- ation of a new agency, UN Women.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in July last year,

UN Wornen consolidates the work on women’s issues that was previously handled by four separate agencies

UN Women’s leader, former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, intro- duced herselfto the Commission on 22 February, explaining the agency’s aims,

“Thisis a vision of a world where ‘women and men have equal rights and opportunities, and the prindples of gender equality and women’s empow- erment are firmly integrated in the development, human rights, and peace and security agendas” said President Rachelet,

Over the past four years, a num- ber of NGOs — including the Bahay International Community — were deeply involved in supporting the qeation of UN Women, Eventually,

a coalition of more than 275 orga- nizationsin so countriesjoined the Gender Equality Architecture Reform (GEAR) campaign in the creation of UN Women,

“We are very pleased about the creation of this new agency" said Bani Dugal, the principal representative of the Bahdt International Community to the United Nations,

“Itis an important step, and it will hopefully give greater impetus and coherence to the work of the United Nations in its work for gender equality and the advancement of wornen.

“Our hope now is that governments will fully fund UN Women, so that it can deliver on its promises, We also ‘want UN Women to engage with civil society in a substantive manner at all levels, global, regional and national:” said Ms, Dugal.

January 2011-Mach 2011 | 5 [Page 6]

In Acre, the restoration of a holy place sheds light on the region’s heritage

IN BRIEF

+ The renovation of a Baha‘ holy place in Aqe, Israel, includes the partial restoration of an andent flour mill

+ The site, which was graced by the presence of Baha'u'llah in the 1870s, now also reflects the region's industrial heritage

+ The project has also restored the Ridvan garden to an island setting, with water now flowing all around

6 | anuary 2011-March 2011

CRE, Israel — After more than three years of restora-

tion and conservation work, 1a Baha sacred site is offer-

ing a glimpse into the industrial and spiritual heritage of this part of the Holy Land.

From the Roman era into the early 2oth century, mills on this site — some two kilometers southeast of the old city of Acte — produced the flour to feed the area's population,

“This was avery significant agricul- ‘tural hinterland for the dty." said Albert Lincoln, Secretary General ofthe Bahai International Community, “The mills ‘were part of what was probably one of the region’ largest industrial com- plexes. They were first documented in 1799 by the French delegation surveying the areain connection with Napoleon’s intended conquest"

But for Bahdts, this place has spiritual significance, said Mr, Lincoln, “Its one of

‘Above: Some 15 flour mills once operated at the southern end of the Ridvan Garden, and the buildings housing them have been recently restored

themost beautiful holy places associated with the presence of Bahdu'lldh here during the late 19th century

In 1875 — eight years after Bahgu dhs incarceration within the walls of the prison city of Acre — His son Abdul-Bahé rented an island formed by two water canals, diverted from the Netnayn river to power the flour mills, On thisisland, Abdul-Bahé created an exquisite garden for His father Who, by then, had suffered more than two decades of imprisonment and exile, Bah u'lldh called the garden “Ridvan" — meaning "paradise."

‘A swamp drainage scheme to curb malaria and increase arable farmland in the 1990s and 1940s deprived the [Page 7]garden of its unique island setting, But now, with the completion late Last year ofa project to restore those canals, the Ridvan Garden isan island once again,

A “verdant isle”

After Abdu'l-Bahés acquisition ofthe island, pilgrims from Iran and neighboring countries brought shrubs, trees and flowering plants to populate the flower beds, During their long overland journeys, some of the travel- erswatered the plants at the expense of their own thirst

Astestridtions on Hisnovements ‘were gradually relaged, Rahdtrllsh made His firs visits to the garden, He went there often, sometimes staying overnight in amodest house on the idand.

"He referred to it as ‘Our Verdant Ide and wrote some beautiful things in which he describes Himself actu- ally sitting in the garden at the time when ithad water around it," said Mf Lincoln,

“In one passage, BahSurlth said that He washere in the garden enjoy- ing its streams flowing, and its trees luguriant, and the sunlight playing in their midst? The whole narrative that goeswith it is an outdoors narrative — it sun, wind, water — all these factors” Mr, Lincoln satd.

‘The spot also became known out- side of the Bahdt community, Laurence Oliphant, a British writer who visited in 1883, remarked, "Coming upon it suddenly it islike a scene in fairy Jand,..The stream is fringed with ‘weeping willows, and the spot, with its wealth of water, itsthick shade, and air fragrant with jasmine and orange blos- soms, forms an ideal retreat from the heats of summer."

Using historic photographs and descriptions, an international team of architects and engineershasrestored the Ridvan garden to a state that cap- tures the spirit ofits original character ‘The team was assisted by the Israel Antiquity Authority, which provided a conservation survey of the entire site and carried out part of the work.

“Our task was to investigate and find asmnuch historical evidence as we cotld about how it looked, so we could

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Seheibuiieon iy The restoration work has reinstated a bridge as an entrance to the Ridvan Garden. The original wooden bridge has been replicated exactly in stainless steel, painted blue A weir has been aeated beneath the bridge to enhance the sound and movement of water as it flows south towards the flour mills.

bring the island back to life," said Khostow Rezai, a representative of the design teamn who oversaw the project

‘The two canalsnow flow, although, at areduced rate, on either side of the garden at their original locations, They lead to the flour mills — some of which. have also been restored, "We found an aquifer 4o metersunderground and ae using it to feed the canals” said Mt. Reza,

With the re-creation of the garden's original setting, pilgrims can now experience the feeling of a spiritual retreat, “We have tried to convey, to the extent possible, the tranquillity of the garden prepared by ‘Abdul-Bahé asa place where Bahdu'lldh could find rest" said Mr, Rezai, “Being able to see the water gives you an amazing feeling, You crossit, you stnell it, you hear it. Hopefully it transmits the sense of happiness and joy that Bahgu'lldh felt"

‘On the southern horizon from the site, Mount Carma rises up, the location of the Shrine of the Bab and its monumental garden terraces, They — along with the Shrine of Bahdtrléh

andits environsnerth of the Ridvan garden — were named UNESCO World Haritage sites in 2008

“With its conservation — and the pattial restoration of the flour mills — the whole site says something about the historical roots of the Bahai Faith in thisland and how they are intertwined with the history of the region," said Mr. Lincoln.

January 211-March 2011 | 7 [Page 8][soetaw DEVeropoGeeT 8

Capacity building seen as crucial

to eradicating poverty

IN BRIEF

= Baha‘ delegates to the UN Commission on Social Development stressed the importance of capadty building in global efforts to eradicate poverty

+ Such efforts should not merely be concerned with the lack of material resources but also the absence of ethical and social resources

+ A panel discussion on “Building Vibrant Communities* also sought to identify qualities of communities that are socially and economically healthy

At right: May Akale, a representative of the Baha Internation al

Community, prepares to deliver an oral statement to the UN.

Commission on Social Development on Monday, 14 February 2011

8 | January 2011-March 2911

NITED NATIONS —

Initiatives to address pov-

erty should give attention to

strengthening the moral, ethi- cal and spiritual capacities of individu- als and communities,

‘That was among the messages delivered by the Bahat International Community and other non-govern- mental organizations at this year’s United Nations Commission on Social Development,

“Efforts to eradicate poverty must be guided by a vision of human pros- perity in the fullest sense of the term — a dynamic coherence between the material and spiritual dimensions of human life." said May Akale, arepre- sentative ofthe Bahd¥ International Community, in an oral staternent to the Commission on Monday 14 February 2011

“Poverty, as has often been stated, isnot merely the lack of material resources, but also the absence of those ethical and so ial resources that create

an environment in which individuals, through social institutions and com- munities, can develop to their fullest capacity." said Ms, Akale.

Such efforts at capacity building should stress helping people “cultivate the capacities to become protagonists of their development."

Thisis especially so where it con- cerns the nest generation, she said, “Of particular concern in seeking to develop these capacities are the many influences at work on the hearts and minds of children and youth."

“Itis important to appreciate the extent to which young minds are af- fected by the chotces of their families and communities, No matter how ‘unintentional, choices which condone deficient ethical norms, such asthe admiration for power, the seeking of status, the glorification of violence and pre-occupation with self-gratification, exercise a profound influence on young minds”

“Bui Vibrant Communities”

Asa side event to the Commission, the Bahai International Community sponsored a gathering at its offices, titled "Building Vibrant Communities: Strengthening Capacities for Justice, Equity and Collective Action.”

Held on 10 February 2011, the event took the form of a partidpatory “World Cafe," Some go representatives from non-governmental or ganizations took part in an informal discussion, co-sponsored by the International ‘Movement ATD Fourth World and the Huairou Commission, which helps economically disadvantaged wornen organize for change.

‘Conver sations centered on iden- tifying the elementsneeded to create

ONE COUNTRY [Page 9]

communities that are economically and socially healthy,

“Extreme poverty is a violation of human rights." said Cristina Diez, who represents ATD Fourth World to the United Nations, adding that the most excluded and stigmatized members of society “challenge usto think of the world in a different way"

Justice, equity and collective action must be exercised to ensure that all members of a community can have in- put into decisionsthat affect the entire soup, she said,

Shannon Hayes of the Huairou Commission spoke about working with the consequences of AIDS in communities, Transparency, toler- ance, indlusiveness, empowerment and democratic processes are some ofthe characteristics that need to be brought to the task of community building, she said,

Erin Murphy-Graham, an assistant professor of international education at New York University and a Bahét, sought to answer the question, “What is a community?" Honesty, civic en- gagement and a concern for others are all necessary features, she satd

Following the speakers’ presenta- tions, participants met in smaller sgoups to discussthe Features of a healthy society, Many concluded that the values of justice, equity and unity would need to be included in conver-

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A"World Cafe” hosted at the Baha Intemational Community's United Nations offices on 10 February 2011, a8 a side event to the UN Commission on Sodal Development. Participants discussed the features of a healthy community

sations about building spiritually and materially prosperous communities,

Education and empowerment, particularly of women and youth — they decided — would help to develop the skills and confidence needed for community membersto recognize and demand their rights,

‘The United Nations Commission on Social Development meets annually to consider issues relating to poverty, so- ial integration, and employment, This year’ session ran 9-18 February 2011,

“It is important to appreciate the extent to which young minds are affected by the chokes of their families and communities. No matter how unintentional, chokces which condone deficient ethical norms, such as the admiration for power, the seeking of status, the glorification of violence

and pre-occupation with self- gratification, exercisea profound Influence on young minds.”

— May Akale, Baha! Intemational Community

January 2011-March 2011 | 9 [Page 10]Ceemgumiry BEVSTOPmeT}

Fifty years on, Uganda’s Baha'i temple stands as a symbol of unity and progress

IN BRIEF

+ Uganda‘s Chief Justice praised the role of the Kampala Baha‘t House of Worship in contributing to sodal transformation and religious unity

+ His remarks came at a celebration in January of the Ugandan temple's 50th year, which drew 1,000 participants from 18 countries

+ Chief Justice Odoki said the temple had had a “discernible impad on the lives of those who have been assodated with it and those who have visited it”

‘The Chief Justice of Uganda the Honorable Benjamin J. Odoki, was guest of honor at the celebrations marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Bahd'{ House of Worship in Kampala “The temple is a silent teacher," said Chief Justice Odoki, “a beaoon of light whose magnificence is a call to the Bahd'ls to arise and serve humanity”

xo | fanuary 2011-March 2011

AMPALA, Uganda — Ata ceremony to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Bahai House of Worship here, Uganda's Chief Justice has praised the temple’s continuing contribution to the unity ofreligion and social transformation,

“Itis areminder of what isto be put in place for a better future," the Honorable Mr. Benjamin J, Odoki told some 1,000 visitors who gathered in Kampala on 16 January 2011 for festivities to mark the temple’ golden jubilee.

“Celebrations such as thisare a glaciousreminder to usto count our blessings, to put God at the center of out lives, and to look at civilization as basically spiritual in nature” said Chief Justice Odoki, who was guest of honor at the event.

“The first Bahéi House of Worship on the continent — known as the “Mother Temple of Africa" — was built between 1957 and 1960 on Rikaya Hill, three milesnorth of Kampala

Chief Justice Odoki, who recalled that he was a student in the city when

the temple opened, said that the House of Worship has had a “discernible impact on the lives of those who have been asso cated with it and those who have visited it”

“Ithas attracted, and brought in through its doors, the diversity ofthe Kindred of the earth who have found spirituality inside it” he said,

A spiritual and social purpose

On 15 January, participants from some 18 countries — including a dozen African nations — gathered for a program of prayers and choral singing inside the House of Worship to mark the anniversary, Outside, visitors were given a taste of the various community building activities that the Baha¥ com- munity today offers

“Itis the combination of social welfare and acts of service that will re- generate the world." said Chief Justice Odoki, acknowledging the founda- tion of Bahdt schools "based on moral principles where children of different aces and backgrounds have cultivated

ONE COUNTRY [Page 11]lasting relationships based on the prindiple of oneness of humanity.”

The concept of the Bahéi House of ‘Worship, as envisaged by Bahatrlah, not only incorporates central meeting place for prayer and meditation but, in time, arange of facilities to serve the social and educational needs of the surrounding population. }

“Areas of education are very important.” said the Chief Justice “They are the founda- tion for development,

This is a very important

social obligation of the

religious groups, to be able to uplift the people because of the abject poverty the communities face, including igno- ance and disease."

‘The House of Worship provides a range of educational programsin its grounds including study circles for adults and youth, as well as several children’s classes every Sunday.

"These are for everyone,” satd Agsan Woldu, who lives dose to the temple and often serves there, "One of the thingsthe children learn in these classesis the presence of God, We have stories about the Messengers of God

and what the attributes of God are and

what we should develop And beyond that we have songs, because musicis food for the soul and everyone should sing and learn.”

“In the future, I think the House of Worship will be the central point, the pivot," said Mr, Woldu, “and the surroundings will be these schools, a hospital, and so on, People will come ‘up and say prayers at the House of Worship and then go back to their du- ties, Thisis a beautifil thing”

Religious unity

Robert Byenkya — another ‘Ugandan attending the golden jubilee — noted how people of all ages benefit from the temple's programs, “They are ‘welcome to enter and worship at their

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convenient time," he said, “Children, junior youth, the aged, people who are mature, they can come to be together.”

‘When people of different faiths — Christians, Muslims and Bahéis among them — pray together at the House of Worship, there is a special atmosphere, added Mr, Woldu.

The temple playsa big role in thet people who had some kind of preju- dice towards other religions, when they come here, they see that were all saying prayers from different Holy Scriptures, Once you are inside the House of Worship we are one in the name of God. And thet just brings ts together” said Mr, Woldu.

or the last fifty years, the temple's expansive gardenshave also proven to bea popular place for visitors to rest and contemplate,

“When it’s school time, you find a lot of students on the hill, reading," said Brenda Amonyin, who lives in Kampala, “Some people come and pray. They say their private prayersin the temple during the week days when the temple is open, Others come on sundays."

Chief Justice Odoki particularly thanked the Bahéi community for maintaining the gardens, "They rep- resent the spiritual purity to unite the world," he said.

‘About 1000 people from 18 countries attended the fiteth anniversary celebrations of the inauguration of the Baha House of Worship in Kampala Uiganda. On the evening of 15, January the outer paths encircling the temple were lined with candles and visitors entered

for an impromptu prayer gathering during which spontaneous group singing broke out.

“The temple plays a big role In that people who had some kind of prejudice towards other religions, when they come here, they see that we're all saying prayers from different Holy Scriptures. Once you are Inside the House of Worship we are one in the name of God. And that just brings us together”

— Aqsan Woldy, a Ugandan Bahai

January 2011-March 2011 | an [Page 12]H Ln

For seven imprisoned Iranian Baha‘ leaders, continued tribulations — and support

ee

R

Between 8,000 and 10,000 mourners from throughout Iran were reportedly in attendance at the 11 March 2011 funeral of Mrs. Ashraf Khanjani, who is the wife of one of the seven imprisoned Baha’ leaders.

IN BRIEF

= The seven imprisoned Iranian Baha’ leaders faced new tribulations — and evidence of support

= In March, the seven learned that their 20-year prison sentence had been unjustly reinstated, after an appeals court reduced it to 10 years

= But the turnout of more than 8,000 mourners for the funeral of the wife of one leader offered tangible signs of support

a2_| January 2011-March 2011

JEHRAN — The sight of large crowds anywhere in contempo- rary Iran is unusual these days, owing to the general unrest in

the region. So it certainly took extra

courage for an estimated 8,000 people or more to turn out for a funeral in

March — and especially for the funeral

of a well-known Bahai.

But photographs of a memorial gathering held at Gulistan Cemetery here on 11 March 2011 do indeed show thousands of people in attendance — as well as a scattering of security men with cameras on the periphery.

Even more than bravery, the pho- tographs are evidence of the obvious sympathy that many Iranians feel for the plight of Iran's persecuted Bahdfs, especially for the seven imprisoned Bahai leaders who have been the focus of so much international attention in recent months.

That's because the funeral was for the wife of one of those leaders, Mr. Jamaloddin Khanjani. His wife of 50

years, Ashraf Khanjani, passed away on 10 March — and within 24 hours a huge memorial service had been organized.

While an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 people attended, among them was not Mr. Khanjani himself, He was refused compassionate leave by prison officials, and so he remained in Gohardasht prison in Karaj.

“This is a desperately cruel turn of events” said Diane Ali, representative of the Bahai International Community to the United Nations in Geneva.

“For an innocent man to be denied the opportunity to be with his devoted wife as she passed away, and then to be unable to attend her funeral — this shows the depth of inhumanity to which the Iranian authorities have sunk said Ms, Aldi, “Islamic compassion and justice are nowhere to be seen?

20-year sentence reinstated

Later in the month, the seven learned that their 20-year prison sen- tences had been reinstated, six months after an appeals court reduced the original sentence to 10 years.

‘The seven — Fariba Kamalabadi, Jamaloddin Khanjani, Afif Naeimi, Saeid Rezaie, Mahvash Sabet, Behrouz Tavakkoli, and Vahid Tizfahm — were arrested in 2008 and charged with espionage and other crimes against the state that stemmed entirely from their service as members of a national-level group that helped see to the minimum needs of Iran's 300,000-strong Baha'i community,

After a plainly unjust trial in the first half of 2010, the seven were found guilty and sent to Gohardasht prison in August 2010, to serve out their sentences. Since then, the seven have faced a series of tribulations, such as appalling prison conditions, threats from other prisoners, and limited visi- tation and furloughs.

ONE COUNTRY [Page 13]A beacon of hope

Reports indicated that Mrs, Khanjani’s funeral attracted mourners from all walks of life, She had devoted her life to raising her four children as well as caring for others whose parents were unable to feed and dothe them.

“She was looking after up to 40 or 50 children at any one time, without any regard for their religious back- ground” said Ms. Alai, "This is the kkind of person she was —kind and generous, and a beacon of hope dedi- cated to maintaining the unity of their family in the face of harsh religious persecution”

Prior to the 1979 Iranian revolution, Mr Khanjani was a successful fac- tory owner, His brick-making factory — the first automated such facility in Iran — employed several hundred people before he was forced to shut it

down and abandon it, because of the persecution he faced as a Bah’, The factory was later confiscated by the government.

In the eatly 1980s, Mr, Khanjani served as. a member of the soon-to-be disbanded ‘National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahdlis of ran, a group that in 1984 saw four ofits nine members executed.

Later, Mr. Khanjani was able to establish a mechanized farm, But the authorities made it difficult for him to operate, Their restrictions extended to his children and relatives and induded refusing loans, closing their facilities, limiting business dealings, and ban- ning travel outside Iran,

Mr Khanjani was arrested and im- prisoned atleast three times before his latest incarceration in May 2008, “Life over the past three years since this most recent arrest has been particularly hard on his wife and family? said Ms, Ala’,

“After Mr. Khanjani was transferred to Gohardasht last August, travelling some oo kilometers there and back every fortnight for the women has been an extra burden to bean”

To add to their ordeal, Mr, and Mrs. Khanjani’s immediate family has been targeted by the Iranian government for arrest and imprisonment.

“At this very difficult time, Mr. Khanjani and his family can take com- fortin the fact that the thoughts and prayers of governments, organizations and people of goodwill throughout the world are with them, said Ms, Ala’i on the day of the funeral

In Iran, arsonists threaten reprisals

ENEVA — Following a wave of arson attadss against Bahé'i-owned businesses in Rafsanjan, Iran, many Bahiis

there were sent a letter early this year

warning them to stop forming friend- ships with Muslims.

‘The anonymous document de- mands that Bahdiis sign an undertak- ing to “refrain from forming contacts or friendships with Muslims” and from “using orhiring Muslim trainees” It also wanted Bahi’is not to teach their Faith, including on the Internet.

Should the conditions be accepted by the recipients, the letter states, "we will guarantee not to wage any attack on your life and properties”

‘The whole episode appears to be part ofa new campaign to fracture relation- ships between Bahéis and Muslims in the city, said Diane Als’i, the Bahét International Community representa- tive to the United Nations in Geneva.

“Ror more than two months now, innocent Bahéis have been having their businesses fire-bombed” Ms, Al#i said in January. "Some of them

wmnconecountryorg

if Baha’is befriend Muslims

have suffered more than one arson attack on their properties.” Atleast a dozen Bahd’i shops have been attacked

since October, she said,

“Now, in addition to their liveli- hoods, their very lives are being threat- ened unless they promise to isolate themselves from their friends and neighbors? she said

“What are the perpe- trators of such attacks and threats hoping to achieve?” asked Ms, Ala’ “All it demonstrates for the whole world to see is the religiously motivated hatred being fomented by certain elements in Iranian society?”

Ms Ale'i noted that Bahiis have approached local authorities asking for an investigation, "But nothing has been done” she said, "Unbelievably, they've even been accused by some of

starting the fires themselves, under in- struction from foreign governments” ‘The attackers have targeted house- hold furniture repair businesses, home appliance, and op tical stores, in particular,

Above: A Baha‘i-owned shop in Rafsanjan, Iran, targeted by arsonists.

January 201 1-March 2011 | 13 [Page 14]Reflecting growing impatience on human rights, the UN revives a special investigator on Iran

In the past, the Council’s prede- cessor, the Commission on Human Rights, approved a string of country- specific resolutions calling for “special rapporteurs,’ as these investigators are known, including some 16 for Iran.

In 2002, the Commission stopped appointing investigators for Iran in an effort to encourage a dialogue with the country on human rights. Then, in 2005, the Commission was disbanded in favor of a new entity, the Human Rights Council, which, for a variety of reasons, has been considerably more reluctant to criticize individual coun- tries — until now.

Human rights activists said they believe the moral authority behind having such a UN-appointed special rapporteur is a critical step in bringing to light the severity of rights viola- tions in Iran — and in giving encour- agement to human rights defenders within the country.

Increased legitimacy

“Today we have a vigorous human rights community in Iran, even though the majority of rights defenders are in prison, their offices shuttered or they are in exile,” said Hadi Ghaemi, the executive director of the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran.

“But their impact on the discourse in Iran is very significant, and having a UN-mandated special rapporteur will make a huge difference to them — and we believe it will make a huge different in the situation in Iran because it gives legitimacy and documentation to the reports of violations taking place in Iran,’ said Dr. Ghaemi.

Dr. Ghaemi and others said it was very significant that the resolution was supported by countries which have had good relations with Iran, such as Brazil. Some 52 countries from every

14 | January 2011-March 2011

region of the world co-sponsored the resolution, including many who are not on the 47-member Council.

In the discussion at the Council before the vote, Iran tried to deflect concerns by suggesting that the resolu- tion was a purely political move, led by the United States, which “has the largest range of violations of human rights within and outside the country,” according to a statement read by the Iranian representative, Zamir Akram.

‘The resolution itself was short, just seven paragraphs. It states simply that the Council had decided to appoint a new special rapporteur on the situa- tion in Iran. It also calls also on Iran to let the new investigator visit the coun- try. This would be the first such visit by a human rights investigator from the UN since 2005.

Secretary-General expresses “serious concern”

‘The resolution also took noted of a re- cent report by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon that expressed “serious concern” about Irar’s human rights record.

“The Secretary-General has been deeply troubled by reports of increased executions, amputations, arbitrary arrest and detention, unfair trials, and possible torture and ill-treatment of human rights activists, lawyers, journalists and opposition activists,” wrote Mr. Ban in a 14 March report to the Council.

Mr. Ban’s report also expressed con- cern about continuing reports of the persecution of minority groups in Iran. He specifically highlighted reports of persecution against Iranian Baha'is, and noted as well that members of the Arab, Armenian, Azeri, Baloch, Jewish, and Kurdish communities have also reportedly faced discrimination and persecution.

In the case of Bahdais, Mr. Ban not- ed that a number of Bahdis have been

arrested recently, and that seven Bahdi leaders were sentenced to long prison terms after a trial last year. That was denounced as completely unjust by a succession of governments, lawyers, and human rights organizations.

“The High Commissioner for Human Rights raised their case several times in letters to and meetings with the Iranian authorities, expressing deep concern that these trials did not meet due process and fair trial require- ments,’ said Mr. Ban, noting that the High commissioner had asked Iran to allow independent observers in to monitor the trial but the request was rejected.

Mr. Ban referred to the fact that the High Commissioner expressed con- cern that the charges brought against them appear to be a violation of their internationally recognized right to freedom of religion and belief, and freedom of expression and association.

Mr. Ban also noted that the UN also has been receiving reports of persecu- tion directed against Christians.

And he said that members of the Kurdish community have continued to be executed on various national securi- ty-related charges, including Mohareb (enmity against God).

Finally, Mr. Ban expressed concern over the fact that Iran has not al- lowed any UN human rights Special Rapporteurs to visit the country since 2005. He encouraged Iran to “facilitate their requested visits to the country as a matter of priority in order that they might conduct more comprehensive assessments? [Page 15]Review: Abbas Effendi

Christian churches and the message of religion in atheist assemblies, because He saw in the union of east and west, aportal to anew world where justice, ‘unity and peace reign.”

‘The distinguished Lebanese poet Henri Zoghaib commented that ‘Abdu'l-Bahé was the first to initiate a serious dialogue among religions,

“With this book..." wrote Mr. Zoghaib, "T discovered the nature of the teachings that Ab du’l-Bahé had disseminated concerning the oneness of East and West, and of Hismessage calling for the oneness of religions”

‘Abdu'l-Bahé sailed from the Holy Land to Port Satd at the end of August 1910, same 50 years after the Baha Faith had first been taken to Egypt by BahéY merchants from Iran, Following initial experiences of persecution, a modest community was established, made up of Iranians and native Egyptians, But the Bahdt Faith was viewed with suspidon by many, indud- ing the local press and Perstan-language newspapers published in Egypt.

Although he inten ded to rest in Egypt for amonth, Abdu’l-Bahd stayed for an entire year because of health concerns, He also believed He had a mission to accomplish in Egypt, satd Prof, Bushrut “Firstly, to revive the truth and purity of religious faith — whether Must ot Christian — and, secondly, to bring East and West together."

His vist resulted in a profound change of attitude of Egyptians towards the BahéY Faith at the time, particularly on the part of the press

“Whosoever has consorted with [Abdu'-Bahd] has seen in Himn a man exceedingly well-informed, whose speech is captivating, who attracts minds and souls, who is dedicated to belief in the oneness of mankind...” wrote the newspaper, al-Muayyed, whose editors had previously been antagonistic towardsthe Faith,

In addition to journalists, numer- ous prominent Egyptians sought out ‘Abdu!l-Bahé, These induded der- cs, parliamentarians and aristo crats,

among them the last Khedive of Egypt and Sudan — Abbas Hilmi Pasha — who exhibited particular reverence towards Him,

"There was also a very significant meeting with the jurist and scholar ‘Muhammad Abdu,’ said Prof. Bushrut “He admired Abdul-Bahd greatly and ‘wrote Him aletter. When you read it, ‘You can see itsfrom someone who rec ‘ognized that Abdu’1-Bahd had a special divine light in his heart and mind”

Abbas Effendi begins with an extended, introductory essay charting the life and work of Abdu’l-Bahé and his stay in Egypt. The book then moves to an anthology of Abdu'l-Bahés let- tersand lectures in Arabic, examples of the press coverage of His visit, an epilogue examining His legacy to the Bahl community to day, and state- ments about Him by Egyptians and other prominent Arab admirers

Prof, Bushrui also describeshow ‘Abdu'l-Bahésinfluence extended further afield into the Arabic-speaking world, “For example, in the Will and ‘Testament of the founding father of Arab-American literature, Ameen Rihani, we find this: Tam a beliewer in the unity of religion, for in its mirror, I see reflected the irmages of all Prophets and Messengers — Confucius, Buddha, Zoroaster, Socrates, Moses, Jesus, Muhammad and Bah #uléh,

In practical terms, religion is, above all, the recognition of the Divine Truth spoken by whoever has taught a single letter taken from the book of love, of piety and of charitable deeds"

Ameen Rihani’sniece — May Rihani — has acclaimed Abbas Effendi asa “giftto humanity” describing Hin as “an enlightened messenger, an in- spiring votce, and aprofound advo cate for world peace, the unity ofréigions, and genuine in-depth dialogue be- ‘tween the East and the West."

“We need ‘Abdu’l-Bahds voice more than ever before in these present turbulent times of religious fanaticism, misundertandings among the cultures of the world, and an easy readiness for confrontation.” said Ms, Rihant, who is senior vice president and director of the Gobal Learning Group atthe Academy for Educational Development, which is based in Washington D.C,

ONE COUNTRY

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January 2011-March 2011 | 15 [Page 16]

100 years on, a call for tolerance and unity reverberates from ‘Abdu'l-Baha’s visit to Egypt

Abbas Effendi: the Handredth Anniversary of His Visit to Egypt

—By Suhel Bushrui Al-kamel publishers Beirut

Available in print from Al- Kamel or as a fiee ebook

at: http //baharegypt 019/201 1/4/abbas-effend-

egypt html

IN BRIEF

= Anew book, published in Arabic, tells of the impact ‘abdu'l-Baha had 100 years ago among prominent Egyptian thinkers

+ The Baha‘t leader's call for religious tolerance and unity at the time foreshadows conditions in modern Egypt

+ The volume has received high praise from contemporary Arab writers for its scholarship and lessons for today

16 | January 201T-March 2011

new book by anoted Arab scholar suggeststhe idea of a “dash of civilizations" between the Mustim Bast and the Christian West were of consider- able concern 100 years ago in Egypt — and that a visiting Bahd¥ leader did much to calm the waters and show a path to recondiliation,

‘Written by University of Maryland Professor Suhell Bushrui, and recently published by Al-Kamel publishersin Reirut, Abbas Efendi the Hundredth Anniversary of His Visit to Egypt intro- duces the life and work of Abdw-Bahé toa modern Arabic-speaking audi- ence that, up until now, hasremained largely unaware of His legacy to thetr society.

During His stay in Alexandria, be- ‘tween September 1910 and August 1911, ‘Abdu'l-Bahé conversed with Egyptians from all walks of life about the fun- damental principles required for the building of a peaceful and prosperous society, Abbas Effendi, known more commonly as Abdw'l-Bahé, was the son of Bahtr'léh, the Founder of the Bahai Paith, He led the Bahét com- munity after the passing of His father, from 1892-1921

“It was important to present ‘Abdu'l-Bah4, not necessarily as. reli- lous leader," said Professor Bushrut, "butmore as a great mind who was able to convey an understanding of the importance of religion at a time when materialistic civilization was prevailing in Europe and America, and the Mustim world was over come with political and other ambitions”

“Thave to say — even for meas a lifelong Rahéi — through the writ- ing ofthis book Ihave come to be far more aware of the tunique personal- ity of Abdu'l-Bahd and Hisimmense achievement in promoting cultural and

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religious dialogue between the worlds of the Bast and the West-"he said.

‘The volume hasbeen winning high praise from a number of prominent Arab thinkers, whose appreciation of ‘Abdu’l-Bahé echoes that oftheir coun- terparts a century ago

Internationally recognized Middle East expert Edmund Ghareeb has de- scribed the book as"a pioneering and highly informative work."

“Abbas Efendi isa superbly careful and informative piece of scholarship." wrote Dr, Ghareeb, "which makes a major contribution to knowledge of the Middle Bast at a crucial period of its modern history, and adds consider- ably to our knowledge of this unique reformer.”

In a review published in the Lebanese daily newspaper As-Safir, author Mahmud Shurayh said Abdw'l- Rahé “found no embarrassmentin teaching the messages of Christ and ‘Muhammad in the Jewish syna- gogttes, the message of Muhammad in

Abbas Effendi, continued on page ss �