The American Bahá’í/Volume 30/Issue 5/Text

From Bahaiworks

[Page 1]


More videos to aid teaching

wo new 30-minute television programs, The Power of Prayer and Family: The Seeds of World

Pea ilable to Baha’ communities across the country in July.

The first national telecasts of The Power of Prayer will be on Court TV beginning in July (see schedule on page 5). Family: Seeds will be broadcast later in the summer.

The programs willadd new dimensions to the national proclamation effort, which was begun in carly 1998




with the national premiere of The Power of Race Unity. This effort has ¢ more than 60,000 people in the U.S. to inquire about the Faith through local proclamation efforts as well as numerous cable television broadcasts. The program on prayer, especially, had great appeal for people in preview audiences who had never heard of the Baha’ Fa id Ken Bowers, secretary of the ing Committe “Prayel and the m of pu











That’s what Baha’i

aad


Chelsea Allen (left) and Catlin



school is for

zpatrick cement their friendship during the recent Spring Children’s Academy at Bosch Baha’i School near Santa Cruz, California. Photo by Marsha Gilpatrck, Santa Cruz, CA




a responsive chord,” Bowers ch on Americans who are s



tual seekers shows that family, warm

community and improving your own life



are ve hese videos really address the Bahs’s teachings on

those issues in a very personal, and


mportant issues.

sometimes fun, way.”

This is just one of several exciting developments in media and proclamation support of the National Teaching




SEE MEDIA, PAGE 5

Ex-president gives Baha'i Chair Lecture



on’s former president pre


ribed a “consultative process” that

takes religious teachings into account as a path toward solving the world’s conflic

s he gave the Fifth Annual





Amine Ge theme of “Rel

speaking on the on, Conflict Resolution, and the Role of Leadership” at the University of Maryland, said global conflicts can only be resolved with a “synthesis of religious tenets,” because “it is the spiritual dimension that governs humanity’s conduct and behavior.” More than 400 people heard the lecture, in which Gemayel suggested that “the time has come for the creation of a





new universal forum that draws together thinkers, philosophers, theologians,

SEE BAHA'I CHAIR, PAGE 57

Southeast Asian conference attracts 15 into Faith

See learning and youthful energy reached a joyous confluence as 12 youths and three adults involved in hely

ng youth embraced the Baha’i hat the 10th annual Southeast Asian Community Builders — Roundtable Conference early in June.

T flux of 15 new Baha’is—and a teaching and service effort that has brought in several more since then—are a reflection of the work done over the years through the conference, the sponsoring U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office and its helpers in several regions.

A total of 105 souls participated in the gathering at Bosch Bahs’i School in the Santa Cruz mountains of California.

Youth were the focus of the conference. Many consultations were aimed at applying spiritual solutions to issues youth face, including violence in schools.







Several of the youth who embraced the Baha’i Faith at the June conference are pictured with other participants. Photo courtesy of U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office

‘Two messages to the conference from our National Spiritual Assembly, including a special message to the Southeast Asian youth, helped galvanize the proceedings.

Many highly respected Southeast Asians attended, including Lao Chue Cha, a former member of the National


Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Laos; Minh Tu Le, a daughter of the former secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Ba of Vietnam; and Sen Souern, a prominent Cambodian

Baha’i and former Buddhist monk.




» SEE SOUTHEAST ASIAN, PAGE 63

June 24, 1999

RAHMAT/MERCY KALIMAT/WORDS BAHAY ERA 156

VOLUME 30, NO. 5

“l-N-S:1-D-E:



YOUTH SUMMIT PAGES 52-53




MORE CONVENTION NI PAGE 54

See

WRITING THE FUTURE + CARTA A LOS AMIGOS HONOR ROLL » 50-5

THE NATIONAL FUND

Between May 1 and May 31, 1999

$2,250,000 Goal/All Funds

$1)390,644

See page 3 for details


“E-X-C-E-R-P'T-S “,.. in the beginning the believers must make their steps firm in the Covenant

so that the confirmations of

Bahdé’u’llah may encircle

them from all sides. ...”

—‘Abdu'l-Baha




[Page 2]ALMANAC


Anniversary of the Martyrdom of the Bab A Baha'i Holy Day

  • Observed sunset July 8 through sunset July 9; devotional

gatherings should be held at 1 p.m. daylight time July 9 (noon where standard time is observed)

  • Work is to be suspended

“(The Bab) withstood all persecutions and bore every suffering and ordeal with unflinching strength. The more His enemies endeavored to extinguish that flame, the brighter it became. Consider how the Bab endured difficulties and tribulations; how He gave His life in the Cause of God; how He was attracted to the love of the Blessed Beauty, Babd’wllih; and how He announced the glad tidings of His manifestation.” —‘Abdu'l-Bahé, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 139 ‘The Bab and a companion were executed by firing squad in a public squ: Persia, on July 9, 1850. For further study, see The Dawn-Breakers, pp. 500-526.












Some significant dates in Baha'i history

Late June and July


July 1848: In one of the most fateful months in the early ann: of the Cause, events unfolded that led to martyrdoms and ul mate glory for the Bab and several of His foremost disciples.

° The Bab transformed a heresy tial in iz into a formal public announcement of His mission, declaring before a tribunal—which included the crown prince of Persia—that He was the din Shih Muslim prophecy. ‘The Bab was beaten, then sentenced to death; the execution was carried out nearly two years later.

° The Conference of Badasht ended with dozens of followers confirmed in the conviction that the Bab had authored

independent revelation from God, superseding the Qur’dn and the laws of Islam.

¢ Mulla Husayn, unable to attend the conference, received the turban of the Bab and,instructions to go to the Mazindaran region carrying a Black Standard. As many as 300 men rallied around him on a troubled mission that led









to the Shrine of Shaykh Tabarsi, which soon was fortified

killed in battle the next February.

sted soon after the Conference of

se, which was arranged by

Mulla Husayn, he joined the Babis at Shaykh Tabarsi. He vas taken prisoner when the siege ended the next May,

n killed days

  • Tabirib, only v er proclaiming the spiritual

emancipation of women at the conference, was arrested

and held in Tehran until her execution in 1852.










July 26, 1868: Baha’u'llih, residing in Adrianople (Edime, in European Turkey), was condemned by the Sultan to perpetual banishmeng; this order led to His decades of confinement in






2 S { community to acquire legal status. 0: Shogh ndi completed his translation of the qin, the first of his translations of major works of


July 15, 193 ail passed away in Haifa, Palestine. She f steward of the ith from the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha until Shoghi Effendi assumed the duties of his Guardianship.

July 21-26, 1953: Fourteen Hands of the Cause of God were among 374 Bahi’is at the Europ ean Intercontinental ing Conference, one o! 's of conferences that launched a worldwide expansion of the Faith at the beginning of the Ten Year Crusade. July 4, 1964: The Baha'i House of Worship in Langenhain, Germany, was dedicated. June 22-23, 1968: The first National Baha'i Youth Conference in the United States was held in Wilmette, Illinois.

June 18, 1983: Iranian authorities executed 10 women in Shiraz, including 17-year-old Mind Mahmiidnizhad. Her death became an international rallying point in the movement to press Iran to end persecution of Baha’ July 1989: Sean Hinton, the first Baha’f to residein Mongolia, was named a Knight of Baha’u'llh. His is the last name to be entered on the Roll of Honor at the Shrine of Baha’w'lléh.









Facts in the “Some significant dates” section compiled from A Basic Baha’i Chronology


CONSTANCE CHEN, a Baha’i in Palo Alto, California, was one of 30 people nationwide awarded a 1999 Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship, | which recogni: notable accomplishments and potential of young people who are immigrants or children of immigrants. The Ohio-born daughter of a couple from Taiwan is pursuing a doctorate in medical anthropology at Stanford University, with considerable field research and a published book already to her credit.

leadership,




GLAYOL EXKBATANI, a Baha'i from New York

extracurricular activities and community service. @

Joun McGinsry, a Baha’i in Charlotte, North Carolina, and an acupuncture and herbology practitioner, has been el vice president of the North Carolina Acupuncture Association. #

‘SHIRIN RE a Baha'i in Houston, "Texas, was “Teacher of the Year at



SAFA SADEGHPOUR, a Baha’ in Santa Monica, California, graduated with highest honors from the University of California, Los Angeles, with a dual major in neuroscience and cyberneted ics. He received the only Phi Beta Kappa scholarship for graduate studies awarded to a member of his graduating class.




= NOSRAT,

named PETER KHAN, a

Mark ‘Twain Primary member of the School, where she has “Universal House been teaching for the of Justice and past 10 years. ® formerly a pro fessor at the

bt AMERICAN


PUBLISHED BY THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

Baha’i National Center 847.869.9039

Office of ‘The American Bahai 1233 Central St. | Evanston, IL 60201 Tel/ 847.853.2352 Fax/ 847.256.1372 E-mail/


City and English-assecond-language instructor at St. John’s University, was cited in the 27th edition of C Who's Who in America among educators who have made outstanding contributions in the field of language acquisition and assessment.



JON GANDOMI, an 18-year-old Bah in Mesa, Arizona, was one of 23 high school seniors in the state awarded a $42,000 Flinn Foundation scholarship, based on academic achievement,


KAILAN OLIVA, a 6-year-old Baha’i in Vallejo, California, was accepted to second grade when he was still a 5-year-old. His academic achievements continually astound his teachers, who say he is the best student in the class. #

a Baha’ in St. Paul, "Minnesota; was named to the Academy of Distinguished Teachers at the University of Minnesota. This honor gives the professor of AfroAmerican and African studies new faculty-mentoring duties and a stronger role in shaping the university’s academic future. @

University of | Michigan, is a

i _co-recipient of ihe: 1999 pace Pioneer | ward from the Institute of

and Electronics _

Engineers. During his 13 years in Michigan, he was part of a team that published groundbreaking research in 1971 on wave interactions between devices and circuits. This research is still widely cited by other researchers within the field, the institute reports. ©





Managing Editor / Editorial Content James Humphrey

Managing Editor / Art Director Amethel Parel-Sewell

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Print Production Specialist Aaron Kreader

Facilities Manager Artis Mebane

Contributors

Judith Alamia, Jim Cheek, Linda i Duper, Liz Dwyer, Omobowale Ayorinde, Tod Ewing, Marsha Gilpatrick, Mehrdad

Kazemipour, DeWitt Tolbert

Cp!

PUBLISHED EVERY 38 DAYS

lus one issue) for a total of 10 oe eee the National Spiritual ASseeobly ofthe Bahé’és of the United States, 1233 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201-1611. Periodical postage paid at Evanston, IL and additional mailing offices.

ADDRESS CHANGES: Office of Information Services, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL. 60201-1611 ( i

ISSN Number: 1062-1113 Canada: Publications Agreement # 1486683

SUBMITTING ARTICLES AND PHOTOS ‘THE AMERICAN BAHA‘i welcomes news, letters or other items of interest from individuals and the institutions of the Baha’ Faith.

  • ArticLes should be clear and concise.

Stories may be edited for length.

  • PHOTOGRAPHS may be color or blackand-white prints or slides. Please submit

phates Setare mel espooed and in and identify people in photos when eg ble. If you wish photos returned, self-addressed envelope. ‘DEADLINES for upcoming issues:

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page 2° Tne American BanA’i * ALMANAC/EXCELLENCE

June 24, 1999 [Page 3]


prec asetee ear \eeerte:

THE

SECOND-FRONT

CIRRE


rarteyy TFT SSIES


Regional Councils elected for

1999-2000

ocal Spiritual Assemblies nationwide eid on May 22-23, the y of the Declaration of the Bab, to vote for members of the four Regional Bal

These four consul tate teaching and A opment in each of the reg ed by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the Divine PI





ative bodies help mbly develns delinea ablets of the







» with din alphabetical order, are:

Northeastern States ibraham, MA Robert P. Harris, Hamilton, NJ John F. Joyce, Sodus Point, NY Neal G. McBride, Amherst, MA Rebequa Murphy, Rochester, NY Joel S. Nizin, Ridgewood, NJ Vickie Rene Nizin, Ridgewood, NJ Nathan L. Rutstein, Amherst, MA William H. Smith, Sudbury, MA


Southern States Covey H. Cantville, Plantation, FL Jack Guillebeaux, Montgomery, AL Robert M. James, Durham, NC Ahmad Mahboubi, Smyrna, GA Carole Miller, Lithonia, GA Mahyar Mofidi; Chapel Hill, NC Karen E. Pritchard, Plantation, FL Kambiz Rafraf, Richardson, TX James Sturdivant, Greenbelt, MD

Western States Shad Afsahi, Anaheim, CA Fereshteh T. Bethel, Anaheim, CA Carol Brooks, Golden, CO Derek M. Cockshut, Santa Cruz, CA Shannon Javid, Edmonds, WA Charleen R. Maghzi, San Francisco, CA A. Habib Riazati, Anaheim, CA Erica P. Toussaint, Milwaukie, OR Elahe V. Young, Grants Pass, OR

Central States Caswell L. Ellis, Skokie, IL Elvora B. Jacobi, Madison, WI Paul A. Jacobi, Madison, WI Jena Khadem Khodadad, Winnetka, IL Curtis J. Russell, Royal Oak, MI Morris Taylor Jr., Evanston, IL June Manning Thomas, East Lansing, MI Richard W. Thomas, East Lansing, MI Lynn M. Wieties, Rolla, MO



Anne Smits of Fort

was among the nine

Note: Lis Wayne, Indi





mitted her resignation, Wand the Na Assembly nized Elvora who rec next-highest number of votes—to fill the vacancy on the Council. @






Legendary musician Ravi Shankar of India (center) was the featured guest at a second anniversary celebration at the Baha’i Center of South Orange County in San Clemente, California. About 300 people witnessed an onstage dialogue in which the master musician recounted stories from his life. The Spiritual Assembly of San Clemente presented Shankar with a plaque honoring his achievements. He had composed the music for the dedication of the Baha’i House of Worship in India. Photo by Hehrdad Kazemipour, Laguna Niguel, CA


Enrollments

May 1999 .... May 1998-April 1999 ......1,473




eaeocsu SD)




THE FUND

May 1-31, 1999

Contributions received by National Treasurer





for ar:

ceived since May 1, 1999:




entire

$1,390,644 $27,000,000

cr eee

5.2% of year’s goal was met


8.3% of fiscal year has passed

April 30, 20004







Baha’is gain a voice in efforts to help in Columbine aftermath

uick action opened a door for Bah: the Denve: area to take part in a meeting om disbursing money raised for of the Columbine High tragedy in leton,

fs in





Colorado.

Jefferson County District Attorney Dave Thomas hosted the ession. About 40 people in attendance represented 12 groups, the gest of which was Mile High



Some groups had raised $2 million, others $250,000. The Baha’i Columbine Fund, created by the Spiritual Assembly of Denver the day after the shooting tragedy, had raised only about $1,000 from all over the world.





But their effort had been recogd in news reports from the start. im Danahey, the Baha’i who had the idea to start the fund, and Javid Djalili, the Assembly’s public information representative, attended.

People responded to the Baha’is evident attitude that they were there to help, “not out to impress anyone,” Djalili said.

Several times, he said, Danahey “made us proud by returning everytention to the needs of the s and the families. Everybody






also forward the


put favorably received idea of creating one umbrella fund for the f unity and easier administration. “We stressed that we would like to give away the money we've raised as







aid. “He reald and hopefully

soon as possibl ly got the B:

age of the religious community’s efforts to succor the victims and other residents included a major feature in the Rocky Mountain News by staff writer J

To create the art “Congregations gather to d the violence,” Torkelson vi eral pla hip. One was the Denver nter, “home to a Persian religion dedicated to finding world peace, but which struggled Sunday ke sense of what happened lorado.”

The writer noted that the Baha’i devotional service “ironically had




ited sev





been dedicated beforehand to children” and quoted Shahrokh Sadighian as saying, “Thi

spiritual disease we are seeing. The biggest challenge for America is racial harmony. I think God has chosen America as a testing tube for the whole world, for living in harmony.”

The article also described how 7year-old Crystal Hoffman “bounced to the microphone and, without sang a song in a




accompaniment, high, clear v Then, Torkelson wrote, Pomeroy rose to read the cou from the ... founders of B Sunday they prescient. ‘Take the utmost care to give your children high ideals and goal: that they will not be defiled by pass: . and be harmful to others.” @




sounded eerily



Allocations to

Other Funds




Arc Projects Fund $253,615

International Baha’i Fund $140,689


COoyiten one mer

RIV)


Other contributions: $18,292


Total cash-basis revenues and expenditures at Baha’i National Center May 1, 1998-April 30, 1999 (the entire 1998-1999 fiscal year)

NIPIR YD

Revenues (contributions, book sales, school fees etc.)



$22,665,257

Expenditures (operations, capital and debt payments ete.)




To avoid additional borrowing, some critical projects were deferred over the previous fiscal year. This also allowed revenues to nearly match cash expenditures.


Mail contributions to: National Baha’i Fund 112 Linden Avenue Wilmette, IL 60091-2800 Please write Baha’i ID # on check





June 24, 1999

Tite, AMERICAN, BanA‘i ¢ Tie, SECOND FRONT,» page 3... [Page 4]

The next year for the National Teaching Plan

The National Teaching Committee’s report to the delegates at the 1999 Baha'i National Convention

t the beginning of this Plan the

Universal House of Justice

presented the believers with

the challenge “to mount a campaign of teaching in which the broad membership of our community is enthusiastically, systematically and personally engaged.”

‘The three years since have seen notable progress in this regard. First, we have witnessed a great mobilization of indi vidual and local community initiatives. Among the most wonderful things to observe has been the trend toward multifaceted and healthy patterns of local community life, illustrated in the use of the arts, a sustained emphasis on activiti promote racial unity, burgeoning activities on college campuses and the nowwidespread practice of regular devotional meetings. The Baha’i community has shown itself to be wonderfully vibrant and dedicated to sharing the Message. ‘The generosity of spirit of the Baha’is and their enthusiasm for service in the Cause will bear a rich harvest in the near future. We are extremely optimistic because of this, and thankful to Bahdjis for their readiness to rise to the challenge.

Second, we have seen progress in building the necessary infrastructure for sustained growth. The Regional Councils, all of which are acting with great energy, and the two dozen re; training institutes, most of whi offering programs, are two of the most outstanding examples. We applaud the efforts of the Councils, which have inspired the believers and led to more systematic approaches.

Third, the series of national media experiments have been wellrewarded. The early results of the national media campaign, after very limited tests, demonstrate that there are large numbers of people who are potential or active “seekers,” with whom our Message resonates. We are now to begin our greatest national outreach effort ever. ‘There can be little doubt that the stream of people who investigate the Faith will become a torrent our outreach— national, regional and local—becomes broader and more refined.

It is extremely heartening to know that the Universal House of Justice has directly encouraged our national plan. Its themes have been endorsed, and the overall integration of proclamation, expansion and consolidation a been called “highly exemplary.” In one ssage, addressed to the delegates of Convention, the House of s conviction that “great victories hover on the horizon” of our community. All in all, we can be confident that we are essentially on the right track, and that what is required of us now is sustained and confident action.

Our belief at this juncture is that





















Iso















growth is now an issue that can be mastered with knowledge, intelligent initiative and thoughtful cooperation. Successful teaching will require of us not only the qualities of faith, perseverance, unity and courage; but also analytical discipline and the skill to apply useful knowledge to our strategies. Although the National ‘Teaching Committee has particular responsibilities in this regard, this is an exercise that, in one way or another, should involve every believer and every institution.

Now let us briefly review some things we have learned this year. The teaching plan encompasses activities at the national, regional and local levels. It is designed to facilitate the teaching work in a number of definable way 1. By targeting susceptible audiences and addressing them effectively. 2. By bringing forward interested see! 3. By providing local opportunities for action. 4. By creating a sense of national unity. 5. By promoting intercommunity coopern to address specific opportunities. By encouraging initiative to create








6. welcoming and loving local communities.



As you know, we have already received some 12,000 seeker calls and hope to see that number increase dramatically this ral regions the Councils and ve begun to integrate their efforts in metropolitan teaching campaigns that fe use of the media, in conjunction with an array of other initiaives. These campaigns, with all senior and local institutions involved and supportive, may soon provide breakthrough environments that will demonstrate the potential inherent in the combination of new methods and unified action.










We will soon face the challenge to attend to the spiritual needs of large numbers of people who will be coming into direct contact with the Baha'i community. Our success in this regard wi depend to a great degree upon our capacity to deal with their diverse backgrounds and interests with understanding and sensitivity.

We know, from surveys of those who have responded to the national broadcasts and from research conducted by others, that seekers are not a random lot. Most of them come from definable groups, and they describe specific needs for religious fulfillment. Their issues provide a window to the types of challenges that local communities will have to face in order to achieve growth.

Here’s what we know about seekers:

‘They are as interested in the life of the spirit as they are in social issue:

Most of them grew up in religious households.

‘They are not satisfied with their current practice because people don’t live up to religious standards, such as appreciation for diversity.

Nearly half are not affiliated, and the majority have ched religions.

Most have a strong sense of what defines religion. For them, religion is:

God-centered,

Defined by worship,

Based in scripture,

Rooted in community, and

Concerned with family and children. involved in good work















Iv is joyful.

It is moderate, non-authoritarian and participatory

It is inclusivé and also non-polit


‘The seekers are also educated and pro


‘Devotions grow switfly

Children’s classes thrive in association


service, and publ



gram in Corvallis, Oregon, which has grown to attract so many seekers that in less than three years it has outgrown its facility. The community regularly plans outstanding speakers and presenters, focuses on hospitality and

izes the event through newspaper and Web coverage.

with a weekly public devotional pro



gressive. Women predominate; they lead families into faith. In general, women are more likely to change religions.

Most seekers are from mainstream religions. The majority are Christian, but some 10% are Jewish, more by far than the 3% or so in the population. ‘There are significant numbers of evangelicals and fundamentalists in the mix. Even so, because most are AfricanAmerican, they show themselves to be progressive on social issues.

In all of these respects they are a close reflection of the present membership of the American Baha'i community.

Proportionately, there are more minorities, more students, more singles and more divorced individuals among those responding to our broadcasts than in our general membership.

Nearly 40% have been racial minorities, whereas three-fourths of our community is Caucasian.

More than a quarter are youth—a bright spot, which supports the growing evidence that students, _ particularly women, are expressing greater social consciousness. We may soon see a significant upsurge in membership coming from campuses as the children of Baby Boomers enter adulthood. This underscores the importance of being attentive to youth in our teaching strategies.

Many of the groups responding have special needs that are not well-served in

i gious communiti Addres ir expectations nd religious community will require understanding and thoughtful effort, particularly at the local level where seekers will come to inquire.

The response we are experiencing incorporates dimensions of diversity that transcend race and ethnicity. This is the issue of diversity—a diversity of temperaments and personal needs, influenced not only by race, but also by age, gender, edusion, marital status, , religious back


















gin,

ground and the like. Certain overarching

community,




in compli efforts to welcome and integrate diversity and must be thoughtfully addressed through consultation.

For example, like the broad Ameri middle class, many of us place higher emphasis on the private expression of jous faith than on communal and public interactions. It is particularly so of the majority, and stands in contrast to needs of others not so numerous but definably different.

As in most mainstream religions, the majority of us are married and about half of married households contain children. The general orientation of American faith communities toward families and

ou











SEE TEACHING, PAGE 5


page 4;

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ SPREADING THE TEACHINGS: June 24, 1999 [Page 5]

MEDIA, continueo From PAGE 1

Pecccccceccccccccoocce

Plan that will benefit local communiti in their efforts to share the healing message of Baha’u’llah with a wide array of Americans.

In other notes:

  • In May, the first month of the latest

wave of national cable broadcasts, an estimated 3,000 people responded by phone or on the Web to the 30-minute program The Power of Race Unity and an orunent of brief TV ads

Broadcasts on Lifetime, BET, Court TV, Odyssey and the International Channel were scheduled to continue through June.

¢ A temporary setback became an unexpected bounty, as the Life







Coeeecccccccccccccccce

cable TV network postponed all the spot ads they had scheduled for May because of “overbooking.”

The highly popular network, with a reach of 72 million households in the United States alone, agreed to double the number of Baha’i spots it was to broadcast during evenings in June— providing an even more visible proclamation of the Faith in that month.

¢ The national Baha'i Web site for seekers and inquirers (www.us.bah: was redesigned in early June to be more direct in its presentation and thus more immediately useful to

The new half-hour programs on prayer and family, produced by










TEACHING, continuen From pace 4

COCCCCEEEE OOOO OOOO O OOOO OOOOH OO OOOO OOOO OOOO®

children makes it easier to overlook the special religious needs of non-traitional houscholds—now the majority in America—and harder to maintain certain categories of people in membership.

‘This challenge of complexity involves attracting and holding not just racial and ethnic minorities, but young people, single men and women, the divorced, the widowed and elderly, the | ducated and othe








especia val at the level of local community, as this campaign evolves.

What does this s al growth strategy?

The Universal House of Justi listed three developmental objectiv this Plan. The reality of diversity in all its dimensions, among seekers and within our present membership, must be suit of each of them.

‘The training of individual believers needs to incorporate attention to the issue of sensitivity to diversity. After all, it is already well-established that the most successful teachers are those who are most able to address the concerns and ngs of the seekers, with love and with ining programs should now include sharing of the knowledge that is being gleaned from our outreach effort

believe that increase the confid help to address the challenge for them to spiritually and mentally accept the possibility of entry by troops

For the institutions, approaches that accommodate, even encourage, human diversity will foster both vibrancy and viability in Baha’i community life thereby ensuring that masses of people will have a meaningful experience as they come into association with us. The proper assessment of membership needs, defined by the membership itself, and the self-sacrifice necessary for such a practice, must become a hallmark of Baha'i leadership.

Our community life must also grow stronger. All growth is local in one sense. Conversion of seekers will be determined in large measure by the perceived quality







acknowledged in pui















community. There



believers are indeed very interested building diver nd united communities, s individuals they strive to put into practice the high ideals of our Faith. This trend needs to accelerate.

Effective community development for us will require a more focused, informed and consistent effort to accommodate legitimate differences among us, which seckers illustrate. The chang demographics of the country make attention to these priorities more urgent. Non-traditional households have already eclipsed the traditional family in numbers. And over the next generation or wwvo, the proportion of minorities of every kind will grow dramatically. By the middle of the next century Caucasians will become a bare majority in the population. Certain key states— s, Florida, New York, to name a few—will reach this milestone even sooner. California, for example, which has the largest Bal ship, has already become the first

















less than half of the Secon

At the national level efforts are being made to reach more diverse audiences. This spring we have programming and commerci: i






the International Channel, Court TV. Lifetime ‘Television. The latter, Lifetime, will have broadcasts of three different commercials. That network rea tually every home that has cable, million households, representing a




potential viewing audience of more than



they become available. For WGN cable has approved our programming, but is sold out until later this year.

As the efforts with media progress we will address different audience segments with different videos. We are working toward completion of a film directed at conservative Christian audiences and other projects are under way to address Native Americans, Hispanics and women. ‘The next release will be of a video tied The Power of Prayer. This production has

¢





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SIDCorp and U.S. Baha'i Media Services, continue to present themes of the National ‘Teaching Plan.

‘They show Baha'is in everyday activities, conveying their own spirituality and love for each other in their words and deeds.

Direct presentation of Baha’f teachings are given in between “story” segments, following the format that succeeded so well in The Power of Race Unity.

A future 30-minute — program presenting Baha’{ teachings on the equality of women and men is still in the works. Other videos in the planning stages are to address the Baha’f message to American Indian and Hispanic perspectives.




VIDEO BROADCASTS —

All times EDT; please adjust schedules for your time zone.

The Power of Prayer

  • Court TY: 9:30 a.m. Sundays |

7/4, 8/1, 872.9, 9126

  • Bravo: 10 a.m. selected peal

and Fridays through Sept. 24; final schedule pending. %


The Power of Race Unity ;

  • Court TV: 9:30 a.m. Sundays 5

7I18, 8/15, 9/12

  • Bravo: 10 a.m. selected Tuesdays

and Fridays through Sept. 24; final schedule pending. ® i

00000000 OCOCHOEO OOOO OOO OOO OOOO OO OOOO OOOO OOOOO®


Baha'is


Serving and promoting the teachings


and their friends from the Orlando, Florida, area display their Baha’iinspired “No room in my heart for prejudice” T-shirts in which they appeared on a public television as volunteers for a fund drive on Naw-Rdz. Pledges during the Baha’i stint, which came during children’s programming, exceeded the fund-raising goal for the segment. Photo by Judith Alamia, Winter Springs, FL



received the greatest acceptance yet in tests with non-Baha’i viewers.

In addition to materials for broadcast, we are working with NSA agencies and others to vastly expand our Internet presence—in part to reach large numbers of receptive youth—and to implement a plan for a sustained presence of Baha'i literature in the retail book trade. In these ways, and with the principle of sensitivity to audiences as our guide, we will reach out to larger and larger numbers of our countrymen. it increase in interaction with se:

inevitably change the realities of community life, will alter the prioriti the Institutions, and wi of what it will take to achieve sustained expansion. Our ability to know local community dynamics at any given point in time, and to apply that knowledge toward practical outcomes, will assist the process of entry by troops.

April 26 marked the 80th anniversary of the unveiling of the Tablets of the Divine Plan. That unveiling took place in 1919, at the end of the First World War, at that memorable 11th Mashriqu’lConvention, designated by














bdu’l-Baha as the “Convention of the nant” and held at the McAlpine Hotel in New York City. The torn world was at last momentarily at peace!

Concurrent with that gathering,

Paris, the Peace Conference was convening to address the resolution of the political, economic and social conditions of the postwar world. That resolution could only provide temporary peace. However, the call of the Master, raised through the ‘Tablets of the Divine Plan for the spiritual conquest of the planet, set in motion a process which will, over time, culminate in a lasting peace!

‘That call of the Beloved had such potency that it set on fire the souls of those present and generated a _ response passionate that it has continued ever since, bringing the redeeming Message of Baha’u'llah to a suffering humanity. And now that we are in the fourth year of the Four Year Plan, the latest stage in the unfoldment of the Divine Plan, we beseech the beloved Master to bless our endeavors and guide our steps toward the realization of the day “which ... will witness the entry by troops of peoples of divers nations and races into the Baha'i world.” @












so





June 24, 1999

‘Tie, AMERICAN BANA‘L ?, SPREADING THE TEACHINGS. page,5) [Page 6]

Who is Writing the Future?

Reflections on the Twentieth Century: Part 2 of 3

As printed in the issue of May 17, 1999, the first section of this statement noted that:

° The world is increasingly recognizing the worth of the message of Babd’u'lléh, even though that message has aroused sometimesdeadly opposition.

  • The spiritual view of reality proclaimed by

Baha'u'llah clarifies that the human race as a whole is maturing, and that wars and prejudices are signs that this maturing process is still incomplete.

  • Unification of the earth’s inhabitants is

the next, inescapable stage in the process of social evolution. Thus, for all its disasters, the 20th century is seen by Baha'is as the “century of light” because of changes in how people around the world regard one another.

  • Formation of the United Nations was a

great historical benchmark at the midpoint of this century, laying the foundation for international peacekeeping and bringing human rights to a forefront of attention never before achieved.

  • At the same time, economic life became

more globalized, with several agencies created to rationalize and advance the material prosperity of the planet.

¢ Education has been increasingly brought to the masses worldwide, through the efforts of national and local governments and international agencies, as well as the information technology explosion.

is process of structural reorganization on a planetary scale was animated and reinforced by a profound shift of consciousness. Entire populations found themselves abruptly compelled to face the costs of ingrained habits of mind that breed conflict—and to do so in the full glare of worldwide censure of what were once considered acceptable practices and attitudes. The effect was to stimulate revolutionary change in the way that people regard one another. ‘Throughout history, for example, experience seemed to demonstrate—and religious teaching to confirm—that women are essentially inferior in nature to men. Overnight, in the historical scheme of things, this prevailing perception was suddenly everywhere in retreat. However long and painful may be the process of giving full effect to Baha’u’llah’s assertion that women and men are in every sense equal, intellectual and moral support for any opposing view steadily disintegrates. Yet another fixture of humanity’s view of itself throughout past millenni: a celebration of ethnic distinctions which, in recent centuries, had hardened into various racist fantasies. With a swiftness that is breathtaking in the perspective of history, the twentieth century saw the unity of the human race establish itself as a guiding principle of international order. ‘Today, the ethnic conflicts that continue to wreak havoc in many parts of the world are seen not as natural features of the relations among diverse peoples, but as willful







Ww:




‘THIS STATEMENT, FROM THE BAHA'I INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY'S OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION, IS BEING PUBLISHED IN THE AMERICAN BAHA OVER THREE SUCCESSIVE ISSUES. COMPLETE TEXT IS ON THE WEB AT HTTP://WWW.US, BAHAI.ORG/HUMANRIGHTS/HRSTMT | HTM

aberrations that must be brought under effective international control.

‘Throughout humanity’s long childhood, it was also assumed—again with the full concurrence of organized religion— that poverty was an enduring and inescapable feature of the social order. Now, however, this mind-set, an assumption that had shaped the priorities of every economic system the world had ever known, has been universally rejected. In theory at least, government has come to be everywhere regarded as essentially a trustee responsible to ensure the wellbeing of all of society’s members.

Particularly significant—because of its intimate relationship with the roots of human motivation—was the loosening of the grip of religious prejudice. Prefigured in the “Parliament of Religions” that attracted intense interest as the nineteenth century was drawing to a close, the process of interfaith dialogue and collaboration reinforced the effects of secularism in undermining the once impregnable walls of clerical authority. In the face of the transformation in religious conceptions that the past hundred years witnessed, even the current outburst of fundamentalist reaction may come, in retrospect, to be seen as little more than desperate rear-guard actions against an inevitable dissolution of sectarian control. In the words of Baha'u'llah, “There can be no doubt whatever that the peoples of the world, of whatever race or religion, derive their inspiration from one heavenly Source, and are the subjects of one God.”6

During these critical decades the human mind was also experiencing fundamental changes in the way that it understood the physical universe. The first half of the century saw the new theories of relativity and quantum mechanics—both of them intimately related to the nature and operation of light—revolutionize the field of physics and alter the entire course of entific development. It became apparent that classical physics could explain phenomena within only a limited range. A new door had suddenly opened into the study of both the minute constituents of verse and its large cosmological systems, a change whose effects went far beyond physics, shaking the very foundations of a world view that had dominated scientific thinking for centuries. Gone forever were the images of a mechanical universe run like a clock and a presumed separation between observer and observed, between mind and matter. Against the background of the far-reaching studies thus made possible, theoretical science now begins to address the possibility that purpose and intelligence are














ndeed intrinsic to the nature and operation of the universe.

In the wake of these conceptual changes, humanity entered an era in which interaction among physical sciences—physics, chemistry, and biology, along with the nascent science of ecology—opened breathtaking possibilities for the enhancement of life. The benefits in such vital areas of concern as agriculture and medicine became dramatically apparent as did those brought about by success in tapping new sources of energy. Simultaneously, the new field of materials science began providing a wealth of specialized resources unknown when the century opened—plastics, optical fibers, carbon fibers.

Such advances in science and technology were reciprocal in their effects. Grains of sand—the most humble and ostensibly worthless of materials—metamorphosed into silicon wafers and optically pure glass, making possible the creation of worldwide communications networks. This, together with the deployment of ever more sophisticated satellite systems, has begun providing access to the accumulated knowledge of the entire human race for people everywhere, without distinction. It is apparent that the decades immediately ahead will see the integration of telephone, television, and computer technologies into a single, unified system. of communication and_ information, whose inexpensive appliances will be available on a mass scale. It would be difficult to exaggerate the psychological and social impact of the anticipated replacement of the jumble of existing monetary systems—for many, the ultimate fortress of nationalist pride—by a single world currency operating largely through electronic impu

Indeed, the unifying effect of the wentieth century revolution is nowhere more readily apparent than in the implications of the changes that took place in scientific and technological life. At the most obvious level, the human race is now endowed with the means needed to realize the visionary goals summoned up by a steadily maturing consciousness. Viewed more deeply, this empowerment is potenble to all of the earth’s inhabits, without regard to race, culture, or . “A new life,” Baha'u'llah prophetiaw, “is, in this age, stirring within all the peoples of the earth; and yet none hath discovered its cause or perceived its motive.”? ‘Today, more than a century after these words were written, the implications of what has since taken place begin to be apparent to thoughtful minds everywhere.


















Ti

‘To appreciate the transformations brought about by the period of history now ending is not to deny the accompanying darkness that throws the achievements into sharp relief: the deliberate extermination of millions of helpless human beings, the invention and use of new weapons of destruction capable of annihilating whole populations, the rise of ideologies that suffocated the spiritual and intellectual life of entire nations, damage to the physical environment of the planet on a scale so massive that it may take centuries to heal, and the incalculably greater damage done to generations of children taught to believe that violence, indecency, and selfishness are triumphs of personal liberty. Such are only the more obvious of a catalogue of evils, unmatched in history, whose lessons our era will leave for the education of the chastened generations who will follow us.

Darkness, however, is not a phenomenon endowed with some form of existence, much less autonomy. It does not extinguish light nor diminish it, but marks out those areas that light has not reached or adequately illumined. So will twentieth century civilization no doubt be assessed by the historians of a more mature and dispassionate age. The ferocities of animal nature, which raged out of control through these critical years and seemed at times to threaten society's very survival, did not in fact prevent the steady unfoldment of the creative potentialities which human consciousness possesses. On the contrary. As the century advanced, growing numbers of people awakened to how empty were the allegiances and how ntial the fears that had held them captive only short years before.

“Peerless is this Day,” Baha'u'llah insists, “for it is as the eye to past ages and centuries, and as a light unto the darkness of the times.”8 In this perspective, the issue is not the darkness that slowed and obscured the progress achieved in the extraordinary hundred years now ending. It is, rather, how much more suffering and ruin must be experienced by our race before we wholeheartedly accept the spiritual nature that makes us a single people, and gather the courage to plan our future in the light of what has been so painfully learned.

Next: moral challenges of cooperation, justice 5 and a necessary change in how jews God. @













and serv humanity


Footnotes: 6. Baha'u'llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahd'u'llah, section CXI.

7. Baha'u'llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah, section XCVI.

8. Baha’u'llah, quoted in Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice (Wilmette: Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1990), p. 79. i HEE






page 6

Tre AMERICAN BanA’i * Special MessaGe

June 24, 1999 [Page 7]~ PROMOTING the PRINCIPLES


The advancement of women and race unity

BY TOD EWING

he Universal House of Justice in

its Ridvan 153 message called for

North America to “strive to create a Baha’f community which will offer to the entire world a vibrant model of unity in diversity” and also to “become renowned for its social cohesion. ...” Achieving these goals will take much wis dom and perseverance. At the same time, I believe the process will be greatly isted as the equality of men and women moves closer to full r








zation.


Traditional leadership and conflict

Clearly our world is in a state of isarray and conflict. This is due, in no small measure, to the inadequacy of leadership in far too many arenas of life and particularly the adversarial nature of that leadership. The problems that have resulted from power-based, competitive, adversarial styles of leadership are too numerous to mention. However, I would like to discuss one of the consequences that I believe must be addressed and addressed rapidly if we are to su mitigate the suffering of huma the end of the century approaches and the Lesser Peace unfolds.

‘There exists a climate, many arenas of lif by. distrust, ho:














ffecting far too is characterized ility, suspicion, fear, ‘That climate is a feature of humanity dwelling in its adolescence. In that stage, the traditional styles of leadership mentioned above tend to dominate and prevail. However, I believe that approach has clearly reached its own particular “gla ceiling.” In other words, that way of conducting human affairs can go no further in advancing the best interests of the human race.

The Universal House of Justice has stated that “the entrenched pattern of conflict” must turn into “a world in which harmony and cooperation [will] prevail.” Such cooperation can only be based on the premise of the “unshakable consciousness of the oneness of mankind,” which calls for the abandonment of “prejudice of every kind. ...”

‘These changes will occur only when women and the qualities that women possess are catapulted forward in all areas of life. This is clear. The Writings state that “force is losing its weight” and that the new age will be an age “less masculine, and more permeated with feminine ideals. ...” ‘They also explain that, until women advance, “the happiness of the world will not be realized” and “the highest social development of mankind is not possible.” Furthermore they state that “the greatness of this wondrous Age will be manifested as a result of progress in the world of women.”

These are powerful statements; but even further, the Universal House of Justice calls the “emancipation of















women, the full equality between the sexes one of the most important though less acknowledged prerequisites of peace.” It then goes on to claim that “only as women are welcomed into full partnership in all fields of human endeavor will the moral and psycholog‘al climate be created in which internace can emerge.” This is a



gnificant acknowledgment of the role


of women in our society and a description of the conditions that we must bring to practical realization in our hom ighborhoods, states, countrie: and the world. Again, I believe



the traditional

approach to leadership described earlier had

has expended whatever usefulne: and reached a “glass cei primarily women who must show the world how to break through into the age of maturity. The Writings state fundamentally that men can go no further without women achieving thei “highest possibilities.” Therefore, the pattern of conflict, suspicion, distrust nd fear that is prevalent in the world will quite likely remain until women, in fact, attain their “highest possibilities.”








The advancement of women

and race unity Let us now examine more specifically the relationship of the advancement of


women and racial unity. In The Promise of

World Peace, the Universal House of Justice identifies the elimination of racism and the equality of men and women as two elements that have “immediate relevance to establishing world peace. ...”

In its Three Year Plan, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States had two goals related to race. One goal called for Baha’i communities to become “models of racial unity”





This commentary by Tod Ewing, member of the Continental Board of Counselors, is adapted from a letter originally written for a women’s conference held during the Three Year Plan. Mr. Ewing expresses special thanks to Alison Ewing and Nancy Songer for their invaluable feedback and editing.

Unless otherwise noted, quotations are from:

  • Two Wings of a Bird:The Equality of

Women and Men.

  • The Advent of Divine Justice.
  • Toward Oneness.
  • Other material from the Baha’i

writings.




showed “a greater boldness’


A ‘greater boldness’


Cheryl Stull performs a dramatic monologue, The Passing of Exquisite Music, on the life of Martha Root—one of the women who, in the Master’s words,

in the work of the Faith—recently in Everett, Washington. One of the 50 in the audience enrolled in the Faith afterward.



and the other called communities to children and youth to be “the first generation free from all prejudices.” In the Four Year Plan, the National Spiritual Assembly added the advancement of women to these goals, thus creating twin themes to propel the American Baha’ community’s efforts to further the process of entry by troops.

It is important to note that in the larger society, when women’s issues have been brought to the forefront, it has had the effect of minimizing attention to racial issues. In other words, it seems to many that the women’s movement, particularly as related to white women, has often usurped and taken priority over the race issue and even exacerbated it further, and that people of influence and power have sometimes pitted the two against one another,

Nots h. This cannot happen and would be a distortion of the holistic intent of our Teachings. On the contrary, the issue of the advancement of all women is inextricably bound up with the elimination of racial prejudice and the achievement of racial unity.











The need for feminine qualities

The Writings tell us that women possess qualities that will help create a climate in which peace can emerge. There is no problem in our country that needs a different climate more than the one that surrounds issues related to racial prejudice. This matter is so sensitive and the atmosphere so charged with tension, hostility and emotional pain, that if the qualities that women possess are not brought to bear in changing that climate, the eventual outcome will be, in the words ascribed to ‘Abdu’l-Baha, “the destruction of America.” Specifically, ‘Abdu’l-Baha has stated








that woman is “sore tenderhearted, more receptive, her intuition more intense. ...” He further states that women should strive to,show that “their hearts are more tender and susceptible than the hearts of men, that they are more philanthropic and responsive towards the needy and suffering, that they are inflexibly opposed to war and are lovers of peace.” In another passage He refers to the strength of women as it relates to “mental alertness, intuition and the spiritual qualities of love and service. ...” He also says that “woman has greater moral courage than the man; she has also special gifts which enable her to govern in moments of danger and crisis.” (n the area of race relations we are in moments of danger and cri

‘Abdu’l-Baha also asserts that women have evinced a “greater boldness when enlisted in the ranks of the Faith.” Shoghi Effendi has further stated that this “boldness” must, in the course of time, “be more convincingly demonstrated, and win for the beloved Cause victories more stirring than any it has yet achieved.”

‘The aforementioned qualities associated with women are essential in establishng productive racial dialogue and creating environments where fairness and cooperation prevail. They are vital in creating the spirit of humility, self-sacrie and perseverance necessary if race unity is ever to be achieved. They are also critical to helping overcome any sense of superiority, deep suspicion and distrust that prevent the races from weaving bonds of genuine fellowship and love. Such qualities must permeate the whole area of race relations if this bonding is ever to occur.

Finally, the National — Spiritual Assembly, in a message to the Baha’i community, reminded us that America is “groaning, dying to come to unity, to end


is.















SEE EQUALITY, PAGE 8


June 24,1999 THE AMERICAN BanA’i * PROMOTING THE PRINCIPLES page 7 [Page 8]

As recent Los Angeles performances of a musical drama based on the life of Tahirih celebrated National Women’s History Month and brought the Baha'i principles of equality to many people of capacity.

The Tahirih Award for Service to Women was presented in conjunction with a March 6 performance of A Woman and Her Words: The Story of Tibirih by Muhtadia Rice and Parke McAlister.

The award honored the family of Amy Bichl, a Fulbright scholar who was murdered in South Africa while preparing citizens for that nation’s first-ever open elections.





Accepting the award on behalf of her late sister was Molly Biehl Corbin, who gave a moving speech about her family’s forgiveness of the killers and their decision to carry on the work Amy started. The family said they were determined to carry on in the spirit of Tahirih, a Pe: poetess and Babj martyr.

In addition to a letters of congratulations were read from South African President Nelson Mandela, and from the speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia, Mose Tjitendero, with whom Amy worked.

Dignitaries in attendance included state the consul-general of







EQUALITY, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7


eoeee



its age-old angui Furthermore, ‘Abdu’l-Bahaé, many years ago, asserted that the unity of the “white and the colored would be an assurance of the world’s peace.” It is clear, then, that we must as quickly as possible bring the “special gifts” of women to bear on this “most vital and challenging issue.”


An appeal to women’s cultural gifts

In addition to the qualities of women identified above, each brings from her respective background unique cultural gifts. African-American women have been doubly burdened, and so you are doubly blessed. The Writings refer to


the members of your race as the “pupil of

the eye,” “the fountains of light” through whom “the light of the spirit shineth forth.” Furthermore, they state, “God has richly endowed” you with “qualities of the heart” that are “much needed in the world today.” What a blessing, and what a responsibility! The impact you can and must have on our communities and in addressing this issue is tremendous.

Unique qualities of other cultural groups have also been identified in the Writings. Asians (termed in this passage as Oriental) are noted for your “reverence, self-sacrifice, unquestioning obedience and complete devotion to the Cause.”

‘To Latinos, you have been referred to as “gifted” and “s e tin=





ensitive,” “di: guished for (your) intelligence and religious nature” and for being “so spiritual and so enthusiastic.”

To Native Americans, your full embrace of the Faith, our Writings tell us, will cause you to “become so illumined as to enlighten the whole world. ...”

It was a white woman, with no particular experience in race issues, who was called upon by ‘Abdu’l-Bahé to organize the first race amity conference, which no doubt required a newly stirred boldness and courage on her part.

‘To the Iranian women, a special note of encouragement is in order. The House of Justice in its Ridvin 153 message urged the Iranian friends to “dedicate themselves, to an extent surpassing their past services, to the accomplishment of the goals of the Four Year Plan, under the leadership and guidance of the institu













tions of the Faith in North America.” The House of Justice then goes on to encourage the Iranian friends in a manner that also has implications for racial unity. It states, “The unity of thought and endeavor between the friends from East and West will offer a shining example of the power of Baha'u'llah to demolish traditional barriers and will be a powerful source of attraction to the Cause.”

The “leadership and guidance” of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States has clearly identified racial unity and the advancement of women as major themes of the plan as well as the need to “demolish traditional barriers” between the races i and out of the Baha’ community.

In addition, the House of Justice, in a letter to the Iranian believers throughout the world (154 B.E.), extols their response to the persecutions they have suffered and goes on to note the remarkable qualities they have displayed such detachment, reliance on God, heroism and certitude. The House also refers to the rekindled “spark of Faith the hearts” and how the Iranian friends became “oblivious of self’? and demonstrated an “aloofness and detachment from worldly goods. These qualiti are admirable and moving of themsel but because they have been demonstrated under duress, opposition and _persecution, they have particular relevance to the work of eliminating racial prejudi anda ing racial unity.

Women in general have already been described as, among other things, “tenderhearted” and strong in the “spiritual qualities of love and service. ... However, as Iranian women you hav also been victims of wanton bigotry, persecution and suffering. Your painful experiences offer you the ability to have unique empathy and understanding of the problems faced by racial minorities in this country. Your efforts to understand





























people of all racial backgrounds and particularly the black and white, can dramatically assist the American commu achieving its spiritual destiny.

To women of every background, please feel supported and encouraged to




South Africa; and a host of entertainers and civic leaders. Actors Tippi Hedren and Geoffrey Ewing served as emcees.

Counselor Wilma Ellis presented the award to Molly Biehl Corbin on behalf of the Baha'is.

The evening before, Rice and McAlister presented the stage performance at the Baha’i Center to an audience of 250, including a delegation of educators from the Culver City School District.

Both performances also served as fundraisers for the MONA (Multicultural Organization for Neighborhood Arts) Foundation, which serves at-risk local children. ®



oes



coos



embrace and cultivate all of the qualities our Writings clearly state you possess. Insist with boldness on the achievement of racial harmony, and “win for the beloved Cause victories more stirring than any it has yet achieved.”

Assist our communities to end the polarization and prejudice that can subtly and overtly divide them. Know that our inability to come to grips with this issue within the Baha’ community can, in the words of the beloved Guardian, have the npact of “insensibly retarding the flow of those quickening energies which can alone insure the vigorous and speedy development of God’s struggling Faith.” Know that our inability to address this issue in the nation as a whole, as ‘Abdu’l-Baha stated, “will cause enmity to increase day by day, and the final result will be hardship and may end bloodshed.”















The role of men

It must also be said that if the advancement of women is to occur without delay, as men we must, with the utmost humili. ty, willingness and sense of urgency, a and play our part. We need not feel anxious or in the least threatened by the advancement’ of women, nor think we will no longer have a significant place in








society. The Writings clarify roles for everyone in building society anew, bu this day the roles of men and women have

been redefined and we must all work to understand and operationalize this redefinition. The support we give women will help us in shaping our new role.

Let us “own” the issue of the equality of women and men, recognize the reality of the greatness that ‘Abdu’l-Bahai has conferred upon women, dutifully examine any attitudes of superiority on our part, and ensure that, far from being an impediment to the advancement of women, we are a source of support and encouragement. May our hearts embrace the following words of ‘Abdu’lwhen considering the unique role of women in our community:

“Blessed are ye, blessed are ye! Verily ye are worthy of every gift. Verily ye deserve to adorn your heads with the crown of everlasting glory because in sciences and arts, in virtues and perfections, ye shall become










eeeccccee


Muhtadia Rice acts a scene from her drama A Woman and Her Words, portraying Tahirih’s rejection of the riches offered for her

renunciation of faith in the Bab.

equal to men, and as regards tenderness of heart and abundance of mercy and sympathy,

ye are superior.”

Concluding thoughts

It is becoming increasingly evident that the advancement of women must play a much more significant role in our communities if we are to establish a “pattern of action” that will be a “shining example” and cause people to enter the Faith in “large numbers. ...” In that way we will create a healthy, loving and cooperative climate that nurtures growth and development—the same climate from which peace will emerge and the same climate that will help dissipate racial , prejudice and unify the races. As swiftly” ble, then, the qualities women must be fostered and allowed to significantly influence allareas of our community life!

It therefore falls upon all of us, women and men alike, to fulfill our respective roles regarding the advancement of women, to do so with boldness, dignity and wisdom, and to feel honored and compelled to play the part God has assigned us in this vital arena of service to humanity.

‘These are just a few personal thoughts and perspectives on these matters. I hope they will stimulate further study of the Writings as well as consultation, and most importantly, greater efforts to achieve racial unity and the equality of women and men. Allow me to close with the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bah:

“The handmaidens of the Merciful should seize the opportunities afforded in these days. Each one should strive to draw nigh unto the Divine Threshold and seek bounties from the Source of Existence. She should attain such a state and be confirmed with such a power as to make, with but the utter ance of one word, a lowly person to be beld in reverence, initiate him who is deprived into the world of the spirit, impart hope to the despondent, endow the portionless one with a share of the great bestowal, and confer knowledge and insight upon the ignorant and the blind, and alertness and vigilance on the indolent and heedless. This is the attribute of the handmaidens of the Merciful. This is the characteristic of the bondmaids of God’s Threshold.” ®

























Page.8, THE, AMERICAN BAHA‘s.2 PROMOTING THE PRINCIELES ., June 24,1999... [Page 9]











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Tne AMERICAN BAnA‘i ¢ BanA’l DisTRIBUTION SERVICE page 9 [Page 10]FELT PERE oe ¢

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[Page 11]






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June 24, 1999

Tre American BanA’i ¢ BanA’l DisraiBUTION SERVICE page II [Page 12]


Dancers form a “flower” at the Celebration of the Oneness of Humanity. Photo by Omobowale Ayorinde, Rochester, NY

Rochester artistically celebrates oneness

INFORMATION FROM BAHA'IS OF ROCHESTER

Mx than 800 people joined in ¢ Baha’f community’s second Celebration of the Oneness of Humanity, an evening of ethnic food, fellowship and performances Feb. 27 at the School of the Arts in Rochester, New York.

Performers were truly flowers from the garden of humanity: the ‘Trinidad and Tobago Steel Drum Band, a Ukrainian dance troupe, traditional Taiwanese dancers, a folk singer-songwriter, the Kingdom Bound Gospel Kids, a Baha’i youth

workshop, a group of developmentally disabled dancers and an African. drumming and dance group.

Between performances, readings on the unity of the human family from the traditions of Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam and the Baha’i Faith were presented. An interpreter was provided for hearing-impaired guests.

Masters of ceremony for the evening were Rochester Mayor Bill Johnson and local television host Charlotte Clark.

At a pre-performance buffet, the friends dished out ethnic


society.

~ Registration deadline is July 31.

). +


UN NGO conference promotes global view

Editor's note: The National

foods. Children were able to select their food from a special children’s section.

Round candlelighted tables were provided to encourage people who, may not have known each other to sit together at dinner.

After dinner, guests mingled, talked and wandered among the tables and displays. Many stopped to draw themselves onto a 30-foot mural of the human family, staffed by child volunteers handing out markers and encouragement.

As guests left they were given invitations to upcoming events. #

- Indiana visit brings visibility Fort Wayne friends invite author

ae by author/lawyer Layli Miller Bashir helped

in Fort Wayne, Indiana, make invaluable connections with like-minded souls in the area of equality of women and men.

Bashir, a lawyer and co-author of Do They Hear You When You Cry, told more than 200 people March 27 about the fight to help ‘Togo native Fauziya Kassindja win her asylum claim based on gender discrimination— as well as the warm friendship that developed between the two young women. She also spoke of how the effort led to formation of the Tahirih Justice Center, a nonprofit legal agency helping women around the world.

The Women’s Studies Department of Indiana Purdue University at Fort Wayne co-sponsored the on-campus event with the Baha’fs in honor of Women’s History Month.

‘The departments involvement helped bring in funds for travel expens om inside and outside the university, as well as room arrangements, contacts with women’s service clubs and incalculable help with publicity.

The Baha'is provided logistical support, hospitality, public information tasks and prayers.

Bashir’ lecture was part ofa whirlwind of activity that day: ¢ Philanthropist Mimi Rolland hosted a luncheon at

her home. She was delighted to learn the Baha’is in

Fort Wayne meet at the East Wayne Street Center,

a facility she and her husband founded to promote

literacy and education.

  • Anews conference was held at the childhood home

of the late Carole Lombard, a Baha’i who was one of Hollywood’s foremost comic actors in the 1930s.

  • More than 40 people attended an evening fireside

at the university rounded out with a’Persian dinner. A song written for that event by Adrienne Stengel of Lafayette told the story of Bashir and Kassindja’s quest. #










Choose PI representative wisely

From the National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of Public Information

media trust the Baha’is

¢ National Spiritual Assembly invites interested Baha’fs to attend the upcoming Annual United Nations Department of Public Information/Non-Governmental Organization Conference Sept. 15-17. This conference at U.N. Headquarters in New York City will examine the phenomenon of globalization and its impact on the peoples of the world. Members of the U.N. community, including SecretaryGeneral Kofi Annan, will address the conference, as well as academicians, the corporate sector and members of civil

Baha'is who wish to attend the conference must be registered by the National Spiritual Assembly through its United Nations Office in New York. Because the National Assembly may only register 20 participants, registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

While there is no registration fee, conference participants must arrange their own travel and accommodations. For more information on conference registration, contact the Baha’i US/UN Office, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017 (phone 212-803-2500, e-mail



‘Teaching Plan emphasizes the need for local communities to be ready to supply public information about the Faith. In fact, communicating about the Faith with society at large— including through news media—hbas always been important, because there are so many potential avenues to advance the teachings of Baba’u'lldb and increase respect for His Cause. This columm is intended to give practical answers to issues that Baha'i communities face frequently.

ur Local Spiritual Assembly

wants to appoint a public information representative. What kind of person should we consider? What are some qualifications that person should have?

The first thing we'd suggest is finding someone who wants the responsibility and is interested in working with communication media. In addition, the person should be comfortable talking

with city officials and with repre sentatives of other organizations. Look for someone who:

  • Can provide knowledgeable

and accurate _ information about the Baha’i Faith in everyday English, and understands the importance of avoiding Baha’i “jargon.”

  • Can convey information in

an interesting way—without inserting personal opinions!

¢ Is well-informed of current developments of the Faith, and willing to learn more.

take initiative.

  • Is comfortable speaking

in public.

  • Is able to approach communication media wisely and

deliberately, and to work systematically to cultivate relationships with editors, reporters etc.

  • Has the capacity to take on

this responsibility for the long term, as it sometimes takes years before local


enough and become interested enough in our stories to want to give us coverage.

  • Understands the need to

work on local issues only, and to report to the Local Spiritual Assembly.

In turn, the Assembly needs to have confidence that the person appointed has the capacity to be the spokesperson for the local Baha'i community, and understands that she or he is the face of the local Baha’i community and effectively defines the public image of the Faith.

‘This work is a labor of love. It can be exciting, very rewarding and extremely frustrating. When making your decision, we suggest you carefully consider the criteria above, so that the person you appointas public information representative will portray the Baha’t Faith to the public with accuracy, knowledge and wisdom. #


page 12

THe AMERICAN BanA’i * News

June 24, 1999 [Page 13]

TT


ATIN* AMERICAN?’ TEA CHING




Letter to the friends

from the Latin-American Task Force

Dear and Esteemed Friends

in the Cause of Baha'u'llah:

‘To all the dear friends who have responded to our census, a million heartfelt thanks. It has been impossible for us to thank each one individually. Nevertheless, your desire to be counted symbolizes for us your desire to serve actively. We are still receiving forms and at times the friends send us their data by e-mail. Fabulous—thank you again!

‘There remains little time to us before the Four Year Plan reaches its end. The words of loving optimism sent to the Baha’is of the world by our beloved Universal House of Justice and reflected in the Ridvin message which our dear National Spiritual Assembly has sent to us, point beyond doubt to the transcendence of the present moment and the urgency of the task at hand:

“Although the Baha’i community has distinguished itself rac ty, all minorities are proportionately underrepresented in the active core of the Baha’{ family when compared to the population at large. We must do more to reach out to and embrace our brothers and sisters of every color. Uniting the diversity of humankind is the mission of our community, ly tied to the flow of spiritual blessings on which the progress of the Faith itself depends.”

For some time now you and we alike have been embarked on the great task of “building bridges” between the Baha’i community and the Latino population in the United States. On all sides we note enthusiasm and activ


















ity. We still have not achieved great

victories in statistical terms, but we have been preparing the ground, which is essential for an abundant harvest.

Inability to speak Spanish is often cited by the friends as the primary obstacle that impedes any initiative i this direction, and which leads evitably to the failure on occasion of the efforts of consolidation among







Latinos. Unfortunately our enthusi asm for teaching often overbalanc: our need to make a reasonable evaluation of the resources available within the community.

That an individual who spea Spanish should teach another individual who knows little or no English, is not the same as having a community in which there are no bilingual friends undertake the task of wishing to teach an entire community of Latinos in which nobody speaks English! It would perhaps be wise to study the situation of both communities before undertaking any activity. In other words: What are our resources? Who is available to carry out the delicate labor of consol dation?

Even more important is to dispel the belief that we Latinos speak only Spanish: according to the United States Census, the majority of us speak English, some with a preference for Spanish. What happens is that at times our conception of who Latinos are does not include the professional class nor the highly educated people prominent in the community.

This means that as a preparatory measure for entry by troops of Latino friends, among whom there will undoubtedly be many who will not know English but will need to be consolidated, the Baha’f communities which are predominantly Englishspeaking must focus first on seeking the bilingual Latinos who will be their best resources for the consolidation of the future masses. If your community Spanish-speaking in the consolidation effort, go forward! We must be wise, dear friends, in the utilization of our present resources in looking to the formation of human resources for the future which is at our door.

May Baha’u’llah bless us all and bless our efforts in His Cause.













Lovingly, the Latin-American ‘Task Force #



ee ecccccccccs





. . . . . . . .


Carta a los amigos de

la Comision de Trabajo Latinoamericana

Queridos y Estimados Amigos

en la Causa de Baha’u’llah

A todos los queridos amigos que han respondido a nuestro censo, un millén. de gracias de todo coraz6n. Nos ha sido imposible agradecer a cada uno individualmente, sin embargo, su deseo de ser contados simboliza para nosotros su deseo de servir activamente. Aun estando formularios y a veces los amigos nos envian sus datos a través del e-mail. ;Fabuloso, gracias de nuevo!

Nos queda poco tiempo para que Ilegue a su fin el Plan de los Cuatro Atos. Las palabras de amoroso optimismo enviadas alos baha’is del mundo por nuestra amada Casa Universal de Justicia y reflejadas en el mensaje de Ridvin que nos enviara nuestra querida Asamblea Espiritual Nacional, apuntan indudablemente a Ia trascendencia del momento presente y a la urgencia de la tarea entre manos:

“Aunque la comunidad Baha’i se ha distinguido por su unidad racial, todas las minorias estén proporcionalmente sub representadas en el nicleo activo de la familia Baha'i en comparacién con la poblacién en general. Tenemos que hacer aun més para atraer y abrazar a nuestros hermanos y hermanas de todos los colores. La misién de nuestra comunidad es la de unir la diversidad de la humanidad, y esta directamente ligada al flujo de las bendiciones espirituales de las cuales depende el progreso mismo de la Fe.” (Mensaje de Ridvan 1999 Asamblea Espiritual Nacional de los FE.UU., p. 3).

Hace algin tiempo que venimos embarcados tanto ustedes como nosotros en la magna tarea de “construir puentes” entre la comunidad baha’i y la poblacién latina en los Estados Unidos. Por todas partes se nota el entusiasmo y la actividad. Aun no hemos logrado grandes victorias en términos estadisticos, pero hemos estado preparando el terreno lo cual es esencial para una cosecha abundante.

El no hablar espaol es citado a menudo por los amigos como el obstaiculo principal que les impide cualquier iniciativa en esta direccién, y que conduce inevitablemente a que fall












en a veces los esfuerzos de consolidacién entre los latinos. Desafortunadamente nuestro entusiasmo por ensefiar, a menudo sobrepasa la necesidad de una razonable evaluacién de los recursos disponibles dentro de la comunidad.

No es lo mismo que un individuo que sabe espafiol ensefie a otro individuo que no sabe mucho 0 nada de inglés, a que una comunidad en donde no hay amigos bilingiies emprenda la tarea de querer ensefiar a toda una comunidad de latinos en donde nadie habla inglés! Quizas sea saludable estudiar la situacién de ambas comunidades antes de emprender cualquier actividad. En otras palabras: écuales son nuestros recursos: quien 0 ienes estin disponibles para llevar a cabo la delicada labor de consolidacién?

Aun mas importante es disipar la creencia de que los latinos solamente hablamos espaiiol: segtin el Censo de los Estados Unidos, la mayorfa hablamos inglés algunos con preferencia al espafiol. Lo que sucede es que a veces nuestra concepcién de quienes son los latinos no abarca a la clase profesional ni a las personas altamente educadas de prominencia en la comunidad.

Esto significa que como una medida preparatoria a la entrada en tropas de amigos latinos de entre los cuales habra ndudablemente muchos quienes no sabrin inglés pero que requeririn ser consolidados, las comunidades Baha’is predominantemente de habla inglesa, deberian enfocarse en buscar primero a los latinos bilingiies quienes seran sus mejores recursos para la consolidacién de Jas masas futuras. Si su comunidad cuenta con suficientes recursos de habla hispana para tener éxito en la labor de consolidacién, jadelante! Hay que ser sabios, queridos amigos, en la utilizaci6n de los recursos actuales con miras a la formaci6n de recursos humanos para el futuro que esta a las puertas.

Que Baha'u'llah nos bendiga a todos y bendiga nuestros esfuerzos en Su Causa.

Carifiosamente, La Comision de Trabajo Latinoamericana @











Baha'i presence at Town Meeting emphasizes spiritual side of development

1 message of unity in the National Spiritual Assembly's exhibit drew enthusiasm from participants at the National Town Meeting for a Sustainable America, May 2-5 in Detroit, Michigan. Tn a cavernous hall containing more than 300 educational, informational and technical displays, the Baha’i exhibit was the only one emphasizing the spiritual aspects of sustainable development.

“Yes! I believe that!” was often heard from people viewing the exhibit, which emphasized that the oneness of humanity must be accepted as a spiritual principle. “Our social, economic and _ ecological well-being depend upon the realization of this principle,” the exhibit text explained. ers-by collected more than 1,000 pieces of i literature on development



More than 3,500 people attended the National ‘Town Meeting in Detroit, including leaders from government, business and civil society. At the same time, affiliated events in 46 states drew 60,000 more people.

Sponsored by the President’s Council on Sustainable Development, the meeting publicized the need for an integrated approach to development that considers all social, environmental and economic factors.

Several Baha'is participated in the event. Peter Adriance, NGO Liaison for the National Spiritual Assembly and a member of the national conference plan ing committee, hosted the Baha’{ exhil

‘Two other Baha’is were part of the program as professionals:

  • June Thon ssor of urban and regional

planning at Michigan State University, was a speak







and exhibitor.

¢ Ramin Abrishamian, chief executive of Living ‘Technologies Inc., displayed his company’s system of plants and other life forms used to treat municipal and industrial waste water.

Many Detroit-area Baha'is enjoyed the exhibit hall and participated in an interactive project called “Box City,” where they built a Baha’i Center as part of a model “sustainable city” made from cardboard boxes ina large room.

The Web site created for the National Town Meeting (www.sustainableusa.com) conta information about the Town Meeting sessions, plus a “tour” that includes the Baha’ exhibit. It invites individuals to help reach the goal of garnering 2,000 commitments toward achieving “sustainable” America. @ *






June 24, 1999

Tue AMERICAN Bana’ Larix AMERICAN TEACHING/NEWS

page. 13 [Page 14]


‘ONSOLIDATING the VICTORIES



Centennial pays tribute to early heroes in West


BY LINDA LEEB DUPER

B n the San Francisco Bay Area paid a debt of gratitude to the past and achieved a spirit that will carry them far into the future as they celebrated the Faith’s 100 years in the Western States.

iritual Assemblies of Oakland, ‘and Berkeley, Californi co-sponsored the weekend-long ol vance April 30-May 2 at locations throughout the





San Fran




western United States. ind is considered the “


Helen Goodall, of a prominent East Bay family involved in the shipping business.

Her daughter, Ella Goodall Cooper, was among the first North American Baha’i pilgrims to the Holy Land in 1899. The trip confirmed the fledgling community and paved the way for “Abdu’l-Bal historic visit to Oakland and San Francisco in 1912.

fhe centennial celebration began

Friday with a dessert social attended by about 70. The evening was both f¢ with poetry by Ijeoma Thomas, music by Ron and Carol Lyles, and drums by Michael Ingram—and reverent.

“Te very special evening,” Ron Lyles said. “The love and unity and joy

thes Tt was truly a celebration












Special tributes were made to Robert

‘Splendors’ conference eyes America’s destiny

Nes 'I-Bahd, in one of His many Jescriptions of the favorable conditions for rapid growth of the Faith in North America, referred to this continent as the “home of the righteous, and the gathering place of the free” wherein “the splendors of His light shall be revealed, where the mysteries of His Faith shall be unveiled.”

“Revealing the Splendors of His Light: Exploring Spirituality in Baha’f Life”—an Institute for Baha’i Studies conference Aug. 7-8in ston, Illinois—will consider the role of 5] ity, individually and collectively, in fulfilling the destiny of America.

Presentations on this theme will pay particular attention to the ways in which spiri: tuality effects social ge, as the Universal House of Justice stated in its Ridvin B.E. 155 message, through “the










power of the Covenant, the dynamics of prayer, the inspiration and education derived from regular reading and study of the Holy

‘Texts, and the transformative te upon [one’s] soul as es to behave in accordance with the divine laws and prin

See page 55 for more information and a registration form.






Cynthia Barnes-Slater (left) and Cindy Haines, both of Oakland, California, and members of the Centennial planning committee, display photos of early San Francisco Bay Area Baha’is Robert Turner and Kanichi Yamamoto, who were specially honored at the Western States Centennial celebrations.

‘Turner, the first African-American believer, and Kanich: amoto, the first Japanese Bah The tributes were presented by Charleen Maghzi and Derek Cockshut, members of the Regional Bah Council of the Western State:

Saturday morning and afternoon provided an opportunity to delve into the history of the Baha'i Faith in the Bay Area in more detail with a lively and informative four-city historical tour. The tour







featured a stop at Cypress Lawn cemetery

to the



in Colma for a special visi Goodall, Hearst and Turner

“T was very moved at Robert grave,” said Margaret Hoag, a descendant of another fc ing mother of the Faith in the West, > Hoag.

The tour continued to San Francisco, with a stop at Lloyd Lake in Golden Gate Park, a favorite spot of “‘Abdu’l-B during His visit. It went on to Berkeley and Old Town Oakland, with a look at the Jackson Street site of the Goodall home, which no longer


‘mos







Vietnamese friends plan outreach


Vietnamese Baha’is in Central California made March 6 a joyous occasion to plan teaching and consolidation work. A full-page ad for the Baha’i Faith has been placed in the only Vietnamese yellow pages in the area, and ads have appeared in the Viet Mercury and the Viet Nam Thoi Bao, two area Vietnamese newspapers. Pictured are (from left) Cyrus Parvini, a U.S. Baha’i

Refugee Office helper; Tru Chang, Simin Parvi Chang, Sylvie Nguyen, J.P. (a grandchild of the Nguyens), Sau Nguyen and Phouc Banh. For more information about the work of the Refugee Office, Photo courtesy of U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office

please call 847-733-3525.



, Quyen Nhan Banh, Huong



stands but has been commemorated by the Oakland Baha’is with a memorial bench.

he tour was led by Oakland City and Local Spiritual Assembly member Cindy Haines, who exhibited her detailed understanding of local and Baha'i history. A banner bear





ing the words “Baha’i Faith: 100 Years in the West” was fastened to the bus. The celebration culminated that



evening with a gala dinner dance in historic Jack London Sq land. a ceful pavilion at the water's


an and author.

After a moving roll call and slide show of early believers by Dick Groger and a presentation of Polynesian dance by local youth, the band struck up and dancing began.

The centennial observance ended ona reverential note with a special devotional gathering Sunday morning at the Oakland Rose Garden, in honor of all early Baha’is who created ed today’s burgeoning Bay ommunity. ekend has been worth every nt, every ounce of effort,” aines said. “We are told that the

ssed souls of those who have gone on world are always ready to . and this weekend_really drove tha at point home for me. I know they were there every moment.”

Visit the — Education and Schools Office’s new Web site!

ee into” the Administrative

(www.usbne.org) and Departments.” (You'll need your Bab ID number to log in.) ¢ Get the latest information on summer school schedules for the regional and permanent schools. e

  • Download the annual theme docuip in the World

The Role of the Community in Advancing the Process of Entry by Troops.”












U.S. Bah Web Site click on “NSA








  • See a preview of the Special

Edition of Brilliant Star.

  • ¢ Learn more about the Core

Curriculum programs.

  • Get and share ideas about

curriculum development and


  • Find out about the new Scouting

Program. @


page 14... THe AmeRIcAN BanA‘i * CONSOLIDATING THE’ VICTORIES

June 24, 1999 [Page 15]

ET ET ay

Tere

School programs support community development


s the National Teaching Plan draws the American. Baha'i community closer to entry by troops, come

xplore “Citizenship in the World Order of

Baha’u'llah” at Green Acre this summer.

Several other weeklong programs will feature sessions for youth ages 15 and up. The themes for these special youth classes will include race unity, building community, and

working together to promote love and unity.

Meanwhile, Picnics on the Piscataqua will be held Aug. 1 and Sept. 5, after a kickoff of the series July 4 with the annual raising of the Peace Flag and gospel music by

Artists-in-Residence Van Gilmer and Family. Summer programs include:


© July 24-28: “Investigate Reality” with Ronald ‘Tomanio and Diane Iverson. This series of spiritual exercises will offer insight into how to improve our

relationships with each other and the

Also offered that week will be “Mass Conversion: A Modest Proposal” presented by author/lecturer Gary

Matthews. Among topics will be how we learned how to generate inqui

convert those inquiri





s in great numbers, into declarations in such a way

consecrated in the Faith.

Rocket Science!

through Diversity,”

that new believers become truly

° July 30-Aug.4: “It Is Not Demystifying Training Institutes” with Bob Harris; “Wings for the Spirit: Music in the Baba't Community” presented by Martha Yazhari; and “Building Vibrant Communities with Janet and Rodney Richards and Barbara

Harris. Special classes for youth

ages 15 and older.

institutions.

may, having

Our Personal, Fi

  • Aug. 6-11: “Mystic Medicine: Health and Healing in

a New World Order” with physician Babak Etemad, an examination of the teachings of Bahd’u'llih as they relate to health and healing; and “Unlocking the Power for Action” with Eugene Andrews, on how individuals and institutions can work together to advance the process of entry by troops.

° Aug. 13-18: “The Transformative Power of Love in ‘amily and Community Lives,” co-facilitated by Linda Meccouri and John Woodall. The week’s ses


sion will explore the various facets of love and how we can enhance its healing and redemptive power in our lives. Special sessions for youth 15 and older.

  • Aug. 13-18: Core Curriculum

Teacher Training for Spiritual Education of Children. This 32-hour training session explores the spiritual reality of the child, the station of the teacher, the “child-development-centered community” and the first sections of the curriculum for ages 6-12.

Future sessions include:

  • Aug. 20-25: “Pathways to the Lesser Peace” with

Stephen Karnik and “Greater Boldness: Seeking True Equality in the Baba’t Community” presented by Sophie and Corey ‘Tamas.

© Aug. 27-29: “Managing with the Wisdom of Love: Applying Baba’i Principles to Business” with author/consultant Dorothy Marcic.

  • ° Sept. 3-6: “Press on to Meet the Dawn” with William.

and Connie Davis.

Summer schools continue in every region of the country



itizenship in the World Order of sBaha’u'llah: the Role of the ommunity in Advancing the Process of "Entry by Troops” is the general theme of ae year’s regional summer schools, pre"sented in a curriculum outline produced ¢ Education and Schools Office.

We are happy to provide electronic copies of the materials to interested people. Please e-mail your request to



\ ; ied iat ei ;a list of regional school sessions

Day weekend.

NORTHEASTERN STATES New York “Sotomon R.G. Hivron,” Aus. 13-23 Program: Advancing the Process of Entry by’ Troops. , Location: Poughkeepsie, NY Facilities: Classroom setting. Semi-private dorm rooms (bi hall. Gym, tennis, hiking available. Fees: Adult about $50/day, Child about $36/day. School Committee at P.O. Box 355, Lincolndale, NY 10540 (phone 914-248-5963, e-mail ) has rates. Registrar: Phil Cabot, P.O. Box 122, Norwood, NJ 07648 (phone 201-767-5806, email ). 10% late fee after July 17; 15% after July 31.



ng towels and linens); dining


SOUTHERN STATES Kentucky, Serr. 3-6 Build Community with Unity. aubush, KY Facilities: Large and small m Rooms for 14 or cabins w/bunks; meals on site. Swimming, court sports, hiking, boat rides. ly $35). Meals per ath $17.75, Child $8.88, Infant free. Lodging per night: Adult $6 in cabin or $30 in room, Youth $6 in cabin or $19 in room, Pre-youth/Child/ Infant free with two paying adults. Registrar: Floyd Donley, Gilbertsville, KY 42044 (phone 502-362-4228, cmail \. Pre-register by Aug. 26. Maxvtano “Darsprinc,” Juty 29-Auc. 1 Program: The Role of Community i



1g rooms.




Advancing the Process of Entry by Troops. Location: Frostburg, MD Facilities: Classroom setting. Sign language

interpreter may be provided if need is identified. Campus housing and meals. Swimming, game room, gym.

Fees: Family $450, Adult double occupancy $170 (single occupancy $200), Youth $140, Child $130 (sleeping on floor $80), Infant free. Discount if you lodge off campus.


Registrar: Rob Chalmers, Laurel, MD 20707 (phone 301-725-5604, fax 301-725-0464, email »

Web: www.beca.org/orgs/schools/dayspring ‘Tennessee Band’ Institute, Sept. 3-6


Program: Entry by Troops: The Role of the Community. Location: Monteagle, TN Fees: Ask registrar. Registrar: Kaihan Strain,

Hixson, TN 37343 (phone 423842-1750). Pre-register by Aug. 15. Texas North, Aus. 5-8 Program: Covenant of Baha’ include National Spiritual Assembly member Jack McCants and Ahang Rabbani. Youth and children’s programs. Location: Bruceville, TX Facilities: Family camp facility. Swimming, outdoor recreation. Fees: Per day: Family of 4 $110, Adult $45, Youth $35. Information: Phone 972-780-1667, e-mail




speakers to




Virginia “HEMLOCK Haven,” Juty 9-11

Location: Hungry Mother State Park, VA Registrar: Sarah Jane Lee, P.O. Box 2156, Lebanon, VA 24266 (phone 540-889-0445). ‘VIRGINIA “MASSANETTA SPRINGS,” AUG. 27-29

Program: Kindling a Fire that will Set flame the World: Developing the Spiritual Champion Within. With Counselor Tod Ewing, Ken Bowers.

Location: Harrisonburg, VA

Facili



ies: Camping or semi-private room



« style dining. Outdoor sports, hiking. Registrar: Darren and Ruth Clements (phone 804296-5238, e-mail ).

Discount for pre-registering before July 15.

CENTRAL STATES Moewesova “Wine Sears Grear Norm Wooos,” Aus. | Program: The Role of the Comun’ Advancing the Process of Entry by With Derek Cockshut and others.



Location: Onamia, MN Facilities: Classroom setting. Semi-private


rooms, meals on


c. Swimming, playground, team sports, trails, canocing. Fees: Adult $160, Youth $125, Pre-Youth $95, Child $60, Infant $20. Day rates available. Registrar: Ali Mahabadi,

Plymouth, MN 55441 (phone 612557-6039). Pre-register by July 15. Neraska “Great Puains,” Juty 29-Aus. 1 Program: Community Inspiration and Action. With Jilla Please bring copies of The Seven Valleys and

immons and David Simmons.

long Obligatory Prayer. Location: Peru, NE Facilities: C


room setting. Dorm rooms (bring towelsinens), cafeteria (fee), court sports, wooded grounds Fees: Adult/Youth (1114) $92.70, ¢ under) $73.20 with bed or $49.20 in sleeping bag, Infant $15. Day rates available. Registrar: Colin Taylor,

North Platte, NE 69101-4514 (phone 308534-4939, e-mail ). Pre-register by June 29; late registration fee $5 per person or $10 per family.

Wisconsin “Marian Srerres,” Juvy 19-23

Location: Brownsville, WI





Double rooms; dining hall. Hiking, crafts, swimming.

Registrar: Lisa Riemer,

West Bend, WI 53095 (phone 414-338-3023, e-mail LS

WESTERN STATES Montana “Jonn H. Witcorr,” Juty 25-30 Program: Role of the Community in Advan‘Troops. With




cing the Process of

Pierre-Yves Mocqu: atherine Williams.

Location: near Livingston, MI



2 A-frame meeting hall. Rustic cab hot showers; dining room. Swimming,



horseback riding, hiking. Fees: Adult (18+) $145, Youth/Child (7-17) $120, Child (4-6) $85, Infant $10. Day rates available. Registrar: Sandi Marisdotter,

Helena, MT 59601 (phone 406-442-7526, email ). PreJuly 9.

New Mexico “Four Corners,” Jury 28—-Aus. | Program: ‘The Role of the Community in Advancing the Process of Entry by Troops.




ster by


Location: Vanderwagen, NM

Facilities: Indoor or outdoor classes. Dormstyle bunkrooms, tent/RV sites; dining hall. Playground, volleyball, basketball, hiking. Fees: Adult (19+) $65, Youth (15-18) $55, Pre-Youth (11-14) $40, Child (7-10) $25, (3-6) $20, Infant free. Day rates available. Registrar: Bill Bright,

Gallup, NM 87301 (phone 505-722-0039). Pre-register by July 19.

‘Onecon East, Aus. 14-16

Location: Suttle Lake, OR

Facilities: Church camp in Cascade Mountains. Canoeing, swimming, hiking, fish


ing, archery, volleyball. Fees: For cabins: Adult $100, Youth (13-17) $85, Child (6-12) $75, (5-under) $50. Lodge w/indoor bath higher; day rates available. Registrar: Dan Lincoln,

Lyons, OR 97358 (phone 503-859-2390, e-mail ). OneGon West “Carmet,” Jury 31—Aus. 4 Program: The Role of the Community in the Four Year Plan. Location: Fast of Portland, OR Facilities: Retreat site; dorm-style cabins. Fees: Adult $110, Youth $90, Child $70,

Family $330. Registrar: Sue Koos (phone 503-829-8423, email )

OREGON West “Bapasnr,” Aus. 11-15 Program: The Role of the Commu: Four Year Plan.


ty in the

Location: 40 miles west of Roseburg, OR Facilities: Church camp cabins, tent and RV spaces.

Fees: Adult $110, Youth $90, Child $70, Family $330.

Registrar: Jim Smith (phone 541-259-1417, email ).

Western WASHINGTON, AUG. 15-20

Program: Citizenship in the World Order of Baha'u'llth: Creating and Cultivating a Community. ston, WA jes: Classroom set


nily or dorm-style


Location: Fa



ng. Dorm-style


lodging, family meals. Indoor and outdoor recreation, lakes nearby. Fees: Adult $160, Youth $150, Pre-youth $100, Child $55, Infant $10. Registrar: Barbara Moses,

Woodinville, WA 98072-8465 (phone 425 488-2673, e-mail o



June 24, 1999

Tue AMERICAN BAHA‘i * CONSOLIDATING THE VICTORIES page IS [Page 16]ET TT Te eT er


WilmetteInstitute

Three levels of study ¢ Wilmette Institute is inaugurating a three-level learning plan to make future courses accessible to an increasingly wide range of people. ¢ The introductory level is designed for learners who want to focus on becoming better teachers of the Baha'i Faith without having to complete the requirements of a university-level course.

¢ The intermediate level is designed for learners who want to be challenged to study more deeply, at the level of a third- or fourth-year undergraduate university course.

  • The advanced level is designed

for learners who want to study deeply and rigorously. Designed at the level of a graduate course, it will involve completing a substantive written project.

Those who wish to pursue college credit for a course may find that the new levels facilitate the process. Those who have no interest in credit will be able to select a level to suit their needs.

Still room for students

‘There is still room for more students to attend the summer session of the Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization program. The program begins Saturday afternoon, July 17, and ends Friday night, Aug. 6. ‘This year’s program features classes in establishment of world peace, creation of a global economic system, the relationship of science and religion, environmental issues, agriculture, Baha'i history and Baha’i scriptural texts relating to social issues. Faculty include Dr. David Ruhe, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, Dr. Farhad Sabetan, Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi, Dr. Richard ‘Thomas and Dr. Jena Khodadad.

‘Tuition is $825; dormitory accomodation and meals are extra. If interested in attending, contact Heather Gorman, Wilmette Institute registrar.

Registration is also open for two separate distance-learning courses that do not require any residential stay in Wilmette. Either may be taken on an introductory level:

  • The Revelation of Baha’u’llah,

1863-68, is a six-month course starting July 1; it will cost $225. The course is independent of the earlier course on Baha’u'llah’s 1853-63 writings; the four courses on Baha’u’llih’s revelation may be taken in any order.

  • Christianity for Deepening and

Dialogue will begin Sept. 1; the twomonth course will cost $100.




For REGISTRATION AND INFORMATION

  • You may use the automated telephone line (847-733-3595) or call

the registrar (847-733-3415).

  • Information is on the Internet

(www.usbnc.org/wilmette). @





Rising attendance shows desire to advance

“The Cause of Baha’u’llah marches on resistlessly, quickened by the increasing application of an approach to the development and use of human resources that is systematic. The further creation of national and regional training institutes has pressed this development forward. —Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 156


ne of the central goals given by the

Universal House of Justice during the Four Year Plan is the development of an increasingly systematic approach to spiritual education in the Baha’i community.

The Universal House of Justice has emphasized repeatedly that advancing the process of entry by troops requires the further development of training institut






One tangible evidence of the community’s support for this crit ical goal of the Four Year Plan is the rising attend; at Louhelen Baha'i School. In increasing numbers people are aris attend Louhelen








ing a growing unde commitment to, the

tanding of, and nportance of sysion.

ter educ:


ic spirit





Louhelen attendance data for the past several y illustrate this development. ‘Total full-time atten


dance at ses in the


ions has grown 34 percent ast four years, and the total number of people attending Louhelen for at least a day (head count) has increased 26 percent.


This demonstrates the spreading influence of the teachings of Baha’u'llih, as more and more people come to Louhelen to experience Baha’ commu







Jeff Jones from Canada sings during a recent “Teaching and the Arts” session at Louhelen Baha’i School. Louhelen regularly schedules programs highlighting the

importance of arts in teaching and the

spiritual life. Photo by Jim Cheek





Wwwiouhelenorg

LOUHELEN Total Total ATTENDANCE | full-time head RISES attendance count 1995-96 10,477 15,442 1996-97 12,445 16,303 1997-98 12,761 16,989 1998-99 14,069 19,422




nity life, hospitality and service; deepen in the teachings of the Faith; and strive to learn to “live the life” more completely. This is the systematic development



of hum n resources in action: in be a part of this exciting pro


Council brings together musical ‘summit meeting’

Bp of your favorite Baha'i composers, musicians and choir directors. hances are that at least some were Bosch Baha'i School May 1-9.

‘ric Dozier, Van and Sean Gilmer, Red and Kathy Grammer, Tom Price, Dash Crofts, John Barnes, Louie Shelton, Lucie Dube, Brian Whitcomb, Parker McGee and Christina Quinn were the artists who came to work together in the inspirational and spiritually vitalizing environment at Bosch, pooling their talent and idea: ation of mu



at






in the cre



‘Twenty-four of the new songs from this session will be produced and released in the near future. The incredible process of creativity was videotaped for a future Baha'i Newsreel.

‘This gathering, a first of its kind, was sponsored by the Regional Baha’i Council for the Western States. The great outpouring of music for the World Congress was an inspiration to the Baha’ community and an effective means of attracting the hearts to F h. The creative power unleashed during this musical “summit” could well have the same effect. It an outstanding example of the leadership provided by














Baha'i School

(BOO ‘omstock Fane Santa Cruz, CA 95060

831-423. 3387



cess. Attend a Louhelen session this summer. # ° July 10-15: “Spiritualizing

Community Life” will feature Dr. Dan Popov and Linda Kavelin Popov, cre ators of the award-winning Virtues Project. At the same time will be “Youth Issues: Teaching Oneness,” with Justin Yuille, Jennifer Day and Ben Marx. They will focus on looking to the Baha’ ith for solutions to gender and race inequality.

° Aug. 7-12: “Preparation for Marriage and Family Life”






ses



our newest institution in developing human resource:


Development of arts in our communities is the focus of the Summer Family Ses 6, “Awakening the Arts,” Aug. 28—Sept. 1 at Bosch. A fun way to close the summer, this dynamic session will focus on storytelling, movement and visual arts way to revitalize teaching and spiritualize Feasts and deepenings.

Invigorating hands-on wor provide participants with the need to use the arts to create interest in their communities.

Other outstanding F be offered this summer:






a



sions will


nily §

sion of great importance. In spite of Baha’w’llah’s strong coun i divorce, the rate of divorce among as high as among the general public. How do we apply the available guidance in our lives? For people ages 20-30, the program will be presented by Dr. Rabi Musa, Auxiliary Board) members Marsha Gilpatrick and Farhad Sabetan, James and Joannie Yuille and marriage/family counselor Nahid Azad.

Our summer programs are filling quickly, so call or e-mail if you would like to spend time in the beauty of the redwoods, enjoy delicious food, loving service from the Bosch staff, and feel rejuvenated physically and spiritually. #







page 16 THE AMERICAN BaAnA’i ¢ ConsOLIDATING THE VICTORIES

June 24, 1999 [Page 17]

RIDVAN 1999

PANTO


ANNUAL REPORT


of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of the United States


1998-1999 MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

(in alphabetical order)

Juana C. Conrad

Assistant Secretary William E. Davis ‘Treasurer

Robert C. Henderson Secretary-General

Firuz Kazemzadeh Secretary for External Affairs

Patricia Locke Jack McCants Dorothy W. Nelson

Vice-Chairman

James F. Nelson Chairman

William Roberts


INSIDE THE ANNUAL REPORT

@ REPORT OF THE

NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY External Affairs ¢ page 19 ‘Treasury * page 22 Huqtiqu’llih ¢ page 24 Women’s Affairs * page 25

REPORTS OF THE AGENCIES OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

Secretariat * page 26 Teaching * page 28 Education * page 33 Properties * page 37 Publishing * page 38 Services * page 39 Social and Economic Development ¢ page 41

REPORTS OF THE REGIONAL BAHA'I COUNCILS

Central States * page 42 Northeastern States * page 44 Southern States * page 45 Western States * page 46

RIDVAN LETTER OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY

he fast approaching start of a new millen: ed the versal House of Justice to reiterate Baha’u'llah’s assurances that “World Peace, a hallmark of the emerging zation, will be realized as a tangi ion of the principle of the oneness of humankind. ...” “Such a peace,” it added, “will result from the culmination of two distinct but simul! neous and mutually reinforcing processes: one leading to the spiritual unity of the human race ... and the other to the political unity of the nations. . ‘The Supreme Body explained that the spiritual conquest of the planet “is directly related to the efforts of the Baha’i_ community in promoting the pivotal principles of their Faith.”

The House of Justice stated that our hopes of moving forward could be realized by concentrating on “the major aim of the Divine Plan at its current that is to effect a significant advanc the process of entry by troops.” The requirement of the moment is to build the B system and bring about

“marked progress in the activity and development of the individual believer, of the institutions, and of the local comrent and patient efforts on these fronts will be rewarded with ings and. confirmate the rel of ” that will, in turn, bring about the Baha'i community’s growth

nd “change the direction of human throughout the plane

At the outset of the Four Year Plan’s final year we pause to assess our progress and prepare ourselves to answer the challenge of the new millennium by responding to the call of the masses for righteousness, justice, and spiritual love with a fresh demonstration of Baha’u’llih’s spiritual

NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN


































The national teaching plan has been designed to help us exploit systematically “opportunities for the advancement of the process of entry by troops, the like of which presently exist in no other place on earth.” The plan’s foundation is an ongoing systematic analysis of patterns of spiritual hunger and search within the national population. This. study reveals that tens of millions of Americans are actively secking spiritual truth. The plan’s strategic aim is to foster interlocking and mutually reinforcing activities at the national, regional, and local levels to unite the friends in a










single campaign of action. Its method of operation is to broadcast, on stations frequently viewed by our target audience, carefully crafted and tested video ges designed to stimulate a posinultaneously, on the regional and local levels efforts are ongoing to train and educate the friends through local and regional institutes and schools; to promote patterns of community life and activity that will attract and sustain the interest of seekand to coordinate a diverse array of spiritual assembly development, teachand proclamation activitie Since the pilot-test phase of the media plan began last March, more than twelve thousand seekers have led our 800 number and another ten. thousand non-Bah have searched the Bah: Although our efforts to contact the callers reached only slightly more than half, newly installed telephone call relay systems and training will improve local followup. Tens of thousands of seekers have attended teaching events sponsored by approximately 80 percent of Baha’i communities that carried out plans supporting the campaign. Most

the growing number of jated up plans and members in telephone protocol, such as those you have seen on the most recent Baha'i New: s of non-Bah tigating the h indicate that 47 percent of them first heard of the ith through the media. They identify themselves as seekers of spiritual truth who are not satisfied with their current They are the receptive souls for whom we are searching. and analysis of what those who are ng the Bahai want from religion has been helpful in setting the agenda for training and developing the Baha’{ community, its tutions, and its members. Our speech must be understandable by all, free of parochial language. Findings point clearly to Shoghi Effendi’s admonition that people “crave love, not an imitation but the embodiment of a bright and shining ideal.” To overcome their suspicions and cynicism and to attract their souls they must be able to Baha’s community life joy, happi, and loving care for all, involvement with the rest of society, and sistent demonstration of our principles rather than simply talking about them. Most important, “deeds not words” must be our adorning.




























pus prac














In the early stages of the teaching plan, we have been humbled and galva d by the repeated encouragement and commendations of the Universal ice. The Supreme Body ‘immense pleasure” with on which the plan is based, the coordinated and __ systematic approach, the inaugural theme of race unity, and the high public response. Unequivocally it asserted the conviction that “great victories hover on the horizon of [our] community,” and it assured us that “you have only to reach for them ina thrust of action fit for champions.” at action begins this month with the full-scale national implementation of the plan. This will include broadcasting The Power of Race Unity, The Power of Prayer, and Tivo Wings of a Bird plus a ri commercia mately rea
















Is on stations that will ult


ch 48 million American homes, much of Canad: the Caribbean, “and Latin Ameri We confidently expect that as the broadcasts continue, mulating — everincreasing local teaching activities, thousands of people will call 1-800-22UNITE cach month, bringing the process of entry by troops to a new stage and placing unprecedented demand the smembe: its institutions. One can easily an ever-growing population of s which is larger than the population of enrolled believers. With this visi planted deeply in our hearts, we must our readiness, ually and practically, cast off doubts that hold us back, and rush forward to answer the call of our Lord to lead His children to the Kingdom of H

A THRUST OF ACTION FIT FOR CHAMPIONS















yen.


‘The wise ind intimate support of the Continental Counselors and their ties, for which we are profoundly grateful, are more important than ever at this critical moment in the advance of the Divine Plan. The work of the Counselors with the Regional Bab C has been essential to the i inaugural activities of those s. Moreover, their efforts ion through training nd other means, and their nce to local spiritual assemblies, are indispensable to increasing our capacity to reach a new stage in the expansion and consolidation of our community.

The Regional Bahs’i












Councils are


June 24, 1999

Tne American BanA‘i ¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999

page 17 [Page 18]“SET PN Pr TT TEST

ANNUAL REPORT® RIDV



een


rapidly winning the friends’ confidence. The new institutions are functioning as channels of love and encouragement and as regional centers for the coordination of the expansion and consolidation work. ch of the Councils has made impr ve efforts to meet with assemblies and with the believers, to coordinate regional action in support of the national teaching plan, to facilitate Baha’ training and education through institutes, and to advance spiritual assembly training. At this pivotal moment of the plan the inaugural guidance of the House of Justice to the newly formed Councils bears repeating: “In view of the acute urgency of advancing the process of entry by troops and the shortness of the time remaining to the Four Year Plan,” the House of Justice urges us “to press forward qui ly in effecting boost the thrust in the expansion and consolidation of the community.

Our capacity for spiritual Acemhy training and development advanced sigicantly when the Regional Councils joined the National Assembly's Office of tual Assembly Development to execute their mandate “to promote strong spiritual assemblies.” Although this collaboration is new, we are confident that it will increase the effectiveness and speed with which the Spiritual Assembly Development Program is carried out within the community. Urgent and sustained action to increase the ability of spiritual assemblies to nourish communities with love and inspire them with servant leadership and support will affect directly our collective ability to grow from strength to strength.

‘The increasing number of assemblies that have acquired or are planning to acquire local Baha’i Centers is also significant to our prospects for growth. This pattern is complemented by the expanding involvement of Baha’i communities in the life of society, the impressive growth of “Sunday schools” and training institutes, and the increase of organized efforts to promote fellowship and social service within and outside of the Baha’i community. Advancing the process of entry by troops requires a “new state of mind” among assembly members and_ those who elect them. Baha’u’llih’s World Order is “designed to canalize the forces of a new civilization” and requires constant expansion of membership and maturation of its institutions.

Our ambitious agenda requires adjustments in thought and action among all national and local institutions and their agencies and among individual Baha'is. The House of Justice has asked us to anticipate that entry by troops will act on us even as we act on it. How, then, shall we prepare?

‘The National Assembly's offices and agencies are in the midst of rethinking their functions and services based on the assumption that ten to fifteen thousand seekers a month will be calling 1-800-22UNITE in the near future. We anti
















pate a steady increase in the financial requirements of all of the funds to enable the community to respond appropriately to the expected tremendous growth of interest. Video production will increase and will be augmented by radio programs. A three-year plan is now underway to prepare a selection of Baha’i books for the public trade. Our periodical publications and our training programs and materials will need continual refinement and expansion in the light of our need to reach a broader audience. At the local level every aspect of Baha’ community and individual life will be transformed by a fast growing wave of interest in the Baha’{ teachings and Baha’ life.

SIGNS OF GROWING MATURITY





We are greatly encouraged by signs of growing maturity and spiritual discipline among the friends. Careful studies of Baha'i individual and community life conducted over the past ten years, indi cate that the vital signs of Baha’s life are growing stronger. The number of believers who pray and read daily from the Baha'i writings has more than doubled in ten years. Support of the teaching plan is widespread, as is general optimism about our prospects for growth. Teaching efforts are increasing dramatically among individuals and communities. Fund contributions by individual believers are more than three times greater than the average individual religious and charitable donations in our country. Almost half of the Baha’i community has taken a training-institute course and reported that it has helped them become better teachers. Confidence in the institutions at every level is high.

Moreover, nearly 5,000 Baha’is have gone pioneering or international traveling teaching during the Four Year Plan, among them 168 African-Americans who responded to the Ridvan 1996 call from the Universal House of Justice. Also, some 247 teacher trainers have graduated from the National Teacher ‘Training Center at Louhelen and are now training teachers for local and regional training institutes.

CHALLENGES OF VICTORY






‘These and other signs of the growing strength of the Baha’i community further reinforce our conviction that a great victory is within our grasp. Nevertheless, there remain serious challenges for us to face. Although the Baha’i community has. distinguished itself in race unity, all minorities are proportionately underrepresented in the active core of the Baha’ family when compared to the population at large. We must do more to reach out to and embrace our brothers and sisters of every color. Uniting the diversity of humankind is the mission of our community, and it is directly tied to the flow of spiritual blessings on which the progress of the Faith itself depends.


Likewise, we must redouble our efforts to effect gender equality, both in dialogue and practice. Full acknowledgeof the requirements of thi fundamental spiritual law of our Faith is ne ry to the transformation we seek as souls and as a community.

_ By all EES youth ; ac vity is grow ment




pan sine ing maturity and spiritual discipline. However, spiritual assemblies and Baha’i communities must do more to support and guide our youth, many of whom do not sufficiently enjoy their loving encouragement and support.

Noting the fundamental importance of assembly development to the success of on, we reiterate the seminal e of the Universal Hor of “Spiritual Assemblies must rise to a new stage in the exercise of their responsibilities as channels of guidance, planners of the teaching work, developers of human resources, builders of communities, and loving shepherds of the multitude: hey can realize the: prospects through increasing the abi of their members to take counsel together in accordance with the principles of the Faith and to consult with the friends under their jurisdiction. ...”

By all accounts individual teaching, on which our entire enterprise depends, is rising. This encouraging trend must be nurtured and sustained, especially through increasing participation in local and regional training __ institutes. Moreover, the unity of the friends must be continually strengthened. Every single soul must struggle to become “keenly conscious of the fact that they are [members of] one spiritual family, held together by bonds more sacred and eternal than those physical ties which make people of the same family.” Every effort we make to “forget personal differences and to open our hearts to a great love for each other for the sake of Baha’u’llih” will vastly increase our powers, attract the heart of the public, and facilitate the rapid growth of our community.

Baha’is of Persian background make an extraordinary contribution to the strength and vitality of the Baha’i community. With the certain advance of the process of entry by troops, we appeal to these precious friends, reiterating the words of the Universal House of Justic “We urge all the friends of Persian background, who constitute a most valuable source of ability and experience, to dedicate themselves, to an extent surpassing their past services, to the accomplishment of the goals of the Four Year Plan, under the leadership and guidance of the institutions of the Faith in North America. The unity of thought and endeavor between the friends from East and West will offer a shining example of the power of Baha'u'llah to demolish traditional barriers and will be a powerful source of attraction to the Cause.”

As our mission expands so, too, must the funds required to support it. We
















anticipate growth and development on every front—from the care of the Mother ‘Temple to the expansion of our properties and the production of materials and programs for and new believers. ‘The historic generosity and willingness to sacrifice so consistently demonstrated by the friends must grow in direct proportion to the demands of the work.

CONCLUSION




When the Supreme Body began construction of the “metropolis of the Kingdom of Heaven,” it explained that spiritual energies would be released with the completion of each stage of this “great enterprise.” These energies, it said, will transform the Baha’i community and advance the Cause. The House of Justice explained that the “Faith advances, not at a uniform rate of growth, but in vast surges, precipitated by the alternation of crisis and victory.” Moreover, the Supreme Institution reiterated the prophecies of ‘Abdu’l-Baha and Shoghi Effendi that a steady flow of fresh recruits “would presage and hasten” the advent of entry by troops. Entry by troops, they explained, would be a prelude to mass conversion, “as a direct result of a chain of events, momentous and possibly catastrophic in nature,” that will suddenly “derange the equilibrium of the world, and reinforce a thousandfold the numerical strength ... the material power and the spiritual authority of the Faith of Baha'u'llah.” They concluded with the admonition: “This is the time for which we must now prepare ourselves; this is the hour whose. coming it is our task to hasten.”

Dear friends, the Supreme Body has written that the “immense contribution" you are making to the advancement of the Cause inspired it to “look to the Baha'i community of the United States to perform, during the Four Year Plan heroic deeds of service to the Cause, which will astonish and inspire their fellow-believers throughout the world.” The House of Justice stated that “your accomplishments have prepared the way for even more spectacular successes in the years immediately ahead. Now as never before should you strive mightily to free yourselves from the obstacles of apathy, attachment to worldly pursuits, and lethargy, which stand in the way of so glorious a realization. As the people around you yearn increasingly for a society in which rectitude of conduct prevails, which is animated by a nobility of moral behavior, and in which the diverse races are firmly united, your challenge is to demonstrate the efficacy of the Message of Baha’u’llah in ministering to their needs and in recreating the very foundation of individual and social life. The whole of North America stands in desperate need of the inspiring vision, the dynamic sense of purpose and the idealism, which can be provided only by those who are imbued with the spirit and truths of the Baha’i Writings.”







You are ever in our hearts and prayers,

The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd’ts of the United States


page 18 THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 19]

n its Ridvin 1998 letter the

Universal House of Justice called

attention to “a mixed catalogue of world-shaking tribulations and worldshaping developments” and stated that “an unmistakable trend toward the Lesser Peace” could be discerned in the greater involvement of the United Nations in addressing urgent world problems and in a greater awareness of the interconnectedness of all nations. ‘These trends had a significant impact on the external affairs work of the National Spiritual Assembly as_ it continued to pursue the twofold external affairs mandate given to all National Spiritual Assemblies by the Universal House of Justice in October 1994: (1) to defend the Faith, including the persecution of the Baha’is in Iran, and (2) to influence the processes toward world peace by focusing on such areas as human rights, the status of women, global prosperity, and moral education.

In Iran, the execution of Mr. Ruhollah Rowhani in July 1998 and the attempt to shut down the Baha'i Institute of Higher Education, known as the Baha’f Open University, signaled an intensification of the pressure on the Iranian Baha’i community. The National Spiritual Assembly reinforced the Baha’i International Community’s diplomatic efforts to defend the Faith through further cultivation of relations with the U. government, with national organizations, and with the media. The U.S. government responded immediately to the crises of the past year. The White House, the State Department, and the U.S. Congress made statements and held hearings to protest the execution and the attack on the Baha’i Open University. There was excellent national and local media coverage of both events and an outpouring of support from prominent academics and educational institutions.

Dr. Wilma Ellis, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors in the Americas, continued to serve as the Baha'i representative on the U.S. State Department Advisory Committee on Religious Freedom Abroad, appointed in 1996 by the then Secretary of State Warren Christopher, which informs and advises the U.S. government on matters of religious persecution. The Committee completed its two-year mandate and presented its final report to the President in the spring of 1999.

The second area of external affairs activity—influencing the processes toward world peace—was likewise stimulated by the events that will lead eventually to the Lesser Peace. The National Spiritual Assembly continued to develop its ties to the United Nations and to collaborate with networks of like-minded organizations on ii such ‘as the development and implementation of __ international human rights law, U.N. reform, and payment of United States dues and arrears to the U.N. It also continued its national leadership role, jointly with















EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Amnesty International USA, in the effort to have the United States ratify the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms — of Discrimination Against Women. In addition, under the guidance of the Universal House of Justice, the National Spiritual Assembly began to work with other nongovernmental organizations to win the support of the United States government for the creation of an International Criminal Court. A treaty for the creation of the Court was adopted at a United Nations conference in Rome in July 1998.

The National Spiritual Assembly continued its systematic effort to support the President’s call for a national dialogue on race. Baha’is participated in two Religion Forums hosted by the President’s Race Initiative to promote the role of faith communities in the healing of racism. The National Assembly’s Secretary-General, Dr. Robert C. Henderson, was a plenary panelist at one of the forums. The National Spiritual Assembly helped plan and participated in a summit of national religious leaders convened to help carry forward the work of the President’s Race Initiative.

The direct collaboration “with the forces leading towards the establishment of order in the world” increased in both quality and quantity not only on the national level but also on the local level. A growing number of local spiritual assemblies responded to the requests of the National Spiritual Assembly to participate in grassroots campaigns for the defense of the Baha'is in Iran, U.S. ratification of human rights treaties, U.S. funding of the U.N., and the commemoration of U.N. special-event days. Also noteworthy were the activities of Baha’i youth and college clubs in seeking the support of universities and academics for the Baha’i Open University in Iran.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued to educate the Baha’i community in the area of external affairs through responses to numerous requests for guidance and information from Regional Baha’i Councils, local apiritual assemblies, and individuals. In a January 21, 1999, letter to the National Spiritual Assembly, the Universal House of Justice conveyed its de that the Regional Councils should not have responsibility for the work of external affairs. Thus the responsibility will remain with the National Spiritual Assembly to guide the external affairs work of local spiritual assemblies and to decide on statewide and national external affairs policies and activities.

‘The National Assembly hosted the external affairs secretaries of two other National Spiritual Assemblies that are in the process of setting up their own external affairs offices. They visited the Washington, D.C., office to gain a deeper understanding of the external affairs work and the organization of the office.




















DEFENSE OF BAHA'IS OF IRAN

© paramount concern of the National Spiritual Assembly in external affairs continued to be the defense of the Baha’is in Iran and other Muslim countries. The National Spiritual Assembly's secretary for external affairs, Dr. Firuz Kazemzadeh, visited Washington, DC, regularly to meet with government officials in the State Department, the White House, and in the Congress. On these visits he was accompanied by Ms. Kit Cosby, the director of the Washington, DC-based Office of the Secretary for External Affairs. These and other vi throughout the year by the staff of the Washington, DC, office kept the U.S. government up to date on the situation of the Baha’is in Iran. It is clear from the public statements made by the White House and State Department, in the annual State Department report on human rights in Iran, in Congressional hearings and statements read into the Congressional Record, and in other government actions that the government relied on the information provided by the National Spiritual Assembly.

On November 17 Dr. Kazemzadeh spoke about “The New Iranian Crisis” at the Center for Jewish and Christian Values’ Religious Liberty Forum held on Capitol Hill. The Forum was one of a series of briefings on religious freedom issues hosted by the Center and attended regularly by staff from the Washington office.











EXECUTION OF MR. RUHOLLAH ROWHANI AND CONFIRMATION OF DEATH SENTENCES

In testimony before the Subcommittee on International Operations and Human Rights of the House International Relations Committee on June 16, Dr. Kazemzadeh warned that recent events in Iran indicated a possible intensification of the persecution of the Baha’ and explained that the Baha’{ community had often been made a scapegoat during times of domestic stress in Iran. He expressed concern particularly for the life of Mr. Ruhollah Rowhani, who had been held in solitary confinement in Mashhad since September 1997 on the charge of converting a Muslim to the Baha’i Faith. Mr. Rowhani was executed by hanging on July 20 without charges ora public trial. At the end of September two other Baha’is held in the same prison in Mashhad were informed orally by prison authorities that their death sentences had been confirmed, bringing the number of Baha’ prisoners on death row to six.





ATTEMPT TO CLOSE THE BAHA'I INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION Between September 30 and October 3 Iranian intelligence officers launched a coordinated campaign of raids and arrests in an attempt to shut down the Baha’i Institute of Higher Education. They plundered more than five hundred Baha’i homes and arrested at least thirty-six Baha’i faculty members who were pressured to sign a document stating that the Institute had been dissolved and that they would no longer support it. Iranian government officers confiscated classroom furniture, textbooks, scientific papers and records, computers, and personal household effects. Three of the arrested faculty members remain in prison in Isfahan.

U.S. GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

As a result of information provided by the National Spiritual Assembly, the White House press secretary and the State Department spokesman condemned the execution of Mr. Rowhani in July and stated that the treatment of religious minorities, including the Baha’is, would “play an important role in any future dialogue with the Government of Iran.” In October the White House and State Department made additional statements condemning the confirmation of death sentences and arrests of. faculty members. The Voice of America covered the Baha’i case extensively in radio and television programs and editorials broadcast internationally. On December 10, International Human Rights Day, the Voice of America devoted an hour-long radio program with a potential audience of eighty-five million to an interview on the Baha’i Faith with Dr. Kazemzadeh, Ms. Cosby, and the consulting director of the Office of Publ Information, Ms. Victoria Jones.

‘Thirty-seven members of Congress signed a letter addressed to U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan calling on him to take action to protect the Baha'is. Several other members of Congress, including Representatives Tom Lantos and John Porter and Senator Sam Brownback, called attention to the plight of the Bahd’is in statements in the Congressional — Record. In March, Congressmen Joseph Pitts and Tony Hall and Senators Sam Brownback and Joseph Lieberman announced the formation of the Religious Prisoners Congressional ‘Task Force to enable members of Congress to “adopt” prisoners held for religious reasons and to advocate to heads of state on their behalf. The Office of Senator Brownback contacted _ the National Spiritual Assembly for information about Baha’i prisoners in Iran who could be included among the initial cases to be considered by the task force. The National Spiritual Assembly provided prisoner profiles for four Baha'is in Iran who were on death row accused of apostasy and for religious activities not sanctioned by Islam. A representative of the National Assembly attended the press briefing at which the formation of the task force was announce:












  • June 24,1999

~ THe AMERICAN Ban’

¢ ANNUAL Report 1999 page 19 [Page 20]

CAMPAIGN TO INFORM THE U.S. EDUCATIONAL SECTOR

At the end of October the Universal House of Justice asked several National Spiritual Assemblies to mobilize their Baha’i communities to seek the support of the educational sector for the Baha’f Institute of Higher Education, known as the Baha’i Open University, in Iran. As a result of the nationwide concentrated efforts of local spiritual assemblies, campus clubs, and individual Baha’is who work in the educational field, the U.S. academic community gained a new level of awareness of the plight of the Baha’fs in Iran. Hundreds of university faculty and administrators pledged to support the Baha’i Open University by writing letters of protest to the Iranian Minister of Education and UNESCO, the U.N. agency charged with protecting the right to education. At least eighty college or university presidents were contacted, and seven are known to have written letters of protest. Baha’is on nearly two hundred campuses reported a wide range of initiatives including faculty and student senate resolutions, articles in campus and local newspapers, radio coverage, mayors’ proclamations, candlelight vigils, information tables, public meetings, and petitions.

WORK WITH NATIONAL MEDIA

The execution of Mr. Ruhollah Rowhani, the confirmation of the death sentences of two Baha’is, and the crackdown by Iranian authorities on the Baha’i_ Open University provided opportunities for major media coverage of the plight of the Baha’is in Iran, including an editorial by the Washington Post, a feature story in the New York Times, and an article in the Chronicle of Higher Education. The Office of the Secretary for External Affairs and the Office of Public Information contacted major media outlets, both national and regional, including the U.N. correspondents of U.S. newspapers and wire services. Several important _ stories appeared as a result including a news item on the PBS show Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.


DIPLOMATIC WORK

In January 1999 the National Assembly's secretary for external affairs and the director of the Assembly’s Washington office, together with external affairs representatives from six other National Spiritual Assemblies and the Baha’i International Community’s U.N. offices, participated at the Baha’i World Center in Haifa in detailed discussions about the conduct of the diplomatic work, particularly aspects related to the defense of the Baha’is in Iran.

‘Together with representativi twenty-eight — National Assemblies, they also participated in the Third Diplomatic Training Sei convened by the Baha'i Intern: Community in Acuto, Italy, in September 1998. The meeting focused on fostering greater integration a coordination of the Faith’s diplomatic efforts internationally.





ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON RELIGIOUS

FREEDOM ABROAD

Dr. Wilma Ellis, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors in the Americas, continued to serve as one of twenty prominent religious leaders and scholars on the State Department’s Advisory Committee on Religious Freedom Abroad. She chaired its subcommittee on outreach and dialogue. The Committee issued its final report to the Secretary of State and the President in the spring of 1999.

Staff from the National Spiritual Assembly’s office in Washington, particularly the assistant to the director, Mr. Dwight Bashir, attended several highlevel meetings and consultations on behalf of Dr. Ellis. As a result of the Baha'i presence on the Advisory Committee, the National Spiritual Assembly's representatives were invited to take part in a number of meetings and conferences on religious liberty.

REFUGEES

Ms. Puran Stevens, director of the U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office (USBRO), and her assistant, Mr. Kevin Morrison, attended the State Department’s annual Office of Refugee Resettlement Conference in Washington, DC. They spoke of the status of the Baha’is of Iran in workshops and in question-andanswer portions of the plenary sessions with more than one thousand in attendance. They also discussed the status of the Baha’is of Iran with officials of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the U.S. State Department, and the State of Illinois. The Commissioner of UNHCR, Ms. Sadako Ogata, publicly condemned the persecution of Baha’is.

The collaborative __ relationship between the Baha'i Refugee Office and UNHCR resulted in the resolution of many difficult cases of Baha'i refugees in Japan and Turkey who were initially rejected, and later approved, for resettlement.

‘The Refugee Office continued to make available the latest information in immigration, refugee, and asylum matters to the Baha’is of Iran and other countries. ‘The Office staff consulted with hundreds of family members of refugees and potential refugees, outlining U.S. government and UNHCR definitions of a refugee, policies in refugee resettlement, and options available to those who have a legitimate fear of persecution.

Over the course of the year several Baha’i refugees who had used the underground routes to enter Turkey were not able to register with the Turkish government their claim to asylum within the prescribed five-day period. They were subsequently faced with deportation proceedings. The USBRO. worked closely with the UNHCR and the U.S. State Department to appeal many of cases, most of which were resolved






number of Iranian Baha’is began arriving in the U.S. in June and July 1998, which overwhelmed a number of Baha’i communities. The Refu Office worked with the Spiritual


Assemblies affected by this influx of Persian Baha’is, assisting in their immediate integration into Baha’{ community life and counseling the Assemblies on cultural differences.

The director of the Refugee Office was interviewed about the status of the Iranian Baha’is on Voice of America on a program broadcast to the Middle East, including Iran. She was part of a select group of representatives of various agencies invited by the Lawyers Committee for Preserving Asylum to participate in meetings about the restructuring of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). The first of these meetings was held in February 1999. In addition, she attended a comprehensive six-day, forty-hour legal training, which outlined all the substantive changes in law, public benefits, and refugee, asylum, and immigration matters. The Refugee Office staff attended numerous other events, meetings, and symposia in the Chicago area on refugee, asylum, and humanitarian issues.

UNITED NATIONS ACTIVITIES: HUMAN RIGHTS, THE STATUS OF WOMEN, AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Gpppore for selected U.N. activities and collaboration with other nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that participate in U.N. fora has proven to be the greatest avenue for Baha’i entree into external affairs activities at the national level. Since its initial support in 1985 for U.S. ratification of the U.N. Convention on Genocide, the National Assembly has expanded its activities by working on the preparation for the U.N. conferences on the environment and development, human rights, social development, women, and human settlements. In recent years its staff has held positions of leadershi within networks and promote international issues and U.N. activities. The U.S. National Assembly supports and reinfor International Community’s (BIC) activities in the international arena, and the BIC and the National Spiritual Assembly collaborate with many of the same organizations.





U.S. RATIFICATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF U.N. HUMAN RIGHTS TREATIES

For the past several years the director of the Office of the Secretary for External Affairs has been the cochair of the General Human Rights Working Group, which has organized NGO efforts to ratify U.N. human rights trea ince the mid-1980s. Current treaties under consideration include the Convention on the of All Forms of imi 5 Women, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the American Convention on Human Rights, and the Covenant on Economic, Cultural and Social Rights.





CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN (CEDAW)

The director of the National Assembly’s Washington, DC, office and Amnesty International USA's chief legislative counsel continued to co-chair the Working Group on Ratification of the U.N. Convention to Eliminate Discrimination Against Women, a group of more than 100 national NGOs engaged in outreach and education to achieve ratification by the U.S. of the U.N. treaty which bans discrimination against women. The National Assembly’s Washington office continued to serve as the secretariat for the working group, fielding questions and. providing materials on CEDAW to Baha’is and to non-Baha’i organizations and individuals working on U.S. ratification of the treaty. The director of the Washington office participated in workshops and made presentations on CEDAW ratification at several national and regional conferences.

The Working Group continued to encourage U.S. senators to pledge support for ratification of the treaty and to stimulate the passage of resolutions supporting the treaty at the state and local level. In July 1998 Baha’is attended and participated in the 150th anniversary of the first women’s rights conference in Seneca Falls. U.S. ratification of the U.N. Convention on Women was discussed on panels and in plenary speeches. The National Spiritual Assembly provided materials on ratification of the treaty.


UNITED NATIONS FUNDING

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued to cooperate with other organizations in advocating full and on-time payment of all U.S. financial obligations to the United Nations. During the past year the U.N. become increasingly threatened by a financial crisis precipitated in large part by U.S. failure to pay its accumulated arrears. In 1998 the U.S. narrowly averted the loss of its vote in the General Assembly by paying just enough to avoid implementation of Article 19 of the U.N. Charter. The article calls for a loss of vote in the U.N. General Assembly if a country’s arrears level equals or exceeds its regular dues for the preceding two full years.

The National Spiritual Assembly’s NGO liaison, Mr. Peter Adriance, worked closely with other NGO representatives on the funding issue. He participated in the activities of the Internationalism Working Group (INTWG) composed of representatives from some thirty organizations and coalitions of NGOs, including the United Nations Association. The Working Group met bimonthly for strategy meetings and organized NGO delegations that conducted numerous visits to congressional offices to advocate on behalf of arrears payment. The Better World Fund, in conjunction with the United ions ciation, announced a natiot fort to achieve payment of U.S. arrears to the U.N. by galvanizing U.S. citizens to contact their congressmen.









page 20. THe American BanA’i * Annuat Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 21]

OFFICE OF THE BAHA'I U.S. U.N. REPRESENTATIVE The U.S. U.N. representative, Mr. Jeffrey Huffines, and his assistant, Mr. Carl Murrell, fulfilled daily requests for information and guidance from the Baha’ community, attended weekly U.N. Department of — Public Information briefings and occasional briefings at the U.S. Mission, and

spoke to various student groups.

The U.N. representative served the final year of a two-year term as treasurer of the Committee of Religious NGOs at the U.N. and continued to serve on the Executive Council of the U.S. chapter of the World Conference on Religion and Peace. He also worked with the U.S. Committee for

  • to encourage Baha’f comin the United State

territories to support the

Treat for UNICEF campaign in October 1999.

After three years on the planning committee of the annual U.N. DPI/NGO Conference, the U.N. representative’s assistant was elected to serve as chairman of the 1999 conference. He served as vice-chair of the 1998 U. DPI/NGO conference, “The Fiftieth Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: From Words to Deeds.” He was also elected to the Coordinating Council of the Values Caucus founded in 1994 to sponsor values-related programs at the U.N.

‘The National Spiritual Assembly cosponsored the second annual interfaith “Service of Commitment to the Work of the U.N.” The U.N. Secretary-General attended the service, which marked the opening of the 53rd session of the U.N. General Assembly

“and commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Human

Rights (UDHRS0). On December 10

the National Assembly also co-spon sored an interfaith service organized by ‘The Temple of Understanding to commemorate UDHRSO. The event featured the participation of the Northeast

Regional Baha’i Choir.

The U.N. Office encouraged local Baha’i communities to commemorate United Nations Day on October 24, Human Rights Day on December 10, and International Women’s Day on March 8. The U.N. representative spoke at a UNA luncheon in Amherst, Massachusetts, for United Nations Day, and at a luncheon sponsored by the Baha’is of Ventura County, California, for Human Rights Day attended by more than 380 guests, including five mayors.

The U.N. Office collaborated with the Baha’i International Community in establishing a joint internship program. Interns collaborated with the National Youth Committee to encourage Baha’i college clubs to participate in U.N.-related activities and assisted the Wilmette Institute in preparing a comparative analysis of selected Baha’i U.N. statements.





SOTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.N. DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS (UDHRS50)

The National Spiritual Assembly joined the Franklin & Eleanor Roosevelt Institute and other national organizations to conduct local town hall meetings on Human Rights Day, December 10, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the U.N. General Assembly.

The National Assembly’s U.N. Office invited one local spiritual assembly in each state to help organize a town hall meeting to promote the understanding and practice of human rights on the local level. Several Baha’is attended the professional training offered by the Roosevelt Institute in Washington, 1 for the nationwide campaign. Bab comm es in such states as California, Maine, North Carolina, Idaho, and Vermont played key organizing roles to a: the campaign to achieve its goal of setting up fifty-two local town hall meetings nationwide. The Roosevelt Institute cited the National Assembly as one of eight organizations that made significant contributions to the campaign.

Staff of the Washington, DC, office attended a UDHRSO luncheon on Human Rights Day on Capitol Hill.




sin





FOLLOW-UP TO THE FOURTH WORLD CONFERENCE ON WOMEN

‘The National Spiritual Assembly continued its commitment to implement the Platform for Action, the official document of the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing. The director of the Office of the Secretary for External A! was the co-founder and co-chair of the Washington-based Working Group on the Human Rights of Women, a network of more than seventy-five organizations with over one-half million members that formed in 1994 to instill a human-rights framework into the Platform for Action. The Working Group continued to promote and protect the equality of women in places like Bosnia and Afghanistan on the basis of international human rights standards. Members of the Working Group frequently met with State Department officials at the Bureaus of the Human Rights and South Asian Affairs as well as with the Senior Coordinator _ for International Women’s Affairs particularly to encourage a strong U.S. position on the violations of the rights of women in Afghanistan. The Working Group also worked with the President’s Interagency Council on Women to implement the Platform for Action, including the U.S. human-rights commitments announced at the Fourth World Conference on Women.

Along with representatives of many other organizations, the director of the Washington office helped to found and develop U.S. Women Connect, a new national NGO to stimulate and monitor implementation of the Platform in the United States. The new organization will permit women and women’s organi




zations to communicate with each other and with U.S. government agencies at all levels that are responsible for implementing the Platform for Action. The National Spiritual Assembly’s new NGO liaison for Women’s Issues, Ms. Leila Milani, took on the responsibility for obtaining 501(c)(3) status for U.S. Women Connect. In an effort to inform both the national and international NGO community of U.S. Women Connect, staff of the Washington office were co-chairs of an informational meeting at the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women in March 1999. The staff also attended a session of the Commission that served as a preparatory committee for the special session of the General Assembly in the year 2000, which will open the five year review of the Platform for Action.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The NGO liaison served on the national planning committee for the National Town Meeting for a Sustainable America (NTM) to be held in Detroit in May 1999. Sponsored by the President’s Council for Sustainable Development and the — Global Environment and ‘Technology Foundation, the NTM is the largest event of its kind to date in the U.S. Attendees will include business leaders, NGOs, government officials, and academics, as well as individual citizens. Thousands of people are expected to become involved in affiliated events around the country. The NTM will focus on building awareness, exchanging ideas, and fostering partnerships to help communities, businesses and the nation as a whole to develop more sustainably into the future. The NGO liaison also served on the Outreach Working Group charged with attracting broad parti tion in the event and its related activities. He helped plan the National Spiritual Assembly's exhibit for the event and encouraged local Baha’{ communities across the nation to consider holding ed events during the year.

The National Spiritual Assembly continued its involvement with the Alliance for U.N. Sustainable Development Programs. The Alliance monitored and evaluated the work of U.N. agencies in advancing sustainable development, undertook activities to broaden public understanding of sustainable development, and expressed its concerns and views on U.N. sustainable development initiatives to policy makers in Washington, both in the Administration and Congress. As a founder of the Alliance and a member of its National Steering Committee, the NGO liaison helped plan and carry out several programs including one on the Global Environment Facility held at the National Press Club and a day-long Forum — on U.N. — Sustainable Development Programs held at American University.

The NGO liaison also continued to serve as a member of the National Steering Committee of the Citizens Network for Sustainable Development. ‘The Network, formed in 1990, is made







up of organizations and individuals interested in advancing the concept and practice of sustainable development locally, nationally, and internationally. The Network planned NGO activities in preparation for the 1999 session of the U.N. Commission on Sustainable Development and worked to improve efforts to achieve sustainable development nationally and in communities throughout the U.S.

EARTH CHARTER

The NGO liaison continued to work with other organizations to help develop the Earth Charter—a document that attempts to express the ecological and human values required fordiving sustainably. The Earth Charter project aims at producing a “popular” document which will be circulated worldwide. It will ultmately be offered for endorsement by members of the United Nations and, if adopted, will serve as the ethical foundation for all decision-making on matters of environment and development.

The NGO liaison serves on the Earth Charter National Committee of the U.S., one of more than thirty national committees worldwide charged with helping to develop the Charter. In July 1998 he represented the Baha’ International Community at an international conference on “Spirituality, Sustainability, and the Earth Charter” in Assisi, Italy. He also attended two conferences on World Religions and Ecology held in Boston and New York and sponsored by Harvard University in cooperation with the Center for Respect of Life and the f ent. Those conferences included the Earth Charter as a major focus.





UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES

‘The U.N. representative served as first. vice-chair of the Executive Committee of the United Nations Association’s New York Council of Organizations. He also served on the UNA Convention Advisory Committee, which organized UNAS biennial national convention in New York City in March 1999. Two representatives from the National Assembly's Washington office attended the national convention. Other Baha’is from around the country attended the convention and visited the

New York offices of the Baha'i International Community and _ the National Assembly.

The NGO liaison represented the National Spiritual Assembly to the UNA-USA’s Council of Organizations in Washington, DC. He ended his service on the executive committee in June 1998, having served as a member and officer for the previous seven years.

RACE UNITY

PRESIDENT’S INITIATIVE ON RACE | Res National Spiritual Assembly continued to collaborate with President Clinton’s year-long Initiative on Race, launched in July 1997 to stimulate a dialogue on race relations throughout’ the country. The Race


June 24, 1999

Tue American BanA’i ¢ AnnuAL Rerort 1999

page 21 [Page 22]

Initiative hosted two Religious Forums to examine the role of religion in racial reconciliation, one in New Orleans on May 21, and the other in Louisville, Kentucky, on June 1. The National Spiritual Assembly’s Secretary-General, Dr. Robert C. Henderson, spoke on a plenary panel at the forum in Louisville. The director of the Office of the Secretary for External Affairs attended both forums.

As a result of the Baha’i presence at the two Religious Forums, the National Spiritual Assembly’s staff was asked to be on the planning committee for a summit of national faith leaders, which was held at the White House Conference Center on October 22 and 23. Dr. Henderson and Ms. Cosby represented the National Spiritual Assembly at the summit. At the request of the President, the summit was convened by the National Conference for Community and Justice to advise him on initiatives the faith community could undertake to advance racial justice in the U.S. The recommendations from the summit were to be incorporated into the President’s final report on the e Initiative. At the year’s end the President announced the formation of a permanent White House Office on Race Relations to carry forward the work of the Race Initiative. The National Spiritual Assembly will continue to work closely with the White House office.

OTHER ACTIVITIES


INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE

‘he director of the Washington, DC,

office served on the Advisory Board of the International Development Conference, one of the premier international conferences for development agencies and professionals. The theme of the biennial conference, held in January 1999, was “The Global Meeting of Generations: Vision and Action for Development in the 21st Century.” The National Spiritual Assembly took a leadership role as co-theme leader for “Values and Ethics,” one of the conference’s 12 thematic tracks. The assistant


ust as the community is engaged on a

broad front with issues of vital importance, so has it engaged the challenging prospect of funding an expanding agenda at the local, regional, national, continental, and international levels.

The news is encouraging. The friends have responded to the needs of the Faith with generosity and alertness. At the same time more will need to be done as the process of entry by troops continues to accelerate and its requirements increase.

THE YEAR'S RESULTS IN BRIEF [ paca contributions for the

year are projected to reach $17.5 million by the end of the year, down

to the director, Mr. Glen Fullmer, served as co-chair of the track, and Baha’is participated prominently in workshops on corporate ethics, ethics for leadership and governance, and the role of religions in promoting an intergenerational ethic.

The National Spiritual Assembly appointed several individuals to be its representatives to other national organizations such as the North American Interfaith Network and the National Council of Women.

OFFICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION

Pamela Zivari retired as director of the Office of Public Information after taking maternity leave, and Victoria Jones assumed the role of consulting director in July 1998.

The Office of Public Information consulted with and advised communities and individuals on a number of media-related issues. Subjects ranged widely and included situations arising in TY, radio, and print. Members of the press are becoming better informed about the Baha'i teachings, and there have been several instances this year of Baha'is facing questions on controversial issues and having to deal with questions they have never had to answer before. The Office assisted Baha’is on such issues as the millennium, the recent impeachment debate, and membership in the Universal House of Justice. Several media outlets interviewed the director on a wide variety of Baha’i-related subjects.

The Office of Public Information received and responded to more than two thousand requests from public information representatives and others during the last six months. This significant increase from the year before was due in large part to the response by Baha’fs and the media to the recent crises in Iran. The assistant to the director, Ms. Tonya Homan, played a vital role in managing the increased work of the office.

‘The director continued to participate in the Religious Communicators Council (formerly known as the Religious Public Relations Council) and the Public Relations Society of America.



13% from last year’s $20.2 million. The 1999 total is also lower than the threeyear average of $18.1 million. With earmarked contributions of $1.3 million, the estimated contribution total will be $18.8 million, as compared with the goal for the year of $27 million.

On the international front, the American Baha’{ community will likely register some sobering results as well as some admirable ones. The overall decline in contributions is expected to decrease the contribution to the Baha’i World Center to about $3.6 million, or 20% of basic contributions, and to decrease the amount allocated to the Continental Fund to 1.4%, or $256,000." These results would bring the average allocation to



TREASURY

She submitted the Baha’f video The Power of Race Unity to the Religious Communicators Council awards contest. The winners had not been determined at publication time.

NATIONAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN

‘The Office of Public Information continued to collaborate with the National Teaching Committee, Media Services, and Information Services on the national media initiative. The director participated in the review of videos, attended focus groups, and worked with other Baha'i media professionals giving input on videos and TV commercials. The director also joined the newly formed National Radio Task Force.

NETWORK OF PUBLIC INFORMATION REPRESENTATIVES

‘The Office of Public Information has continued to assist 1,260 public information representatives around the country to distribute materials to the media. The number of public information representatives who have access to e-mail increased, making communication more timely and efficient. The Office of Public Information continued to distribute sample press rel ind articles to publicize Holy Days and celebrations. The Office encouraged representatives to write and distribute their own releases to increase their skills and to produce innovative, local stories. There was an increase in the number of requests for the Baha’ Public Information Handbook and press. kits, especially since the beginning of the media initiative.

The Office continued efforts to train public information representatives to increase their effectiveness in working with the media. Public information representatives in the Dallas metro region attended an intensive one-day training session, which included writing op-ed pieces and undergoing a mock interview on a series of controversial issues. One hundred of the most active public information representatives continue to receive copies of World Order magazine on a quarterly basis for use in their proclamation efforts.




the Baha’i International Fund for the Plan’s first three years to 33% of basic contributions, compared with the goal of 26%; in dollar terms, however, contributions will have dropped to about half the three-year average of $6.6 million. A bright spot w: national financial collaboration: at the request of the Universal House of Justice, the National Assembly




US. BAHA'I REFUGEE OFFICE

SOUTHEAST ASIAN TEACHING AND CONSOLIDATION

le addition to assisting in the relocation

ind settlement of Iranian Baha’s refugees, the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office (USBRO) continued to work on the teaching and consolidation of Southeast Asian communities. The Refugee Office continued to publish the quarterly Southeast Asian Helpers Bulletin, which relates news and success stories to five hundred subscribers. The Office redesigned this publication and made the necessary equipment upgrades to produce it in-house, which will realize substantial savings for the National Fund in the long term.

‘The Ninth Annual Southeast Asian Community Builders Roundtable Discussion Conference was held at Bosch Baha’{ School in August 1998. The conference focused on advancing the process of entry by troops in the Southeast Asian population. The majority of the presenters this year were Southeast Asians, and many were women. A separate conference focusing on the basic principles of the Baha’{ Faith was held concurrently for a largely non-Baha’s youth audience.

The Refugee Office distributed complimentary copies of the Babd’i Newsreel and of The Power of Race Unity video to selected Southeast Asian helpers who in turn shared these videos with Southeast Asian community members. The Office also produced a video on the equality of women and men in the English and Hmong languages narrated by Mr. Lao Chue Cha and his daughter, Ms. Mai Thao.

The director of the USBRO conducted numerous site visits to areas in the western states with large numbers of Southeast Asians to consult with leaders of several Southeast Asian tribes, stimulate local plans for teaching and consolidation, and meet with the helpers and their families.

‘The USBRO continues to maintain the largest inventory in the world of Southeast Asian Baha’f materials, including videos. Recently, USBRO reproduced eighteen titles in the Vietnamese language received from the Baha’ World Center.

allocated some $100,000 out of unrestricted gifts to help purchase the new National Baha’i Center in Honduras. The National Spiritual Assembly also allocated $10,000 for aid to Central American National Assemblies in the wake of Hurricane Mitch, while the friends spontaneously gave significant amounts in direct aid of their own.

  • Note: The base used for this allocation is total contributions of $18.8 million

less $705,000 of miscellaneous earmarked gifts, or $18.1 million. The $3.6 million total remitted to the Baha’i World Center for the year includes roughly $200,000 forwarded under the National Spiritual Assembly’s international financial collaboration goal, committed to the Universal House of Justice at the

Plan’s outset.


page 22. Tue AMERICAN BanA’i * ANNUAL Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 23]Total revenues, which in addition to contributions include earned income on. book sales, school tuition, and investments, will likely be $23.1 million, a decrease of 8% from last year. Expenses are estimated at $22.4 million, a decrease of 16% compared to last year. Fiscal 1999 is expected to end with a surplus of $1.9 million, up from a $5,000 deficit last year.

Expenses are down despite significant new costs in several areas. Whereas last year the amounts invested in media proclamation were quite modest, this year will likely see media-related expenses reach some $500,000, while able increases are registered in departments that directly support the teaching plan: the Publishing Trust and the Baha’i Distribution Service, where new materials were produced and new unit volume records were set; the Education and Schools Office, where new curricula and support materials were authored and trainers prepared in connection with The Power of Race Unity videotape; Media Services, which at the end of the year was finishing production on the third broadcast video; and the External Affairs/Public Information organization, which assisted with public relations and community training mateThe Regional Baha’i Councils, ch had only begun to function last year, are projected to have spent some $435,000.

‘That new activities could be accommodated implies a careful reallocation of human and financial resources. Plans and department budgets were changed as circumstances required, and the staff of the Baha'i National Center and the other national agencies worked longer hours. Participants in the Weekend Visit program, a National Center program that entered its tenth year in 1999, were nearly unanimous in expressing their astonishment at how much is done by so few people with such limited resources. Their observations are both a testimony to the dedication of the friends who serve at our National Center and a commentary on a real limitation that must be considered as the I



















THE NEXT THRESHOLDS TO CROSS


rom the perspective of the Faith’s financial objectives, the _ first threshold has to do with the maturity

of the American Bahai community. of entry by troops will


The proce accelerate, for there are more than 200 s who still have not heard of the Fi ith. This growth will unavoidably require major investments at every level. Only wholehearted, unqu ied, and universal support will serve the need of the moment. There bout the and the alternatives








the community faces as we progress. Feedback suggests, however, that there is a part of the community, albeit a one, that harbors misgivings the National mbly resources the






about how

spends i



or about





FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS April 30, 1999 (Projected), April 30, 1998 and April 30, 1997 scal Year Ended April 30 1999 1998 1997

Contributions Received by the National Spiritual Assembly

Unrestricted* $17,458,209 $20,179,076 $16,610,583

Restricted 1,343,791 2,150,456 3,927,662 ‘Total Contributions $18,802,000 $22,329,532 $20,538,245 Remittances to Other Organizations

International and Are Funds $ 3,440,947 $ 8,643,392 $ 8,121,651

Continental Fund 256,360. 395,967 334,207

Other Baha'i Funds and Deputization 846,434 806,371 747,260 Total Contributions to Other Organizations $ 4,543,741 $ 9,845,730 S$ 9,203,118 Capital Expenditures and Depreciation

Capital Expenditures $1,900,597 $2,193,609 $1,392,152

Depreciation 1,532,207 1,548,585 1,477,025 ‘Total Revenues $23,088,209 $25,221,654 $23,796,999 ‘Total Expenses $21,234,428 $25,226,984 $21,689,371 Total Net Assets $20,055,176 $17,871,737 $18,129,344

  • Note: “Unrestricted contributions” includes contributions with discretionary earmar





friends’ capacity to give. Now is the time to let such feelings go and to serve Baha’u'llah’s purposes with confidence, paving the way to give our best service







to Him and to our nation in unity. With the community’s unity confirmed, the financial challenge

becomes a soluble problem.

Our second threshold, our shared challenge, be to balance our investments at the various levels at which we, as a community, are active. Local investments can either support or detract from our national and international responsi bilities; it is our choice. Our recent history in contributing to the Arc and to

ister communities in need tells us we have the capacity to meet all these obligations. Indeed, the American Baha’i community is one of the main financial pillars of every international activity, a privilege given us through the special tenderness of our beloved Master, ‘Abdu’l-Baha.

The friends have been ve this year at the local ley unity activities, proclamation using local media, and a rapidly accelerating movement to acquire local Baha'i centers are three of in areas of focus. The decrease in contributions received at the National Center may be directly attributed to these causes; the fact that the decline has not been a steep one attests to the friends’ generosity. There is no question that local investment in centers and programs is integral to growth; our investme to be made carefully, however, to obtain the greatest result and maintain the vital balance between and i



















local




Correspondence indicates that m ny sare so enthusiastic about

g for their first Ba enter, or about acquiring one, that they are not

acting with enough care, thereby putting


to the extent it has See available for

the task, to create tools to help local communities with this process. During the coming year, the Office of the ‘Treasurer hopes its preparations will yield results that will prove useful to the friends. Creating those tools, however,








requires meetings, travel, phone calls and materials—additional but needed expenses,

Likewi the Regional Baha’i

Councils will enter their second term of service and will, no doubt, extend the scope of their operations and of their collaboration with local spiritual emblies. This will be expensive, and the lion’s share of that expense will be funded by local communities, not so much through special fundraisers but by partnering with the Councils to meet common goals that benefit all parties.

At the continental and international levels, our work will also accelerate. ‘The completion of the Arc Projects. April 2000 will release energies that change the worldwide Baha’f community in ways no one can presently visuale. Our history indicates that every on of fresh spiritual potential translates itself into practical arrangements, and those, as Baha'u'llah Himself affirms, are “dependent on















The third threshold to cross con


cerns our own work as a national community. During the coming year the National Spiritual A: with the friends to con further development of our own infra: tructure as a national community and necessary to: structure. This development will affect us, as the Cradle of the Administrative Orde other national Baha Temple in Wilmette, our ‘ teacher,” will require additional work and the ex ion of some of its servi ial





build tha





ic


The teaching plan, and espec



ly its media component, will be accel erated. The Bahd’{ National Center staff will be judiciously increased. Public Information, for example, has two professionals, one of them parttime, as we prepare to embark on the greatest proclamation effort of our history. Services that make it easier for local spiritual assemblies to communicate, sharing their ideas and solving their common problems, will be launched, adding a whole new facet to our unity.

‘The community is strong and generous. Comparison of our giving patterns with those of other religious and chart table groups reaffirms that the sense of commitment the Baha’is in America demonstrate far outshines that of their fellow citizens, and we have done so consistently for years. We have demonstrated, in time of need, that our capacity is much greater than we believe it to be, while growth in our numbers will only reinforce that capacity. The funds to accomplish all our goals are in the friends’ hands.

THE DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF THE BAHA'I FUND

Eeahurs to the Baha'i Fund ona regular basis is the sacred obligation and an integral part of the devotional life of every sincere believer. VOLUNTARY NATURE

‘The amount given is voluntary and rests entirely with the individual—yet the amount is important. Every contri bution is valued by the degree of sacrifice involved.







PRIVILEGE Support of the Fund is a privilege reserved only for those who have declared their belief in Baha’u'llih. REGULAR AND SACRIFICIAL Regular and sacrificial giving is a measure of a believer's devotion to Baha'u'llah and a cause of spiritual growth.

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS APRIL 30, 1999 AND 1998

OPERATIONS AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES ¢ National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahd’is of the United States (the Assembly) was established in 1927 as a voluntary trust and subsequently icorporated in October 1994 as an not- forprofie comporauon to








, fund balies of the


ances, and


Nation the Publishing ‘Trust, and the Bab Home.

The principal accounting polici by the Assembly are as follows: CONTRIBUTIONS Contributions from members of the th, unless specifically restricted by the donor, ‘are considered to be avail







June 24, 1999


Tue AMERICAN Batt

¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999 page 23 [Page 24]

able for unrestricted use and are recorded as received. Contributions in kind are recorded at an amount representing the estimated fair value of goods and services received during the year. Items received of artistic or religious significance for which no value can be readily determined and which are not anticipated to be sold are recorded at nominal value.

Contributions from non-members may not be used to support the Faith and, accordingly, such amounts received are distributed for other humanitarian causes. Contributions restricted by the donor for particular programs and projects, or for property and equipment acquisitions, are earned and reported as revenues when the Assembly has incurred expenses for the purpose specified by the donor. Such amounts received, but not yet earned, are reported as restricted deferred amounts. Estate bequests are recorded when the funds are received.

TAX EXEMPT STATUS The U.S. Treasury Department has held that the National Spiritual

Assembly and all subordinate local spiritual assemblies are exempt from Federal income tax as organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (I.R.C.) of 1986. Accordingly, contributions made to the National Spiritual Assembly and all of its subordinate local spiritual assemblies are deductible by the donors. for Federal income tax purposes as provided by I.R.C. Section 170.

  • Bequests, legacies, devises, transfers,

or gifts to the National Spiritual Assembly or its subordinate local assemblies are deductible for Federal estate and gift tax purposes as provided by LR.C. Sections 2055, 2106, and 2522. INVENTORIES

Inventories of books and special mate rials are valued at average cost. INVESTMENTS

Investments are recorded at market

value. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment are stated at cost. The Assembly computes depreciation of fixed assets over their estimated useful lives using the straight line method. The estimated lives used in computing depreciation are as follows:

ASSET DESCRIPTION/ASSET LIFE

Furniture and Equipment: 5-10 years

Buildings and Improvements: 20-40 years

Baha’i House of Worship: 75 years

uququ’llah (Right of God) is a law revealed by Baha’u’llah in



COMBINING AND COMBINED STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES April 30, 1999 (Projected) and April 30, 1998



the Kitab-i-Aqdas. Obeying the law of Huqtqu’lléh purifies

the material wealth we acquire throughout our lifetime by giving

Santa Monica, CA

back to the Cause of God a portion of that which came from our

Creator.

90402

Dr. Stephen Birkland

Payments of Huququ’llah are deductible for federal income and

estate tax purposes. Checks for Huqiqu’llah should be made

payable to “Baha’i Huququ’llah Trust” and sent directly to one of

the following Trustees:

Arden Hills, MN 55112


Orefield, PA 18069

Dr. Daryush Haghighi

Rocky River, OH 44116

National Bahai Baha’i Publishing Baha'i Combined Total Fund ‘Trust Home April 99 April 98 CHANGES IN UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS Revenues Unrestricted Contributions $17,448,209 $ 0 $ 10,000 $17,458,209 $20,179,076 Estate Bequests 1,061,208 0 0 1,061,208 538,559 Baha’s School Tuition 1,008,683 0 0 1,008,683 958,796 Sale of Books and Materials 829,562 1,425,000 0 2,254,562 2,132,673 Resident Fees 0 0 325,000 325,000 351,706 Other Income 780,205 100,000 0 880,205 435,657 Assets Released From Restriction 100,342 0 0 100,342 625,187 ‘Total Revenues $21,228,209 $ 1,525,000 $ 335,000 $23,088,209 $25,221,654 Expenses Contributions to International Funds. $ 3,058,028 $ 0 $ 0 $ 3,058,028 $ 7,563,526 Education and Teaching Activities 4,966,018 0 0 4,966,018 4,692,972 Properties Operations/Maintenance 2,327,811 150,000 60,000 2,537,811 2,752,912 Cost of Books and Special Materials 291,003 1,064,459 0 1,355,462 1,200,044 General Administration 8,271,917 670,093 375,099 9,317,109 9,017,530 ‘Total Expenses $18,914,777 $ 1,884,552 $ 435,099 $21,234,428 $25,226,984 Other Changes in Unrestricted Net Assets (150,051) 150,051 0 0 0 Increase/(Decrease) in Unrestri Net Assets $ 2,163,381 $ (209,501) $ (100,099) $ 1,853,781 $ (5,330) (CHANGES IN TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS Contributions $ 375,000 $ - $ - $ 375,000 $ 321,266 Investment Income 55,000 0 0 55,000 51,644 Net Assets Released from Restriction (100,342) 0 0 (100,342) (625,187) Increase/(Decrease) in Temporarily Restricted Net Assets $ 329,658 $s - $ - $ 329,658 $ (252,277) Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets $ 2,493,039 $ (209,501) $ (100,099) $ 2,183,439 $ (257,607) Net Assets, Beginning of Year $17,426,887 $ 209,501 $ 235,349 $17,871,737 $18,129,344 NET ASSETS, END OF YEAR $19,919,926 $ - $ 135,250 $20,055,176 $17,871,737 ASSETS Current Assets Cash and Investments $ 3,958,364 $ 116,694 $ 9,378 $ 4,084,436 $ 4,046,286 Due From/(To) Other Funds 1,654,557 (1,654,557) 0 0 0 Accounts and Notes Receivable 144,728 510,844 3,907 659,479 382,620 Inventories 493,165 715,742 0 1,208,907 1,023,087 Other Current Assets 876,844 54,645 0 931,489 643,896 ‘Total Current Assets $ 7,127,658 $ (256,633) $ 13,285 $ 6,884,311 $ 6,095,889 Property & Equipment, Net of Accumulated Depreciation $20,851,249 $ 296,006 $ 336,722 $21,483,977 $21,115,586 TOTAL ASSETS $27,978,907 'S539)373, $ 350,007 $28,368,287 $27,221,475 LiaBiLiries AND NeT Assets Current Liabilities Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities $ 1,155,844 $ 39,373 $ 214,757 $ 1,409,974 $ 1,949,672 Demand Notes and Current Maturities of Long Term Debt 4,480,116 0 0 4,480,116 4,967,130 Other Current Liabilities 87,517 0 0 87,517 66,503 ‘Total Current Liabilities $ 5,723,477 $ 39,373 $ 214,757 $ 5,977,607 S$ 6,983,305 Deferred Compensation 24,957 0 0 24,957 31,243 Long-Term Debt 2,310,547 0 0 2,310,547 2,325,190 ‘Total Liabilities $ 8,058,981 $ 39,373 $ 214,757 $ 8,313,111 $ 9,339,738 Net Assets Unrestricted $18,149,543 $ - $ 135,250 $18,284,793 $16,431,012 ‘Temporarily Restricted 1,770,383 0 0 1,770,383 1,440,725 ‘Total Net Assets $19,919,926 $ 2 $ 135,250 $20,055,176 $17,871,737 ‘TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS $27,978,907 $ 39,373 $ 350,007 $28,368,287 $27,211,475 , < Ee: HUQUQU’LLAH Dr. Amin Banani Mrs. Sally Foo Mrs. Elizabeth Martin

Winnsboro, SC 29180

Note: The Trustees of the Baha’i Huqiqu’llah Trust have directed the Office of the Treasurer to return to the sender any checks it receives for Huqtqu’llah.


page 24 THe American BanA’i ¢ Annuat Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999


[Page 25]

uring the first year of the Four Year Plan, 1996, the National Spiritual Assembly placed a laser beam focus on the issue of race unity, using the statement The Vision of Race Unity: America’s Most Challenging Issue and the two studies entitled Models of Unity as focal points for consultation and community education on this critically important topic. During the second year of the Four Year Plan, 1997, the National Assembly added a second focus, the equality between. women and men, and released a statement on equality titled Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men. Upon the statement’ release, the National Assembly asked the community to study and present it to outside organizations, similar to those presentations and deepening sessions conducted by the community when the Assembly released The Vision of Race Unity. Now, two years later, the Office of Women’s Affairs observes that there is an mediate challenge confronting the Baha'i community. Can the American Baha’{ community carry out the National Assembly’ direction to disseminate and study the statement with the same vigor anid enthusiasm as has been shown for race unity?

The Office of Women’s Affairs was established by the National Assembly to better inform the National

_ Assembly of the activities in the community surrounding the issue of gender equality and to coordinate the various offices, agencies, and institutions of the Faith

' working for the advancement of women. It was surprised to receive calls and letters from many individuals asking if the release of the statement on gender equality meant that the American Baha’{ community was abandoning race unity. Of course, the answer to this question is a resounding “no,” but for some reason the community has experienced confusion. The National Assembly asked the community to focus simultaneously on two principles of the Faith—race unity and gender equality— during the remainder of the Four Year Plan.

Tt appears that the community is not giving sufficient attention to the issue of gender equality. The National Spiritual Assembly continues to believe that the statement Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men receives some attention by the American Baha’i community, but that it lacks a serious study by local spiritual assemblies and individuals, whether alone or in groups. Although there have been some notable efforts to disseminate the statement, to study it, and to put into practice its contents, if we were to rank our efforts thus far we would have to say that we have barely begun the process.

Gender equality affects every human being, male or female, no matter what his or her national origin, culture, class, education, or economic status. Within the Baha’{ community, for example, the demographic report of local spiritual assemblies to the National Spiritual Assembly in 1997 indicated that although women are more likely to be elected to serve on the local spiritual assembly (56% are women), men











Reta rea Una


ightly more likely to hold an officer position. Men comprise 47% of all officers even though they comprise just 44% of all assembly members. Men are more likely to hold the following offices than women: Chair (64%), Vice Chair (58%), and ‘Treasurer (68%). Women are much more likely to be elected Corresponding Secretary (79%) or Recording Secretary (78%). Although statistics are not in yet for 1998, the Office of Assembly Development will be conducting an analyof the same information during the coming year. In addition, anecdotal information tells us that there appears to be a prevalence in the Baha’ community of men as the keynote speakers at presentans to the public. It is also true that the vast majority of teachers of children at Baha’i schools and Feasts are women.

Perhaps one of the major obstacles that prevents us from enthusiastically embracing the principle of equality is that we as a people have not developed the language to discuss the issue. Baha’is have been earnestly discussing and practicing race unity work since the visit of ‘Abdu’l-Baha to America in 1912. We have a much longer, sustained practice in discussing race relations, and we are becoming known in the greater community for our racial amity work. Yet the believers, whether male or female, do not feel comfortable discussing the subject of equality between women and men.

Although growth in this area is slow nationwide, in the past year there were significant activities undertaken in promotion of gender equality.

One of the most significant activities in which the Office of Women’s Affairs participated was arranging in February 1999 with the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Taiwan for a delegation of













legislators, judges, social workers and police from Taipei, Taiwan, to visit New York City to study the United States’ experience of handling domestic violence cases. ‘Taiwan passed its first domestic violence laws in 1998 which are to go into effect in June of 1999. Among the events associated with the delegation’ visits to courts, police departments, and social institutions, were a reception held for the group in which our office participated and a dinner cohosted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of Taiwan and the U.S. National Assembly’ Office of Women’s Affairs. Another notable event was the arranging of a Baha’{ presentation at a hearing on the status of women in Illinois at the President's Commission on the Celebration of Women in American History, held on November 12, 1998, in Washington, DC.

‘The study and practice of gender equality during the year included: the efforts of the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men to train females as speakers and to engage the community in a dialogue to focus attention on the important topic of equality; the Young Women’s Institutes at the Louhelen Baha’i School; and the One Voice Campaign on college campuses across the country sponsored by the National Youth Committee. In March 1999, the National Assembly launched a nationwide campaign to disseminate the statement Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men and to study its contents in the Baha’i community. During the coming year we will collect data from the National Committee for the Equality of ‘Women and Men and inform the community of the results. In addition, the Office of Assembly Development is launching a new local spiritual assembly development module on the topic of equality, titled








Builders of Communities: Fostering the Equality of Women and Men, which should be completed in April 1999.

In June 1999, the Office of Women’s Affairs will be hosting an invitational meeting of women of diverse backgrounds at the Baha'i National Center where papers will be presented on gender equality from the perspective of each person’s cultural background. The purpose of the meeting is to begin a dialog among women. of diverse backgrounds who can make recommendations to the Office of Women’s Affairs for activities in the future.

‘The Office of Women’s Affairs has identified many areas that require urgent attention within the American Baha’{ community with regard to gender equality. ‘There is a need to examine the traditional roles of women and men and to explore Baha’{ concepts of full partnership. Work must be done to raise consciousness about the status of women both within the Baha’f community and in the society-at-large. Communities and individuals need to work to provide safe and loving environments where men’s feelings are encouraged and women’s voices are heard. Men and boys must be encouraged to develop a greater sense of responsibility for and involvement in the issue of the equality of women and men. Baha’is need to develop the skills necessary to eradicate violence against women. And there needs to be a greater appreciation for the sacred roles of motherhood and fatherhood.

‘The Office of Women’s Affairs is limited in the number of activities it can carry out successfully as it currently has only part-time staff. It earnestly desires, however, to see a wide variety of grassroots initiatives in support of the principle of the equality of the sexes either to begin soon or be developed to unprecedented levels where activities are occurring. Local spiritual assemblies, communities and individuals can begin by studying and disseminating the statement Tivo Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men. They also may contact the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men and the Regional Baha’i Councils’ Committees for the Equality of Women and Men to learn about activities in their local areas or to get information about the principle. The Office of Women’s Affairs strongly urges the believers to write to the committees and to its office informing us of their plans and activities.

‘The Office of Women’s Affairs is hopeful that by next Ridvan a signifcant number of activities related to the promotion of the principle of the equality of the sexes will be in full swing and that their momentum will increase as we enter the next century and a new millennium. For, as ‘Abdu’l-Baha has admonished, “/et it be known once more that until woman and man recognize and realize equality, social and political progress here or anywhere will not be possible. For the world of humanity consists of two parts or members: one is woman; the other is man. Until these two members are equal in strength, the oneness of humanity cannot be established, and the happiness and felicity of mankind will not be a reality.”









June 24, 1999

Tne American BanA’i ¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999 page 25 [Page 26]

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE AGENCIES

OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED STATES

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY ADMINISTRATION AND DEVELOPMENT

¢ office consists of two sections: Community Administration and the Office of Assembly Development. Community Administration provides administrative support to the National Spiritual Assembly by offering guidance to local spiritual assembl and individual believers concerning issues of community functioning and the application of Baha’ principles and laws. The Office of Assembly Development resources, training, and analysis it local spiritual assemblies in their development. These resources are also available to assist Regional Baha’i Councils, Regional ‘Training Institutes, and other Institutions working to aid assemblies in their maturation.

COMMUNITY ADMINISTRATION










Gas Administration faces an ongoing challenge to provide timely responses to the thousands of inquirie: that it receives each year by mail, telephone, and e-mail. This year the task was made especially difficult. when the National Center’s computer servers failed, seriously hampering Community Administration’s ability to access needed records over a three-month period. In turn, this led to a backlog in correspondence that is still being addressed. The primary task ~— of Administration in the coming year will be to eliminate this backlog without compromising the standard of excellence that must characterize its work on behalf of the National Assembly. The friends can assist with this by turning to the guidance that is readily available to them on the local level before writing or calling the National Spiritual Assembly. For example, it is not unusual for Community Administration to receive a request for guidance that has already been provided in Developing Distinctive — Babd’t Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies simply because the writer or caller felt that it would be easier to obtain such guidance by contacting the office or because they had not thought to contact their own or a nearby local spiritual assembly first. Local spiritual assemblies can assist by taking the time to educate the friends in their communities about the various laws of the Faith that are binding upon them at this time, answering their questions, and fostering a spirit of genuine love and concern for each member of their community. If assemblies will nurture such an environment in





SECRETARIAT

their communities, drawing upon the resources of the Auxiliary Board members and their assistants, whenever possible, the nds will turn to them with respect and confidence, and seek their guidance before choosing to write or call the Baha’{ National Center.

OFFICE OF ASSEMBLY DEVELOPMENT


AS in past years, the development of local spiritual assemblies has been the central focus of the work of the Office of Assembly Development. The office has devoted itself to producing training materials for assemblies, such as Developing Distinctive Baba’t Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies and the new and revised modules, conducting training sessions at Baha’i schools and area gatherings of assemblies known as forums, and hosting Weekend Visits of local spiritual assemblies to the Baha’i National Center.

Working from a base of ten modules developed a decade ago, the office has produced six new and revised modules. ‘The titles of these workshops are: A Sense of Partnership: The Individual and the Local Spiritual Assembly (new); Channels of Divine Guidance: The Spiritual Nature of the Local Assembly (revised); Channels of Divine Guidance: Consultation Part — One: Developing the Requisites of Consultation (revised and expanded); Channels of Divine Guidance: Consultation Part Two: Consulting in Unity and Harmony (revised and expanded); Builders of Communi Stress Management and the Babd’i Community (revised); and Loving Shepherds of the Multitudes: The Application of Spiritual and Administrative — Principles (revised). Additional workshops that will be avail





able in the coming year include: Builders of

Communities: Fostering Racial Unity; Builders of Communities: Fostering the Partnership of Women and Men; and Developing a Stronger Sense of Community.

In the coming year, a major challenge will be both to extend the range of training topics available to local spiritual assemblies and to promote their usage by a wider number of assemblies. Many local spiritual assemblies have never participated in a module workshop, and when they do participate they usually take only one or two. Efforts will be made to increase both the number of assemblies participating and the number of modules they take. Local spiritual assemblies are encouraged to use the services of trained Assembly Development representatives, where available, as module facilitators. The representatives received updated training on the facilitation of the new modules, and they receive constant feedback and updates to assist their performance. In addition, evaluation forms from module presentations are reviewed for feedback on the effectiveness of content and quality of presenter skills.


Another challenge will be to find a way to conduct more Assembly Development forums in areas where there are large concentrations of assemblies. The forums have been well-received wherever they have been presented, with assembli commenting on the practical information they have gained from participating them. But the staff and resources of the Office of Assembly Development are limited, making it difficult for the office to schedule and conduct as many forums asit would like. Assistance has been sought from the Regional Baha’i Councils, however, and it is hoped that ongoing collaboration between the office and the Councils will result in more and more assemblies having the opportunity to partake in a forum.

Last year, a number of assemblies participated in several of the Weekend Visit programs to the Baha’i National Center, where they had the opportunity to vis with the National Spiritual Assembly, hear from its members and agencies about the progress of the Four Year Plan, share their concerns, and develop a deeper appreciation for and understanding of the various offices at the Baha’{ National C The opportunity exists in the coming year for more assemblies to participate in this program, and it will be another challenge of the Office of Assembly Development to ensure that each assembly is aware of how it can take advantage of this valuable and inspirational experience.









OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY— CONVENTIONS

| Pas Conventions Office, staffed by one person and operating within the Office of the Secretary, plans and coordinates the National Convention; serves liaison to ist the Regional Baha’ Councils with their daily work; coordinates semi-annual briefings for the National Spiritual Assembly and the Regional Baha’i Councils; maintains a review process of the number of eligible voters in each electoral unit; prepares recommendations for boundary changes to ensure equitable apportionment of delegates, as well as educating the Amet Baha'i community on the purpose and principles of reapportionment; and serves as assistant to the Office of Women’s Affairs

Last year the office planned and coordinated the 89th National Convention and planned the 90th National Convention. It organized the mailing of the election call to all adult believers eligible to vote at the Unit Conventions and assisted the Regional Baha’{ Councils in preparing








logi and educational materials and in arranging for 167 Unit Conventions. Following the Unit Conventions, this office processed tellers’ and secretaries reports and conveyed Unit Convention recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly. Other responsibilities cluded the coordination of the work of the Redistricting Task Force which compiled data about the distribution of Baha’f population and made recommendations to the National Spiritual Assembly regarding electoral unit boundaries.

The 91st National Convention, which will fall in the upcoming year, marks the end of the Four Year Plan. In its 1996 Ridvan Message the Universal House of Justice indicated that at Ridvan 2000, “the Baha’i world will look back in appreciation at the extraordinary developments and dazzling achievements that will have distinguished the annals of the Cause of Bahé’u'llsh during that eventful period,” a period which ‘Abdu’l-Baha called the “century of light.” The 91st National Convention will be open to all who wish to attend and will require special arrangements and much time to plan.

A national redistricting will be done with the dual goals of aligning electoral unit boundaries with the boundaries of regions served by the Regional Bahs’ Councils and of creating electoral units that provide for equitable representation of voters for each of 171 delegates to be elected. The new electoral units are to be in place for the Unit Conventions to be held in October of 2000.

‘The Conventions Office’s work in ssisting the Regional Baha’i Councils creased steadily in volume over the past year. The office organized incoming and outgoing communications with the Regional Baha’ Councils and prepared monthly reports for the National Spiritual Assembly regarding the Councils’ communications. It coordinated two meetings for the National Spiritual Assembly and members of the Regional Baha’{ Council It assisted the Councils in preparing logistical and educational materials and in arrangements for 167 Unit Conventions as well as assisting the Councils in preparations for their own elections to be held on May 23, 1999. It is likely that the expectation of the Regional Bah Councils coming to Wilmette for semiannual briefings will be realized. Such briefings will have a significant impact upon the work of this office.

In addition to daily support to the Office of Women’s Affairs, the Conventions Office will assist that office to plan and host an upcoming conference in June for nearly fifty participants. It also will compile the papers presented at the conference for the future use of the Office of Women’s Affairs. It is anticipated that these activities, as well as the upcoming video on the equality of women and men, will increase significantly the workload of the Conventions Office.





















page 26

Te American BanA’i ¢ ANNuAL Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 27]

BAHA'I ENCYCLOPEDIA PROJECT

© primary assignment of the ‘ditorial Board for the Baha’i Encyclopedia Project is to compile a comprehensive, authoritative, and easy-to-use encyclopedic reference work on the Bah: Faith for Baha'is, the media, studer scholars, diplomats, and others.

In the past year the Editorial Board continued a twofold process of (1) reassessing and enlarging the pool of articles in hand with the goal of bringing a spectrum of les to editorial conclusion and (2) preparing to publish interim volumes. At its June 1998 meeting, the Editorial Board gave particulai








tions containing articles on important aspects of the Baha’i Faith approved for possible publication in A Short Encyclopedia of the Babd’i Faith. Work on a selection of articles and on the format for an interim series is proceeding. The editors have also commissioned a number of new articles and worked with authors on revising draft articles. The editorial office continued to develop its database and to maintain contact with contributors throughout the world. In addition to working on the Encyclopedia, the three members of the editorial team provided human resource support to the Wilmette Institute.

The Editorial Board anticipates major progress in the coming year toward the goal of publishing interim volumes and gradual progress toward the compilation of a Baha'i Encyclopedia.



PERSIAN-AMERICAN AFFAIRS

NATIONAL PERSIANAMERICAN AFFAIRS OFFICE

n addition to managing the executive

functions of the National PersianAmerican Affairs Task Force, the Office undertakes various activities to help promote the integration of Baha’is of Iranian descent and assists various Baha’i adr trative agencies in matters related to Iran.

‘The activities of the Office have included: sending the Persian translation of several press releases about the persecution of Baha’is in Iran to Persian language media outlets in the U.S.; supporting the Friends of Persian Culture Association and organizing its eighth annual conference; supporting the publication of BiYad-i Diist (In Memory of the Friend), a 206-page tribute in Persian to the Hand of the Cause of God Abu’l-Qisim Faizi; helping to translate the Ridvan 155 message of the Universal House of Justice and six other messages from the Baha’i World Center; translating Feast letters and other messages of the National Spiritual Assembly; publishing the bilingual quar







terly Tabernade of Unity; preparing the Persian pages of The American Bahi’t, coordinating the work of the Persian Reviewing Panel; helping to organize the Persian session of ‘Irfin Colloquia; conducting an intensive Persian language course in conjunction with the residential session of the Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization program of the Wilmette I and assisting the Institute for Baha'i Studies and the Wilmette Institute.

NATIONAL PERSIANAMERICAN AFFAIRS TASK FORCE









Persian-American rce is charged with s of the more than ten thousand Baha'is of Iranian origin in the United States in support of the goals of the community, as directed by the Universal House of Justice in its Ridvin 153 message to North America.

‘The challenge faced by the Task Force is the diversity of circumstances and backgrounds of the Persian-American members of the U.S. Baha'i community. They range from longtime residents of this country or those born or raised here to several hundred newly arrived believers each year. An added complication is the varying level of deepening these friends have.

‘The ‘Task Force used the directives of the Universal House of Justice in its message to Iranian Baha’is throughout the world, dated B.E. 154, as guidance for efforts to revitalize and activate the Baha of Persian descent. This message exhorted them to demonstrate, in every aspect of their lives, the high ideals of the Baha’ Faith; to pay attention to the spiritual education of children and youth; to teach the F in the name of their brothers and sisters in Iran; and to teach their children the Persian language. To accomplish this goal, the National Spiritual Assembly appointed sixteen Area Task Forces. It also organized meetings with Baha'is of Persian background in seven areas of concentration of Persian-American Baha’is to discuss the messages of the Supreme Institution and to identify ways in which the friends could better serve the goals of the Four Year Plan. The National ‘Task Force disseminated hundreds of copies of the B.E. 154 message of the Universal House of Justice, in Persian and English, along with study guides. The Area Task Forces also were asked to organize small gatherings of several families each in different parts of their areas for the study of the messages. Additionally in each area, the National ‘Task Force met with representatives of local spiritual assemblies in order to explore ways in which collaboration could lead to the activation of the PersianAmerican friends. According to reports received from Area ‘Task Forces, numerous meetings, seminars, and workshops were organized around the country for studying the messages and developing personal action plans.

‘The National Task Force feels that it needs to obtain data more reliable than anecdotal reports about the involvement and services of Persian-American mem Alpe National Affairs Task

increasing the act














bers of the community. Therefore, the future plans of the Task Force include:

a) conducting surveys to gather more reliable information;

b) focusing programs and activities on various aspects of Baha’i life, such as honesty and trustworthiness, the rights of women and children, race unity, chastity and morality, obedience to Baha’{ institutions and to civil authority, spiritual rejuvenation, intergenerational issues, and biculturalism; and

©) preparing the Area ‘Task Forces for ultimate transfer to the jurisdiction of the Regional Baha’i Councils, as directed by the Nati piritual Assembly.




OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND REVIEW

RS Research and Review Office, established in 1989, has a staff of two and provides a variety of services to the National Spiritual Assembly. It assists Baha'i agencies and individuals with some of their research needs as well as coordinates the prepublication review of all manuscripts and special materials with Baha’i content. It collects statistics for the National Spiritual Assembly's report to the Universal House of Justice and prepares other reports as assigned. It assembles, edits and publishes the annual report of the National Spiritual Assembly. It is the host office of the Institute for Baha’i Studies, which assists Baha’i and nonBaha’i academics with their Baha’/-related research and sponsors small scholarly conferences and seminars. It also is the host of the Wilmette Institute, which gives courses on aspects of the Baha’ Faith. Finally, it cooperates closely and collaborates with the Encyclopedia Project, World Order magazine, the National Baha’i Archives, the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund and the Association for Baha'i Studies. ‘The unexpected focus of the past year was the letter-writing campaign to protest the Iranian government’ attempt to close the Baha’i Institute for Higher Education. Part of the campaign was coordinated by the Research Office, which made an emergency appeal for the e-mail addresses of Baha'is who teach at universities. This activity resulted in the creation of a database of about 250 Baha'i academics. By the end of three months, efforts had been reported on 176 college and university campuses; eighty Presidents or deans of professional schools had been asked to write letters of protest; five faculty senates and three student senates had passed resolutions condemning the attack on the Open University; thirty-nine newspaper articles had appeared about the attack; twelve petition drives had collected well over a thousand signatures; and several very successful public meetings and candlelight vigils had been held, attracting attendance of or attention from prominent non-Baha’is. Last year, the Research Office staff sent a total of 7,191 outgoing communications, mostly attributable to the Wilmette Institute’s distance-education courses and








the flow of communication necessitated by the Open University campaign. It completed prepublication reviews on 126 literature items and on 205 special materials items. A decrease in audiocassettes needing review was particularly noticeable, as was the generally higher quality of such items submitted. Prepublication review was completed in a more timely manner most of the year, and a necessary policy was established of focusing on special written reports and other writing projects twice a year (March and August), leaving items for review to accumulate at those




times. Efforts to interact with academics continued. Baha'is attended two meetings of

the Cooperative Congregational Survey project, helping to plan a survey of 30,000, religious congregations in the United States early in the year 2000. The Research Office assisted in creating a Baha'i program and book display at the American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature annual meeting, attended by 8,000 professors and students of religious studies. Letters were written to correct errors about the Baha’i Faith in two publications. A review of a Baha’ historical work was submitted to Nova Religio, a professional journal. A nonBaha’ filmmaker was given assistance in his efforts to create a documentary video about the Faith.

Research on the Baha'i Faith by Baha'is was also fostered in that Baha’is writing books, articles, theses, and college papers on Baha'i topics received assistance. The Office initiated plans for a conference on Baha’ spiritual life and considerable support was provided to the ‘Irfin Colloquia, including the creation and publication of the program booklets. The Office provided support for the Religious Studies Seminar meeting at the annual Association for Baha’i Studies conference. In addition, about twelve In Memoriam articles for The Baba’t World series were collected and sent to Haifa, and the Research Office’s Library was organized with most of its books entered into a computer database.

Collaboration with other agencies of the Faith continued. Research Office staff served on committees or editorial boards of the Association for Baha’i Studies, the Journal of Babii Studies, World Order, the Baha’i Encyclopedia Project, the Institute for Baha'i Studies and the Wilmette Institute.

The Research Office recognizes that a lack of human resources is a persistent issue. In 1998-99, shortness of staff prevented the Institute for Baha'i Studies from sponsoring any conferences and limited the number of letters that could be written to non-Baha’i authors correcting errors in their works. It is hoped that during the coming year staff support can be increased to take advantage of the opportunity to network people with similar research interests and foster more specialized study of the Faith; to write letters to the authors of ten to twelve publications correcting erroneous information about the Faith; and to collaboration with nonBaha'i researchers through __ the Cooperative Congregational Survey Project and the American Academy of Religion néeds to be continued.









June 24,1999 = Tne AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Anyuat Rerort 1999 _ page 27 [Page 28]


NATIONAL TEACHING COMMITTEE

he national teaching plan encompasses activities at the national, regional and local levels. oe are interlocking and mutually reinfor ‘Together they provide a means for eartlaeae the ener; friends in their individu






action. arly results show that we have begun h beyond the traditional boundaries of friendship and kinship networks . We are also establishing new emerging patterns of pean life that are more “seeker ” The Baha’i community has support for the ational initiative, as evidenced by the level of local community activity in direct support of the campaign. Moreover, the community as a whole is highly active and committed to teaching. In sum, we have vast potential for growth ed upon our own level of teaching activity and our to attract people to the Faith. This report will deal with specific chievements and challenges.

THE MEDIA INITIATIVE











SUMMARY OF RESULTS

ince the national media campaign

began last March, we have received more than twelve thousand phone calls on the 1-800-22-UNITE line. We have had about ten thousand non-Baha’i user sessions on the web site which have yielded about seven hundred inquiries for information.

We also estimate some tens of thousands who have attended locally organized events. In some cases we know of enrollments as a direct result, but we do not yet have a firm count. A survey to determine this is now under way.

We continue to get information that indicates a high degree of support and continued enthusiasm about the national teaching plan. About 80% of communities have made and executed plans in conjunction with the campaign.

Two things are clear from these results. First, the aggregate response from non-Baha’is has been very good. This is an encouraging result considering the limited extent of the broadcasts and the limited life of the campaign to date.

‘The second major result of the campaign has been the degree to which the friends in general have responded to it and undertaken local teaching and community activities. There is clearly a new level of enthusiasm about teaching. The types of activities show attention to the guidance from the Universal House of Justice which prescribes a wide array of


TEACHING

specific actions. This demonstrates an creasing capacity to accommodate a variety of necessary and complementary initiatives. Several months ago a survey was taken to determine the nature and extent of local activities related to the national campaign. Here are some data from the surv

  • Communities sponsoring race unity

events of some kind: 79%

  • Communities sponsoring Race Unity

Day: 68%

  • Neighborhood race unity dialogue: 36%
  • Healing Racism Institute: 20%
  • Public meeting(s): 66%
  • Campaign to promote the national

broadcasts: 77%

  • Campaign to promote local broadcasts:

66%

+ Other types of events: 58%

+ Collaboration with non-Baha’i organizations on race issues: 68%

A KNOWLEDGE-BASED PROCESS

For nearly three years the National Teaching Committee and others have been working together to find effective ways of addressing audiences with the Baha’i Faith using the media. This process has featured systematic analysis of potentia crafting of high-qu underwent: suc Baha’ viewers.

This approach is different in sign cant ways from the activity conventionally referred to as proclamation. The key objective in proclamation, as historically practiced, has been to impart information about the Faith to large numbers of people. The size of the audience has been the measure of effectiveness. The concept of audience has been undifferentiated; it has been viewed as a “mass.” The informational content has been approached from a Baha’i perspective only and conveyed to an audience for its edification.

There are important distinctions between “old-style” proclamation and the current efforts. Audiences are more precisely defined. We forgo the fanciful idea of “mass” as it relates to audience in favor of the more useful concept of distinctive segments with differentiated interests. We rely more heavily on research to help define these segments. We are interested initially in those that appear to be most likely to be responsive to a religious alternative like the Baha’s Faith. We use a disciplined process to generate messages for targeted audiences. Programming content addresses the needs of audiences as defined by them, and not by us. We have built in systematic audience feedback mechanisms through focus groups and on-line surveys to keep the effort focused on the intended audience. Effectiveness, therefore, is measured by response and not by reach. If there is no response, there is arguably no communication.

FOCUS GROUP TESTS

‘This process of research and testing











ive tests acy non










has yielded a great deal of information about how to effectively communicate the Message to people who, for the most

‘part, are hearing about the Faith for the

first time. ndamentally the issue is one of s sitivity to our audience. The first goal is not so much to impart specific informato build trust.

published one article





tions for teaching of all kinds. We are now growing in confidence about some basic points, which are worth reviewing here.

There can be a great deal of suspicion and cynicism about the Faith, especially on first hearing about it. The tendency on the part of viewers is to want to define the Faith as a cult, so we have to take great pains to establish that s not. Among the ways we do this are to show people in the videos who are clearly “mainstream,” in that they appear happy, balanced, involved in society, kind to their children, and so on.

There is a tendency to react against anything perceived as “foreign,” which is as an indication of a cult, or at the very least as an indication that the Faith is not for “regular” people.

People are not nearly as interested in what we say as in what we do. We have to show our principles in action. Not to do this is to invite skepticism and scorn. At the same time, we cannot come across as having an attitude of superiority to others, as if we have actually solved our problems, whether about race, spi tuality, or anything else. What comes across well is to present ourselves as pe ple who struggle to implement high ideals, and who have achieved promising results, but not total success.

We have to demonstrate that we are actively involved in the world around us, not isolated from others. In particular, it is essential to show that we do not consider the Faith as superior to other religions, nor Baha’is as morally superior to other people. Presentations should give a clear sense of the essentially spi tual nature of our religion, even when addressing “social” issues.

We need to offer a clear sense of the participatory nature of the Faith, emphasizing its democratic elements and the full involvement of the members in all activities. People seem to be very intrigued by our lack of a clergy.

The sense should be conveyed, within acceptable limits, that there is room for personal choice and opportunity for diversity and differences. This helps to portray us as a progressive, accepting and nonjugdmental religion.

It must be completely clear that we are a community of faith and that we worship God in ways that are recognizable and attractive to religious people.

It is essential to emphasize the commitment to children, marriage, and family life. The primary audience is women, and we have to connect with





















these issues in order to attract them.

Whenever possible, it is important to offer testimonials of respected non-Baha’is who acknowledge and appreciate our contributions to society.

We have to avoid the use of parochial language, including any expressions that might not be understood by nonbelievers. Some of these expressions are obvious; others are less so but can be seen to have a great effect.

We need to express that the Baha’i community has joy and to be a member is a happy experience. People want to be part of a group that is happy and welcoming.

These are among the more important lessons. Fundamentally the issue is sensitivity to our audience.

Over the course of the near future we may very well observe the emergence of ant group of people who are friends of the Faith. These people will be quite aware of us, will understand and appreciate our principles, and will often be closely involved in our activities. Yet they may not become believers right away. Our present tendency is to want people to accept the Faith quickly, and we often have little patience for those who fail to do so within what we consider to be a “reasonable” period of time. It will be a challenge for us to sincerely value the contributions of those who are attracted to our community, welcome sociation with them, and not display too great anxiety over their conversion.

PROFILE OF THE RESPONDENTS

For the first few months of the campaign, our primary means of learning about the respondents were: focus group tests; profiling some of the callers who responded to the broadcasts in June 1997 in Atlanta; analysis of incoming calls and seeker addresses showing geographic distributions; random surveys of local communities to obtain more information about the seekers; and analysis of seeker names to determine gender. Seekers often indicated their own race as well, when they left messages on the phone system.

We have now added two new means of learning about our audience. One is an on-line survey of users who visit our public web site. The other is an on-line survey of callers to 1-800-22-UNITE.

In the past we have reported some of the main characteristics of those who indicated interest in the Faith after having seen The Power of Race Unity and videos on other themes. They have tended to be: women (60% or more); primarily baby-boomers aged 33 to 52; racially diverse, but mainly AfricanAmerican and white; parents; better educated (college or higher); concentrated in the caring professions (education, health, ete.); and both urban and suburban.

These characteristics are a mirror image of the Baha’i community itself.

The web survey has added some important new information. Some of the

















page 28 THe American BanA’i * Annuat Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999, [Page 29]

results are quite interesting. For example:

  • 47% of non-Baha’is say that they

first heard of the Faith through some form of media, as compared with 5% of the general Baha’f community.

  • 41% of non-Baha’is say that they

ave known of the Faith for one month or less; and 53% for six months or I

° 2% of non-Baha’is describe themeekers for spiritual truth; 49% nbers of a faith community, and are not.

  • Only 16% of non-Baha’is indicate

that they are satisfied with their current religious pra

© Although mainly baby-boomer-aged, there are ny users who are col





selves a







predominate (52%), which is very icant given that general use of Internet is only 40% by women.

¢ Non-E f users tend to be well educated and indicate high levels of involvement in so

‘These data make for interesting comparisons with the current Baha'i membership.

The advertisements on the Internet conducted last June yielded data tha allowed us to measure the exact number of people who inquired for more information. a proportion of those who. were exposed to the Faith. The Yahoo! ads received response at a rate of 0.5% of those who saw them. the s as the industry standard. Bas on this, we believe that it is reasonable to assume that about 2,400,000 individuals have been exposed to the M at least once during the past y

SURVEY OF PHONE RESPONDENTS

We have also begun to survey people who called the 800 phone line, starting with those who called during the month of October. We have received 10% response to our survey of about 800 individuals. From this a few things are worth mentioning. Thirteen percent of the respondents reported that they have already attended a Baha'i meeting since calling. Fifteen percent reported that they were satisfied with their current religious practice; 46% are members of a faith community and 54% are not.

Most had received their requested literature at the time of the survey, but nearly half of those who asked for phone calls had not received them yet. We clearly need to be more vigilant in ensuring local follow-up. The present system allows us to tell whether local communities are checking their phonemail boxes; however, we do not know how effectively believers are dealing with the calls once they are downloaded. This will require more study and refinement.

The profile of the seekers is very similar to that of the non-Baha’i visitors to our web site, including the relatively high number of youth respondents. This is quite significant, since youth are underrepresented in our current membership. In addition, the proportion of ethnic minorities, singles, and divorced people is higher than in the Baha’f community.

f the




| iss








This is exa


ame





ear.











we

Bron (aE by

ee, 4H


CARRY THE MESSAGE OF BAHA'U’LLAH TO THE AMERICAN NATION

¢ National Media Initiative

¢ Regional and Local Initiatives

¢ Individual Initiatives

DOUBLE THE NUMBER OF ACTIVE

BELIEVERS

¢ Training Institutes

© Devotional Gatherings

  • Daily Prayer

¢ Core Curriculum /Fundamental Verities

¢ Ruhi Institutes

FOSTER THE MATURITY OF THE INSTITUTIONS AND COMMUNITY ° ¢ Promote Race Unity ¢ Promote Equality of Women and Men ¢ Social and Economic Development


FUTURE MEDIA EFFORTS

We bi ing thirty- and sixty-second Is on Black ision starting in



‘comme Entertainment Tele December. These have done very well in getting respo:

We are working with NSA agencies




and other believers to continue the development of the national med tiative. Here is


ia some other ities.



upcoming media-related ac

  • We should have at least three new

broadcast-quality tapes available . by spring of 1999. We are now researching availability on national channels, and


we will also release tapes for local use. In addition, we will have a new series of thirty- and sixty-second commercials. ‘The three new half-hour tapes will be one targeting Christian audiences, entitled We Are One; The Power of Prayer; and Two Wings of a Bird. A tape address ing indigenous peoples and an introductory tape in Spanish will be done in 1999. Each of the themes will have complementary training and dialogue materials, such as those produced for The Power of Race Unity. We have already consulted with the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men about materials it will publish in conjunction with the women’s video.

¢ Our seeker capture and distribution system is now greatly improved. A database has been created that will allow us to generate automatic reports to local communities, the Baha’i Distribution








Service and the Regional Baha’i Councils. This will contain all pertinent information on seekers, tracked by a wide range of data fields, and a system for monitoring follow-up efforts ¢ The new 800 phone system is now operating and still includes routing to local communities, but at far less cost.

  • The Office of Public Information

(OPI) is developing a plan to target the









mainstream media by presenting newsworthy items for press coverage.

  • We are interested in adapting cur


rent mate! teractive educational tools for the Internet. In the not-toodistant future we would like to have courses on the Faith, and on various specific aspects of the Faith, available to non-Baha’is in this format. We developing this with some friends who have professional experience in this field.

  • The Baha’i Publishing Trust i:

developing its plan for getting Baha’s literature into the retail book trade. The National Teaching Committee has been and will continue to be intimately involved in this process.

  • ° We are also working with the

Regional Baha’f Councils to develop test projects in specific areas where media experiments be done in conjunction with organized teaching campaigns.

© We hope that media efforts will be valuable not only for generating response, but also for stimulating local






are


snow



activity. At this point about 85% of the communities on the system are checking regularly for seeker information. We also send regular statistical information to the Regional Councils, who have agreed to help ensure quality follow-up.

  • We also hope to ned

broadcast. schedule beginn the spring and continuing through the final year of the Plan.

COSTS FOR RESPONSE

One of the issues about which we have been most concerned is that med efforts yield response at a sustainable rate in terms of the funds invested. Since the time of the first broadcasts in Adanta we have steadily decreased the average cost for each response from about $50 per inquiry to around $10. Recent tests have sometimes been less efficient and sometimes more efficient than the $10 rate. We hope to improve still more over the course of time, which will necessitate a variety of new experiments with content, format, channels, times, and so on, as well as with new medi

The most efficient medium that we have been able to track so far has been the Internet site, which steadily yields a high number of non-Bahd’i user sions and inquiries. The ads on Yahoo! in June yielded about one inquiry for every $8 spent. This means requests for more literature or a phone call, not just visiting the site. As we improv






















our system for tracking and surveying seeker response, we should be able to glean ii hts that will help us to achieve greater and greater efficienci

SURVEYS OF THE BAHA'IS We reported some of the results from s of the Baha’i community, which began last year. A few more points are worth summarizing.

‘The rate of reported individual teachng activity is high, with 76% reporting that they teach the Faith to friends acquaintances at least once per week. Fifty percent teach the Faith to colleagues at work at least once per week; 34% teach strangers at least once per week; and 28% teach relatives at least once per week. Forty-four percent report that they have hosted a fire: within the past year; 36% say that they have done so four times or more. Forty percent state that they taken training institute cou to help make them more effective teachers.

Baha’fs are very optimistic about the prospects for growth in the near term. Eighty-one percent report optimism, and only 7% are pes ic. They also believe that other believers are optimistic, but somewhat less so than themselves. Seventy-two percent rate the national media campaign as either good or excellent, with only 2% rating it as poor. The believers have a high opinion of the Baha’i administrative institu and those who serve on them. In particular, 61%: agreed that the institutions are good at supporting individual initiative, while only 16% disagreed. Seventy-six percent feel that their own local communities take seriously the















ide












June 24, 1999. Tue American BanA‘i ¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999

page 29 [Page 30]

responsibility to teach the Faith.

Membership in the Bahd’i Faith appears to have a highly positive impact on social activism. Thirty percent of believers report that they were involved in one or more kinds of activities for social change before enrolling in the Faith (these include education, human rights, women, environment, etc.); and 58% report that have become involved in such activities since becoming Baha’

The survey confirms that we have tended to draw our membership from the more educated and socially progressive elements of society. They fit the same profile as those who are responding to the media campaign.

_ Upcoming surveys will explore these ues: interracial contacts and friendhips; a study of factors affecting fund contributions; individual involvement and faction with Baha’i community life; related to the advancement of women; volunteerism and activism; minority participation in community life; and religious practices, such as prayer, deepening, and so on.

A system has been put in place to survey automatically new believers on issues related to their experiences in

is. The survey question














becoming: Baha'is. naire has been drafted and will be implemented soon. Results will help us to monitor the people who are actually enrolling as well as the factors that led to their conversion.

INDIVIDUAL TEACHING PATTERNS

It is often said that relatively low enrollment figures in recent years are evidence that the believers don’t teach the Faith. Our work so far suggests a complex, but hopeful, reality.

The evidence that we have in hand indicates that enthusiasm, activism, and engagement are not insurmountable obstacles. Training that addresses skill and not only motivation, would appear to be in order.

It is important to state once again that the real value of the media effort is to increase opportunities for individual teaching. There are natural limits to individual activities, no matter how dedicated our teachers are. One possible means of aiding those who wish to teach would be to engage seekers on a large scale and give them the opportunity to get in contact with the friends. We also believe that greater general awareness of the Faith will lead to more teaching opportunities and result in higher growth.

MEDIA WITHIN THE

NATIONAL TEACHING PLAN

The strategies of the Four Year Plan are interlocking and interactive. No single factor is sufficient for victory. The stream of seekers will accelerate. Meeting their expectations, however, will require broader engagement by all of us in the individual, community, and institutional development objectives of this Plan.

NATIONAL LEVEL

The activities at the national level include the development of new materials












for the media and of training programs for specific needs, such as public information and Core Curriculum; ongoing research and testing with audiences and capture and distribution of seeker information; monitoring activities and developments within the Baha’i community; the provision of strategic advice to various institutions; and the communication of important news to the community.

REGIONAL PLANS Regional plans were described by the Universal House of Justice as ccenprising these strategi 1, Development of human resoure 2. Promotion of individual teaching 3. Launching of campaigns of vari kinds 4. Strengthening of local communities (LSAs in particular) 5. Establishment of local and regional projects Assisting with traveling teachers and homefront pioneers 7. Distribution of literature and audiovisual materials 8. Holding of conferences /e hope that such activities will be tailored to directly support the national themes and media campaign. For example, Regional Baha’i Councils can be quite helpful in encouraging local usage of the 800 number, monitoring local follow-up with seekers, incré g attention to relevant themes such as race unity and advancement of women, and the development of training programs that address relevant skills.

LOCAL ACTIVITIES

Activities at the national and regional levels should foster the emergence of sustained patterns of activities at the local level, featuring local use of media materials and other teaching and proclamation tools; a wide array of teaching activities, such as firesides, public talks, and campus activities; regular devotional gatherings; training and deepening; effective functioning of local spiritual assemblies; increasing individual participation in community life and teaching; and a broad foundation of community life, including Nineteen Day Feasts, social functions, youth and children's programs, service projects, and u of the arts, adapted in each community according to local resources.





















ACHIEVEMENTS AND CHALLENGES

ACHIEVEMENTS WITHIN THE BAHA'I COMMUNITY

he tempo of teaching, as indicated

by locally organized activities, has elerated notably, and there an increase in enthusiasm and optimism about prospects for growth. National, regional and local teaching approaches are more systematic and complementary. We have widened the range of activities, through proclamation, public relations, devotional meetings, and other activities, producing more harmonious patterns that are also “seekerfriendly.” Local efforts at community building are lending vitality to this accelerating process. This is shown in


recent surveys of the community.

ACHIEVEMENTS IN MEDIA OUTREACH

‘The media responses and the surveys confirm these points: we are attracting inquiries at a significant rate. The results are only a prelude to the vast potential before us. The audience we have reached is the right one. They describe themselves as seekers and as dissatisfied with their current practices. They fit the profile of those who, according to all existing research, are the ones most likely to conider an alternative religion such as ours. They also fit the profile of our historic constituency—those who have actually enrolled in the Faith over the past generation or more.

Media is an efficient means for going beyond the circle of friendship and kinip networks. It can vastly enhance teaching opportunities by bringing others within our circle who might never be reached otherwise, due to the natural limitations on individual effort.

‘There is no such thing as a mass audience. In reality there are many audiences, only some of whom are susceptible to the Baha’i message at any point in time. These people can be identified, effective messages can be crafted, and predictable response can be generated, through a systematic process of experimentation and_ refinement. Although it is but one element among many that are necessary to achieve entry by troops, use of the media is indis~ pensable if we are serious about this goal.





AMONG THE CHALLENGES

First and foremost is the need to swell the ranks of seekers and to provide for them the gift of teaching. This is not only a function of the media. Special attention must be given to training programs designed to produce more effective teachers and better planners and administrators. We must align these training programs more closely with national, regional, and local objectives, so that the friends can effectively apply their unparalleled enthusiasm.

Community development and the strengthening of local spiritual as blies are prerequisites for sustainable growth. The need for enriched experience of community drives the quest of seekers. There is no religious fulfillment beyond community. In particular, we have the challenge of dealing with the diversity of backgrounds and temperaments that seekers will represent.

We must communicate the plan to the Bal Our experience indicates that while enthusiasm for the media campaign remains high, there is very little real appreciation of the process by which the campaign was developed, nor of the assessment of opportunities that led to its adoption as part of the national plan. Moreover, there is little awareness of how the media efforts complement regional and local efforts. We are publishing articles in every edition of The American Baha'i and will be publishing a video soon. But real progress in this respect will require intelligent advocacy of the plan on the part of all institutions.

We will continue to focus on race



sem








unity and on the advancement of gender equality. The Faith’s dedication to interracial unity has been the centerpiece of the American Four Year Plan. A sustained effort has been made to bring our views on racial harmony before a wider audience and much more will be done in the years ahead. In the United States all minorities remain underrepresented within our active Baha’f family. At this moment every racial minority is present within our active core in a smaller proportion than in the population at large. This deficiency cannot be allowed to persist, for it strikes at the heart of our credibility as a community. It must be vigorously addressed in the remainder of this Plan and beyond.

As already stated, we will soon add a component to our national outreach that addresses women’s issues. This will be complemented by educational and other materials for use at the regional and local levels. Again, the importance of women to the growth and development of the community cannot be overstated. Women are the majority of our active membership, they are the majority of our new enrollments, and they are the majority of our seekers. Their needs must be met if we expect to move forward.

The two themes of race unity and advancement of women will long stand as pillars of our strategy. Needless to say, success in all of the above categories will depend upon an unprecedented degree of institutional unity. We must all be determined to make unity a reality, from which all future blessings will flow.

CONCLUSION




if successive waves over the next year, the national teaching campaign will impact the fundamental dynamics of community development and activism. It create upwelling response from specied audiences and generate a new surge in awareness of the Faith among our fellow Americans. It will continue to stimulate an array of activities that over time will emerge as more permanent patterns of community action. The national plan c, yet also auda




cious and inspiring, As to the Baha’f community itself, the believers report very high degrees



tions, and optimism about the future. No issue can be taken with the level of commitment that is clearly evident around us, even though the goal will always be to improve participation and performance.

Moreover, the remarkable growth of the American Baha’i community within this very century bespeaks a divine and mysterious process at work. By any measure the Baha’i Faith here has been a high growth religion. Since the beginning of the beloved Guardian’s ministry we have grown fifty-fold in America. And we cannot doubt the accumulating evidence for the insight of the Supreme Body, the Universal House of Justice, that opportunities for growth in North America are greater than any place on earth.





page 30. THe, AMERICAN. BANiA‘l * Annual REEORT L999

June 24,1999 [Page 31]



MINORITY TEACHING

COMMITTEES

NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN TEACHING COMMITTEE

¢ National African American Teaching Committee (NAATC) spent most of its second year focusing on its mandate to enhance the process of entry by troops and maintaining communication with three of its four pilot sites: Adanta, Georgia; Los Angeles, California; and Detroit, Michigan. Simultaneously, while monitoring the growth and potential of teaching activities in these pilot areas, the committee began a dialogue with the respective Regional Baha’s Councils.

The current goal of the Committee is to urge all Regional Baha'i Councils to establish regional African American ‘Teaching Committees. In support of this theme, the National Committee held extensive consultations with members of the Southern and Northeastern Regional Councils, monitored the progress of the first Regional African American ‘Teaching Committee established by the Regional Baha’i Council for the Central States, and plans to meet with the Regional Baha’i Council for the Western States. These consultations have had a favorable impact, and it is anticipated that such a decentralized approach will directly influence the process of reaching people of African descent.

Among the regional activities monitored and supported by the Committee were a successful fireside and commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Nashville, Tennessee; extensive research and consultation with friends in the New York City area; the participation of two members of the Committee in the “Vanguard of the Dawning” satellite initiative in Los Angeles, entitled “Uplifting ‘The African-American Family”; and the continued support of the highly successful teaching and proclamation activities in Detroit.

The Committee was involved in the Black Men’s Gathering, held at Green Acre Baha’i School, which resulted in several members of that gathering traveling to Africa to teach in response to the call of the Universal House of Justice, as well as in stimulating service to local communities by those who participated in the gathering.

In monitoring these activities, the Committee has recognized a high potential of service in the community united under the banner of Baha’u’lléh. In acknowledging the enormous progress that has been made, it has become clear that much progress still is needed. Research by the Committee has shown that there is urgent need to improve our community’s ability to retain active members of African descent in the Baha’i community. Towards this end, the Committee is strongly promoting the study of the workbook Exploring the Historical and


Spiritual Significance of Being a Person of African Descent in the Babdt Faith, com piled by Richard Thomas. Itis an effective

tool for inspiring, motivating and educat ing the friends about the level of commit ment, perseverance and dedication of the

African-American heroes of the Faith.

The workbook already has impacted

many local communities and continues to

infuse a greater understanding and appre ciation for the heroic acts of Baha’is of African descent. Securing the distribution

of this material and encouraging its effec tive use in firesides, conferences and gath erings was one of the major efforts of the

NAATC during the past year.

NATIONAL CHINESE TEACHING TASK FORCE

¢ Chinese Task Force has identified three significant issues for reaching and befriending the Chinese in this country. First is the need to assist communities and college clubs in university areas to befriend Chinese students and scholars on campuses and encourage consistent individual and community support for these efforts. There is an ongoing need to raise the consciousness in the American Baha’ community that reaching the Chinese is a priority and to enhance awareness of the special sensitivities involved for those from the People’s Republic of China. Second, it is important to encourage Chinese-focus study groups in each of the four regions and to promote the use of specially developed Chinese materials, including the initiation and promotion of a regional system for facilitator training in their use, with a vision to eventually incorporate such focused courses and activities in regional institute programs. It is envisioned that this process of the study of the Creative Word will raise up Chinese and others who will be deepened, committed, and active workers for the Faith. Finally, a greater effort must be made to encourage and facilitate the development of human resources for creating articles and literature in the Chinese language about the teachings and principles of the Faith, especially as they compare with Chinese culture and thinking.

‘To address these three primary goals, the task force is focusing its attention on identifying at least two target university communities in each of the four regions with which to work directly to establish ongoing, consistent support for Chinese teaching. This will involve consultation with college clubs, local spiritual assemblies, assistants to the Auxiliary Board members and other interested individuals in these areas. The Task Force has identified several successful community efforts around the country which can be featured as models. The ‘Task Force also needs to identify Chinese-focused study groups which are currently functioning well, individuals in other areas who are interested in beginning such study groups, and individuals who have been trained as facilitators using either the Ruhi or the Macau Institute materials to help initiate regional training systems. The Task Force hopes to convene a core group of Chinese writers and scholars to meet in Chicago in April 1999 to consult on the process of develop


ing Chinese materials for the press and other possible audiences. In the meantime, the Task Force has begun a series of such articles in English for The American Bahd’t.

The Task Force hopes that by focusing on establishing a foundation for these three primary initiatives, it can most effectively facilitate the transition of the coordination of Chinese teaching activities to the four Regional Baha’ Councils. It will continue to be in consultation with the Regional Councils throughout this process.

NATIONAL LATIN-AMERICAN TEACHING TASK FORCE

yeh National — Latin-American Teaching Task Force has made a concerted effort to meet with the Regional Baha’f Councils to provide them with data that will assist them in the Latino teaching efforts in their regions. Even though the Task Force has been unable to meet with all four Regional Councils, it has maintained a close contact with the Councils and carried out some consultation on an informal basis.

A limited budget impacted the Task Force's ability to meet regularly as a group or with communities around the country. The Task Force held three plenary meetings last year: one in New York City in May, one in Boston in July, and one at Bosch Baha’i School in February. These meetings were scheduled around larger meetings with the believers and institutions in those areas, or were scheduled to accommodate other activities, such as workshops and presentations to the friends. In all other instances, the meetings either with institutions or with the friends were carried out mostly at the local level by one or two Task Force members at a time. The ‘Task Force has presented its vision of Latino teaching and has consulted with friends and institutions at the following localities and events around the country: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Livingston, Texas; Kingsville, Texas; the Southern Texas Convention; the Grand Canyon Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, and Tucson, Arizona; Santa Barbara, Oceanside, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Santa Cruz, Bishop and Glendale, California; Chicago, Highwood, Rogers Park and Wilmette, Illinois; New York City; Albuquerque, New Mexico; the Northern Virginia Bahé’i School in McLean, Virginia, and Chantilly and Herndon, Virginia; and at the National Thanksgiving Youth Conference in Boston, Massachusetts.

The Task Force maintained a page in The American Bahd’t during the year; carried out a census of Latino Baha’is in the United States; and produced a bilingual prayer book that was published by Palabra Publications.

Individually, each of the Task Force members continues to assist the friends and local institutions to the best of their abilities with consultations about teaching and with guidance about materials and other resources. The LatinAmerican ‘Teaching ‘Task Force wishes to express its deepest gratitude to the National Spiritual Assembly for the enormous privilege of service given to it.




¢ primary work of the National Youth Committee is to provide expert study and strategic advice on youth to the National Spiritual Assenmty, ie «genniac, the Regional Baha’{ Councils and their regional Youth Committees; to collaborate with institutions to advance the role of youth in achieving the major aims of the Four Year Plan; to rally Baha’i youth in support of the goals of the National Spiritual Assembly; and to develop a national architecture for youth activity that will help to foster united action.

The Committee’ role is shifting from implementing grassroots activity to increasingly providing a research foundation about youth for institutions. One challenge has been to discern which tasks fall within the Committee’ purview; at times, the friends expect the Committee to perform work that in actuality should fall under the aegis of regional institutions. In the coming year, the Committee will work to inform the community about its changing role in light of the advent of the Regional Baha’i Councils and will also be collaborating closely and regularly with the Regional Baha’i Councils.

‘The National Youth Office responded to the needs of Regional Baha’i Councils, regional and local Youth Committees, Youth Workshops, Campus Associations, Youth Service Corps applicants, and individual youths and adults across the country. ‘There are approximately 15,000 Baha’i youth in the United States between the ages of 12 and 25. The Committee receives up to 1,000 communications per month—evidence of a high level of activity in a relatively small youth community.

Such a volume of communications presents a challenge, however, as the Committee struggles to respond to all requests for information and guidance in a timely manner. Its work at present is often reactive. Also, it is difficult to keep accurate records of youth contact information. Strategies for improving the turnaround time and quality of information sentinclude delegating correspondence to other institutions where appropriate, augmenting the efforts of the sole Youth Office staff person by drawing on volunteers, and systematiz~ ing records.

There are approximately 350 Baha’f Campus Associations (BCAs) in the United States. Again, accurately assessing total numbers and contact information for BCAs is a constant challenge. Some steps to remedy these patterns in the coming year include the systematization of registration through a national web site, dissemination of a comprehensive new BCA training manual, and increasing decentralization of BCA activities.

Campus Association weekends, held at the permanent Baha’i schools, were aimed at connecting Baha'is on campus with national goals, buil a much-needed loving and suppor-ive network of Baha’i youth, and developing more systematic



June 24,1999

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999 . page 31 [Page 32]

methods for proclamation, expansion and service. Feeling the urgency of increasing capacity amongst the youth, the Committee employed creative methods in its BCA weekend activities to explore the ways in which they conceive of their work and deliver the Message on campus. Each year shows an increase in the maturity and spiritual character of the participants. Major challenges surrounding these


annual gatherings inchile the mood w~

increase ‘the racial diversity of the participants, to develop programs that will stimulate both new and veteran believers, to sponsor weekends in the coming year at the Baha'i Institutes and/or in the South, Southwest, and Northwest. Strategies for improvements include the continued use of media, arts, and participatory methods at the gatherings, the increased stewardship of the weekends by Regional Youth Committees, and greater recognition on the part of local communities of the importance of these gatherings and the need for deputization.

The Committee collaborated with the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men on its One Voice Campaign and encouraged race unity initiatives such as Campus Race Unity Dialogues and screenings of The Power of Race Unity. Challenges surrounding these efforts include determining the true impact of these campaigns on campuses, as results are hard to gauge, and the need to encourage systematic follow-through on. these events. Strategies for improvementinclude sponsoring dialogues and helping Baha’ youth envision the powerful impact they can have if they arise en masse as leaders of the race unity and gender equality movements.

Subscriptions to Fertile Field, the Campus Association Newsletter, more than doubled to over 700. In the coming year, the newsletter will increasingly become an engaging, unifying vehicle for ideas, national goals, and the development of a shared Baha’t identity.

‘The assessment of the status of Baha’f Youth Workshops (BYWs) continues, and although some BYWS are going through a period of transition, many continue to thrive, with new Workshops developing nationwide. There are approximately one hundred Workshops in the United States and Workshop members from America have helped to found dozens of BYWs abroad. Challenges include communicating to the greater community the true purpose of Baha’i Youth Workshops, the need for training materials to raise up functioning Workshops, and to track down constantly changing contact information. The Committee is working with experienced individuals to create a BYW training manual, to help encourage training institutes for Workshop coordinators and members, and to publish a national BYW newsletter.

‘Two national campaigns were initiated to track existing efforts and to encourage new activity. The Heroic Deeds of Service project was designed in response to the Universal House of Justice’s call “to perform, during the Four Year Plan, heroic deeds of service to the Cause which will astonish and inspire their fellow believers.” ‘The several hundred pledges received will be sent as a gift to the Universal House of


Justice. The 500 Firesides campaign was intended to educate youth about firesides, and to stimulate youth energy on a national level. Two hundred firesides were reported by youth in response to this campaign: In both cases, collecting responses and getting an accurate picture of the true level of activity was a challenge.

Committee members attended gatherings in all regions to learn more about the status of youth and to better inform youth about the national vision. In activities such as the youth forum at the 155 B.E. National Convention, the Vanguard of the Dawning Conference, the DC Conference, Green Lake, Badasht 150, a conference in Nebraska, and several Northeast Regional Baha'i youth conferences, Committee members had the opportunity to meet individuals, groups, and local and regional youth committees. While effective as a means of learning about the hopes and challenges of youth around the country, this presented the challenge that five volunteer members cannot go everywhere they would like to on the Committee’ behalf. This circumscribes the Committee’s understanding of the diverse issues facing the community and the need for research systems to gather this information when members are unable to be physically present in all locales.

The process of placing Baha’{ Youth Service Corps (BYSC) volunteers at domestic posts continues to be refined and includes increasing the number and diversity of service posts, making the program

- accessible to a wider a range of youth, and

educating the youth about the importance of service. The permanent Baha’f schools and institutes continue to be desperate for BYSC volunteers, however, and the challenge persists of finding committed applicants with supportive families.

The monthly Youth Page in The American Baba’s includes national, regional and local news, announcements and photographs, but the Committee is unsure of how many read and benefit from the page. The page would improve with submissions by a diverse range of youth in every state.

‘Work has begun on the National Baha’i Youth Web Site, which will serve as a central location for national, regional, and local Baha'i youth news, stories and administrative information. The site’s purpose will be to provide resources, increase systematization, share photographs and stories of youth activities, and reduce a feeling of isolation and separation amongst the youth of the country.


@ purpose of the Office of Pioneering is to facilitate the desire

of Baha’is to serve the Faith internationally. It is responsible for all travel and settlement of the friends, including Baha’i Youth Service Corps, from the forty-eight contiguous states of the United States to any other area of the world. Through

communication with institutions, pioneers in the field and others, as well as references and-publications, the Office of Pioneering receives a continuous flow of information regarding employment, health needs, service opportunities, conferences and schools, and so on, all of which may enhance consultation with prospective international traveling teachers and pioneers. The Office of Pioneering is responsible for introducing the friends to the National Spiritual Assemblies of the countries they choose to travel to or settle in, transferring their membership as appropriate, and maintaining correct addresses as well. Pioneer ‘Training Institutes, hosted by this office, are a critical part of the preparation for these friends and are essential to facilitating the success of pioneers at their post.

In the past year, the Office of Pioneering embraced the decentralization process more fully, given the new structure of the national community into four regions serviced by the Regional Baha’i Councils. The staff evaluated its work and consulted on the level of decentralization that could be undertaken immediately. In preparation for working with the Regional Councils, the office found that it was able to have international consultants for the Northeast and Central Regions, the South, and the West, with the fourth international consultant serving special projects. This change broadened the scope of each international consultant so that each would have the responsibility to consult with individuals on all kinds of international service, rather than on just one as in the past. In addition, the call of the Universal House of Justice for particular populations to serve specific areas of the world was distributed among the three regional consultants, giving each an additional focus in the work to meet the goals of the Four Year Plan.

‘The Office of Pioneering’s vision is for every prospective pioneer to be trained prior to leaving the United States. Consequently, great consideration was given to the development of its Pioneer ‘Training Institutes. Significant strides were made in creating a program that includes the use of the arts throughout the curriculum, which covers the spiritual and practical preparation of the friends. Key to this was the development of a manual containing the plans for each of the classes of the Institute, which will serve to assist in the decentralization of these sessions.

The assigned goal of sending 5,700 believers internationally in the Four Year Plan is steadily approaching fulfillment. Last year 274 pioneers left the country, making a plan-to-date total of 811 pioneers. The number of traveling teaching trips undertaken was 732, making a planto-date total of 4,108 as of March 1, 1999. ‘Thus, the total number of believers who have served internationally, of which the Office of Pioneering has been informed, is 4,919. A slow but steady increase in the numbers of inquiries into international service has been observed. The Northeast and Central states have averaged approximately thirty new inquiries per month, compared to four per month last year. ‘The Southern states have had approxi mately twenty-five inquiries, up from seven, per month, and the Western states have had about forty-three inquiries per month compared with fourteen last year.

With an increased decentralization of our functions as consultants and trainers of individuals, the Office of Pioneering sees its role moving in the direction of serving the local and regional institutions as a source of reference information and resources. The evidences of the increased maturity of the local assemblies in assisting the friends to prepare to serve internationally has supported efforts to further decentralize these processes with everincreasing success. The Office is confident that through these efforts it will come ever closer to the goal that each prospective pioneer will be fully prepared and trained before leaving the United States.

BAHA'[ HOUSE OF WORSHIP ACTIVITIES OFFICE

¢ role of the Baha’i House of. Worship in pursuit of the goals of the Four Year Plan involves providing within that sacred edifice services which teach the Faith and foster the development of the existing Baha'i community. Activity centers on creating environments to cultivate the personal development of the souls of both declared believers and seekers through learning activities, service venues, and opportunities for prayer, meditation, and inspiration. While many longstanding commitments have been maintained: by the Activities Office this past year, continual review of the current effectiveness of each process is necessary. Projecting methods which will meet escalating needs is an ever-present concern. The crusade to initiate new, society-responsive activities and to engage and maintain an increasingly broader base of volunteers to implement these varied missions currently consumes tremendous amounts of staff energy. Time, space, matter and human resource constraints now challenge management, yet current growth foreshadows greatly expanded demands in the very near future.

Communications initiatives generated by this office acquaint the friends with a wide range of opportunities to serve and be enriched by inspirational activity here. Further, they foster a more clear understanding of the nature of the facility and its role in teaching and community life. Specialized training seminars have been offered to develop personal skills and to increase the numbers of believers participating in guiding, devotions, programs and the choir. Implementation of new volunteer documentation systems has opened wider possibilities for recruiting, recording and celebrating growth in this area with efficiency and love. Intense efforts in the area of Music Services have resulted in a strong and growing choir that contributes to inspirational programs. Choir readiness to accept outreach engagements has been facilitated by the


’ page’32 Tne American BanA’t AnnuaL Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 33]

rapid expansion of a diverse repertoire of various genres and languages. Programming for public appeal has grown this year to include more firesides in various languages, an introductory class on the Faith in Spanish, more Story Festival afternoons for children, and regular Sunday programs. The growing area of special projects in this vein includes choral concerts and special interest events such as “Spirituality at Work,” a presentation by author Dorothy Marcic, on healthy attitudes and practices in business management. Volunteer project management teams have been formed to address the need to expand teaching while maintaining minimal staff An increased commitment to include cultural diversity in the Sunday devotions is evident through regular inclusion of prayers in several languages. Community enrichment activities grew with the increased offering of three Special Visit Weekends for visiting believers. Efforts to support and collaborate with other institutions’ initiatives yielded several projects, most conspicuously, the Badasht 150 Conference for youth, a mission of the Regional Baha’i Council for the Central States. Expansion of inventory in the book shop serves both deepening and teaching needs and supports special events themes. In the coming year, continuing and escalating challenges surely will include a number of very human concerns, such as maintaining the sacredness of the site while hosting many tourists; generating wider participation in enrichment and teaching activities; recruiting and maintaining membership and unifying skill levels among choir members; maturing widespread interest in collaborating on quality children’s activities; providing guides/teachers at all times, especially those with special language skills; and incorporating more believers in specific projects. Material issues involve the effective use of inadequate space for activities; the need to update teaching displays in the Visitor Center; maintaining the aging equipment used for the various audiovisual teaching presentations; and developing a rich bookstore resource within the guidelines of the House of Worship. Communication ambitions _ include increasing House of Worship visibility to the public and an awareness of the spiritual resource it constitutes. One means lies in the generation of a House of Worship






Ree NATIONAL EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS OFFICE


National Education and

Schools Office coordinates and supervises the work of the five permanent Baha’i schools and institutes, WLGI Radio Baha’i, the thirty-three Regional Baha’i Schools and the National Education Task Force. It participates in the interdepartmental Executive Board of


web site. The Activities Office will strive to balance all variables, cultivating a timely responsiveness to the rising demands for service, teaching and community building.


NATIONAL FOR THE EQUALITY OF WOMEN AND MEN

uring this past year, the National

Committee for the Equality of Women and Men (NCEWM) has been actively engaged in promoting greater awareness of the spiritual principle of the equality of women and men within the Baha’i community and in seeking avenues to bring this transformative and healing message to the larger United States population. It has focused on four major goals: transforming the attitudes, assumptions and behaviors of men and women; raising up a new generation committed to gender equality; promoting the development, well-being and prosperity of women; and encouraging the rapid dissemination and broad discussion of the statement Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men within and without the Baha’f community.

Some of the major issues the Committee faced while working on these goals included: a) the perception of some communities and individuals that gender equality was a “women’s issue,” b) the limited human resources within the Bahéa’i community, ¢) the lack of information about the seriousness and urgency of addressing the problems caused by gender inequality, d) the need to present Baha’u’llah’s healing message to the larger community, e) the need to find cost-effective ways to communicate with Baha'i institutions, communities and individuals throughout the country, and f) extensive coordination with other administrative committees and institutions.

Some of the major activities undertaken to address the perception of gender equality being a “women’s issue” were a name change for the committee; a greater effort to encourage men to attend and participate in the gender equality activities sponsored by the committee and local communities; more presentations and






the Wilmette Institute and the interdepartmental Task Force of the Institute for Baha’{ Studies. The office facilitates representation of the Faith with the Board of Directors of the Religious Education Association and maintains a consulting service in program development for the permanent schools. It also provides the National Spiritual Assembly with advice ‘on educational issues.

The Education and Schools Office ensures that the work of the schools is coordinated and consistent with the National Spiritual Assembly's educational mandates on programs and facilities. The office acts as a resource for education for

information regarding the role of men in “owning the equality of women” as encouraged by ‘Abdu’l-Bahé; and consis tent modeling of gender balance by providing male and female co-presenters as often as possible.

To help address the issue of limited human resources, the committee coordinated four Training Seminars (one in each region) to develop and/or improve the public speaking and workshop facilitation skills of women and men in order that after the training they would, on their own initiative, plan deepenings, workshops, and firesides on the issue of gender equality in their own communities; be resources to whom the committee could refer Baha'i communities and committees requesting speakers on this topic; serve as resources for the NCEWM for giving speeches and act as advisors to the committee; disseminate the Two Wings of a Bird statement in their own communities as widely as possible; and make contact with like-minded organizations.

‘To increase its knowledge of the serious social ramifications to individuals, families, and communities brought on by the absence of gender equality, the committee convened the first conference of Baha’i therapists to address these issues. The Committee is coordinating the writing of follow-up materials that will serve as resources to local spiritual assemblies and could help them handle some of the relevant issues that come before them. In addition, the committee continued meeting with local assemblies and community members to discuss their concerns for gender equality issues. These meetings were held in several major metropolitan areas: Dallas, Texas; Lansing, Michigan; and Nashville, Tennessee.

‘The Committee undertook three major initiatives to bring Bahd’u'llah’s message of gender equality to the larger society: the dissemination of the Tivo Wings of a Bird statement at the Seneca Falls conference; the repeat performance of the One Voice project, a week-long series of activities on college campuses across the country; and the coordination of the National Campaign for the Dissemination of the Statement, a call for local communities to present the Tivo Wings of a Bird statement to their respective mayors and city councils by April 1999. In addition, the committee worked closely with the National Teaching Committee to prepare for and to promote




EDUCATION ay

individuals, institutions, and communities. The encouragement of expansion and consolidation of the Regional Baha’{ Schools is also carried out by this office. In addition, it serves as a key member of the interdepartmental work on training conducted by departments at the Baha’i National Center.

The Education and Schools Office coordinates the budget development of all the schools and institutes, Radio Baha’{, the Regional Baha’i Schools, and the Education Task Force. It works closely with the Properties office at the Baha'i National Center to develop comprehensive, long-range plans for the permanent

the upcoming video campaign on gender equality and members of the Committee served on the Media Task Force.

The committee utilized an array of methods to communicate with Baha’f institutions, communities, and individuals to create greater interest in and support for the equality of women and men including: high jility articles in The American Bahd’f, community meetings around the country; presence at major events, such as the Friends of Persian Culture, Social = and =~ Economic Development, and Association for Baha’i Studies conferences; a presentation at the National Convention; the creation of a web site; and utilization of e-mail lists.

Most of these projects required extensive coordination with other agencies and institutions of the Faith, such as the Office of Women’ Affairs, the Office of External Affairs, the — National — Teaching Committee, the National Youth Committee, the Regional Baha’i Councils, the regional committees for gender equality in the Northeast and Central regions, the Education Task Force, The American Baba’, the Office of Assembly Development, the Publishing ‘Trust, Media Services, Management Information Services, the Baha’f Schools, and local spiritual assemblies and registered groups. ‘The committee was enabled to proceed with these activities in large measure by our staff associate, Leila Milani, who joined us this year.

In looking at the last year of the Four Year Plan, the most significant challenges facing the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men are the lack of awareness throughout the Baha’f community that gender equality has been designated as one of the “twin foci” of the Four Year Plan and the urgent need to address this subject. The Committee needs to find ways to reassure the local Baha’{ communities that racial unity and gender equality can and must be addressed side-by-side and that they are complementary aspects of the same issue.

Other major issues facing the committee include: dissemination of the Tivo Wings of a Bird statement to national and state officials and to national organizations that promote gender equality; coordination of a program to address the needs of youth and children; and greater coordination with the Regional Baha’{ Councils and the Regional ‘Training Institutes.








facilities and properties at the five Baha’ schools and institutes.

In addition to the daily routine maintenance and coordination work, work has been done on the creation of an educational web site with the Education Task Force to assist the work of the numerous Baha’f teachers, educators, and school committees. The office anticipates this web site will be available in the next few months.

‘The office produces and distributes the annual theme document—a curricular framework particularly for the summer schools—as well as the Special Edition issue of Brilliant Star magazine each year




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and serves as its advisor. The office coordinates the content of the Special Edition issue with the annual theme document. Greater alignment of vision and activities among the schools and institutes is fostered and encouraged. This was particularly apparent in regards to the programs presented at the regional and permanent schools where last year’s theme, the role of the individual in advancing the process of entry by troops, was widely used. The theme for the coming year is the role of the community in advancing the process of entry by troops.

During the past year, five new regional Baha'i school committees were established: Western Washington, Eastern Oregon, Indiana, Georgia and Louisiana. The Education and Schools Office cohosted three regional school committee gatherings in Colorado, Oregon and Kentucky, involving a total of thirteen committees. A new and revised regional schools manual was produced and distributed to the committees. A list server established for the regional schools has increased communication between the committees.

The Baha'i Scouting Program, “The Unity of Mankind,” is now coordinated by the Education and Schools Office, and a substantial revision of the program is under way. In collaboration with the National Teaching Committee and the Education Task Force, the office produced and distributed a series of workshops to complement the video The Power of Race Unity. With the sponsorship of a local spiritual assembly, the office conducted a Core Curriculum ‘Teacher ‘Training program for interested staff of the Baha’i National Center and local believers.

With the advent of the Regional Baha’i Councils, a major shift in focus by the National Spiritual Assembly for _ its national agencies and committees compelled the decentralization of some of the work historically carried out by them. Consequently, a number of changes have occurred in the supervision of the permanent institutes. In a continuing effort to decentralize, the National Spiritual Assembly changed the mandate of the Native American Baha’{ Institute (NABI) to a regional training institute and appointed a Board of Directors with programmatic responsibility to the Regional Baha'i Council of the Western States, while maintaining its coordination with and supervision by the Education and Schools Office. Similarly, the mandate of the Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute is under a revision that will enable it to better serve the surrounding communities. Its supervision has been assigned to the Regional Baha’i Council of the Southern States.

Additionally, the challenge of balancing the expansion of facilities and services at the permanent schools and institutes with the availability of funds continued to be a major focus in the past year. All the permanent schools and institutes struggled to provide continually the best possible programs and services with, at times, significant staff shortages.

Next year activities and projects collaboratively undertaken with other agencies

and departments will continue to be a major emphasis of the Education and Schools Office. Regular maintenance of the web site, which will provide lesson plans:for children’s teachers and articles on education, will be conducted. The office will continue to collect, organize, and develop educational materials as it evolves into a resource bank for educators. The evolving coordination of the work at the permanent Baha’i institutes will be a major focus this coming year. The office is assisting Louhelen Baha’i School in continuing four programs originally devised and proposed by the consulting service of this office and starting two new annual programs at Bosch and one at Green Acre Baha’i School. The Education and Schools Office will render special assistance to the Wilmette Institute for increasing and expanding its distance learning programs, will conduct coordinator/instructor training programs for the Regional Training Institutes, and will develop outreach activities through other Baha’f educational institutions.


¢ National Baha’i Education Task Force fosters the development of the human resources necessary to manage the many tasks of expansion and consolidation by developing and disseminating spiritual education and training programs for children, youth and adults. The training programs, mainly conducted through the National Teacher Training Center at the Louhelen Baha’i School, build the community life necessary to attract large numbers of seekers. At the National Teacher ‘Training Center, the Education Task Force conducts trainings for the believers who will serve their regional or local training institutes as teacher trainers, race unity trainers, marriage and family life facilitators, or as parenting facilitators. The National Teacher Training Center supports these training programs and others offered throughout the country, which are conducted by newly-trained and veteran trainers, by offering an annual advanced seminar to foster the continuous self-development of trainers serving in all programs; encouraging trainers to offer individualized follow-up workshops to the training programs conducted for teachers, race unity workers, married couples, and parents; providing for the systematic long-term development of teachers; responding to requests from regional institutes to train believers as facilitators for the Fundamental Verities courses; and responding to hundreds of requests for training, information about training programs, and materials from individuals and institutions throughout the U.S. and from numerous other countries.

As of February 1999, Baha’is who have been trained to serve local and regional training institutes in the United States include 247 teacher trainers, 156 race unity trainers, 112 parent facilitators, and

76 marriage and family life trainers. An additional 106 believers from 26 countries have been trained to serve as trainers in their home countries.

‘The systematic training programs for new and veteran believers offered by the Education ‘Task Force develop the knowledge, insights, and skills necessary to carry out the national teaching plan. Training materials have been made available through the Baha’ Distribution Service. Among those available are Every Believer Is a Teacher, which assists individuals and communities to carry out the injunction to teach; To Serve the Covenant and A New Civilization, which establish fundamental spiritual practices within the context of the Covenant of Baha’u'llih and assist the individual to contribute to Baha’i community life; and the course for new believers, From New Believers to New Teachers in the Cause of God, which provides a comprehensive introduction to the teachings of Baha’u’lléh.

In addition, the Education Task Force conducts International Core Curriculum trainings, collaborates with the Louhelen Baha'i School to conduct International Dialogues on Education, prepares and presents workshops for the Religious Education Association, and collaborates with numerous national committees, offices, and agencies to develop training programs and materials.

In collaboration with the National Teaching Committee, the Education Task Force developed workshop instructions to support the videos (The Power of Race Unity and Two Wings of a Bird: The Equality of Women and Men) produced for the National Teaching Plan. These instructions for firesides or spiritual gatherings were designed to enable Baha’is to present the teachings of Baha’u'llah to those who become interested in the Faith through the media initiative. In addition to conducting two sets of workshops for teacher trainers, race unity trainers, and marriage and family life trainers, one set of workshops for parent facilitators, one advanced Core Curriculum seminar, one international Core Curriculum training, and one international dialogue at the National Teacher Training Center during the past year, the Education ‘Task Force published a book of learning activities on the life and teachings of the Bab to accompany the activity book on the life and teachings of Baha’u’llah. The ‘Task Force also developed and published a curriculum booklet, Institutions of the Faith, to accompany curriculum booklets on Baha’u’llah, The Bab, ‘Abdu’l-Baha, The Principle of Oneness and Race Unity, The Covenant, and Hugtiqu'lldh and the Baba’t Funds. The Education Task Force anticipates developing a web site of lesson plans for teachers and continuing to create, critique, revise as necessary, and publish curriculum materials and training manuals.

Looking to next year, the Education ‘Task Force plans to develop further the system of regional curriculum advisors to better support the decentralization process. It also anticipates continuing research on the effectiveness of the training programs and materials and the development of a training video to further support the long-term skill development

of teachers. Other projects include collaborating with the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men to develop and disseminate a training program and supporting materials to implement the principle of equality and collaborating with the National Youth Committee on developing and disseminating a training program and supporting materials to assist youth to increasingly live up to the Baha’{ standard and to teach the Cause of God.

The rapidly increasing number of requests for training in the programs available, for assistance in adapting training programs or creating new ones, and for information about training programs developed by the Education Task Force and elsewhere consistently exceeds the ability of the Education Task Force and the National Teacher Training Center to respond in a timely fashion. The Task Force has requested the addition of a staff position at the National Teacher Training Center to address the increasing backlog of requests for service.

BOSCH BAHA’[ SCHOOL

% | “he Bosch Baha’f School exists to provide for the spiritual and intellectual growth of the American Baha’i community and the realization of “a significant advance in the process of entry by troops,” by incorporating the triple themes of the Four Year Plan—consecration of the individual, flourishing of Baha’{ communities, and maturation of the Institutions—in the programs offered at the school. This is done by providing an environment that encourages participants to internalize and put into action the moral and spiritual principles of the Faith, thereby facilitating individual transformation and the accomplishment of the goals of the National Spiritual Assembly. A key issue involves striking a balance between delivering programs that are unique and distinctive, especially in light of the proliferation of regional and local training institutes, while increasing the accessibility of Bosch to people of limited financial means. In addition, there is a critical need to develop competent trainers of the Fundamental Verities courses.

Among the major activities undertaken. in the past year in support of the Four Year Plan were ones held cooperatively with other agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly. A Pioneering Institute, Youth Service Corps ‘Training, and SITA Training were held in collaboration with the Pioneering Office. A session on Islam, in collaboration with the Wilmette Institute, was cond of the World Religions new three-weekend training institute series on the Fundamental Verities was designed and offered, utilizing the curriculum developed by the National Education Task Force, which trained individuals to present the course in their own local communities. For this particular institute, Bosch targeted people of capacity in the local community; all participants had to be recommended either by their local spiritual assembly or Auxiliary Board member. This course was offered at no cost to the participants, with all funding



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June 24, 1999 [Page 35]

coming from local spiritual assemblies. Bosch also hosted a Southeast Asian Leadership Roundtable Conference with the U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office and the ‘Two Wings of a Bird training conference with the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men.

Other significant’ activities included a Regional Association for Baha’{ Studies Conference; a West Coast conference with the Baha’i Network for Aids, Sexuality, addictions and Abuse; a Racism/Race Unity Conference; the annual Marriage richment Retreat, along with a new two-weekend session for married couples called Turning on the Light, which blended spiritual and psychological prin for creating and sustaining strong marriages; two LSA Team Development weekends, intensive sessions held with twelve local spiritual assemblies parti ing in a series of trust-building activities; Summer and Winter schools; and sessions for youth and children, including a Summer Youth Institute, a Junior Youth Institute, wo Children’s Academy sessions, a College Club Weekend, and a Youth ‘Training Conference.

Bosch continued to expand its program calendar for greater facility utilization, with sessions offered year-round. The Baha'i program calendar included 45 separate sessions, including a ten-week summer schedule, two winter sessions, and one four-day spring session. Many weekends included two or more programs running concurrently to increase overall attendance and facility utilization. In addition, the number of outside rentals was up significantly from last year, including thiright non-Baha’{ and four Baha’i-sponsored rentals. Despite one of the most ambitious program schedules ever undertaken at Bosch, several sessions were canceled due to low registrations.

Attendance at Baha'i sessions was down approximately 19% year-to-date (YTD), while outside rental attendance was up over 300%. Baha’{ program fees were down approximately 10% YTD and are projected to be more than $300,000 for the year; outside rental fees are up $78,000 YTD at $102,000. Total YTD fee revenues are up approximately 15%. Yearto-date revenues from the Bookshop/Cafe were $121,000, down 19% from last yearate. The Bosch Bookshop was once sponsible for book sales at the Green Lake Conference in September 1998, generating over $27,000 in book sales. Bosch benefited from the contribution of over 25,500 volunteer hours in fiscal year 1998-99, with more than twenty Youth Service Corps volunteers serving at Bosch over the course of the year, along with two long-term volunteers. In ad tion, more than 150 local spiritual assemblies and groups contributed more than $10,800 in scholarship contributions to sponsor attendees for the Fundamental Verities Training Institute series.

No major new construction projects were undertaken, due primarily to Bosch being understaffed in maintenance personnel. A major, campus-wide road repair and repaving project was initiated just prior to the beginning of winter rains; it will end in late Spring 1999. The resignation of Bosch’s registrar in May 1998, fol




















lowed by the unexpected departure of its office manager, created a significant staffing crisis for several months at the end of the summer. A new office manager was hired in November 1998, along with a part-time administrative assistant in January 1999. The sixteen-month vacancy in the maintenance position was filled finally in November 1998, allowing a significant backlog of projects to be addressed.

Although Bosch is at capacity during more than 65% of its sessions, bas upgrades made to the facilities have not addressed the three primary capacity constraints, namely: limited dining space, insufficient cabin accommodations, and inadequate Bookshop/Cafe space. Planning is needed in the coming year to develop short- and long-term strategies for expansion and new construction.

‘There is an ongoing challenge of being accessible to all people while minimizing the level of subsidy from the National Fund. An emphasis on outside rentals has generated an additional revenue stream that “subsidizes” other activities and programs. It is critical, however, that a balance is struck between Baha'i programs and associated fees and pursuing outside rentals. Continuation and expansion of the “no-cost” Fundamental Verities training courses will be determined by the level of ongoing financial support from local








spiritual assemblies, individuals, and, potentially, the Regional Baha’i Council. = GREEN ACRE BAHA'I SCHOOL

istorically, Green Acre’s main goal as been to “become a great center, the cause of the unity of the world of humanity.” For more than one hundred years it has been called upon to promote spiritual transformation, world peace, race unity, and gender equality. Because of its longstanding history, associated not only with the visit of the beloved Master but with many of the early heroes of the Faith since the turn of the century, it has become an inspiring historic and spiritual center, ever striving to become a more perfect “reflection of the plain of ‘Akké,” where visitors of all ages and backgrounds may become more conscious of a heroic past while developing the vision, skills, and qualities necessary for advancing the process of entry by troops and the dawning of the new world order.

‘To fulfill this mission, Green Acre has worked on a number of priorities over the past year. Race unity activities have been one major focus. Green Acre has collaborated with activists and race relations organizations in co-sponsoring a regular series of public “Conversations on Race,” stressing the appreciation of diversity and strengthening its relationships with people of capacity. To further develop programming on this theme, Green Acre included sessions on images of Baha’w’llah in African-American music, the Hand of the Cause of God Louis Gregory's contributions to race amity work, and studies of The Vision of Race Unity statement and the ‘Toward Oneness compilation. ‘The diversity of school staff has been enriched by an ongoing exchange program with the








Louis G. Gregory Baha’{ Institute, involving this year eight participants who came to serve as teachers, volunteers and participants in our summer and winter school programs. Other representatives of diverse racial backgrounds have come to rve in year-of-service, summer service, and adult volunteer programs. AfricanAmerican music was highlighted in a series of gospel concerts by the Northeast Regional Baha’{ Choir and the Voices of Glory; Eric Dozier taught a program on ions in African-American jor highlight of the year was the privilege of hosting the Annual Black Men’s Gathering for the first time, allowing Green Acre to welcome 114 men of African descent for eight days and culminating in an interracial march of about 250 people to the grave of the Hand of the Cause of God Louis G. Gregory for a deeply moving devotional ceremony.

Green Acre was especially blessed to be chosen as the site of a historic international meeting from October 10 to 18, 1998. Representatives of fifteen National Spiritual Assemblies from the five continents gathered to study ways of encouraging their governments and Baha’i communities to support human rights education. The weeklong Human Rights Education Training Seminar, called for by the Universal House of Justice as a significant step in leading the world to the Lesser Peace, was conducted by members of the Baha’ International Community's United Nations Office in New York, along with representatives of the Offices of External Affairs of the United States and of Canada.

Another important priority has been the issue of the equality of women in partnership with men. This past year, courses









and public programs on the Tivo Wings of

a Bird statement were held in which the participation of men has grown significantly. A skill-building session also was held in the areas of workshop facilitation and public speaking, sponsored by the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men.

The education of children and youth and their integration into community another highlight of the year. Activities associated with this effort included ten special institutes and programs for children and youth, and other programs designed especially to integrate all age level dults and young people—‘in spiritual, social, educational and administrative activities.”. These activities included a study of how to find joy in Baha’ learning for youth and adults, a parent-child Holy Days week end, two Core Curriculum teacher-training programs and our family-oriented Winter School with its extensive intergenerational activities.

Green Acre also developed as a historical center. For the first time, a course on the history of Green Acre was offered. The school produced a moving slide presentation and other informational materials to inform its visitors more thoroughly about the history of this blessed spot. Historical tours were conducted regularly, especially of the Monsalvat area where ‘Abdu’l-Bahé envisioned the second House of Worship in North America and









an outstanding international university.

In its efforts to advance the process of entry by troops, Green Acre offered eighteen programs related to individual transformation and skill building, including two training institutes; twelve programs related to various institutions and administrative committees; and fourteen programs related to community development. Attendance was up by 40% during the summer and 25% during the fall. Participatory modes of learning characterized the majority of the programs, increasing their effectiveness and _skillbuilding dimensions. A Green Acre web page (www.greenacre.org), with basic information about the school and its programs, made the school’s programming even more accessible to a growing public.

In the coming year, one of Green Acre’s major challenges will be handling an increasing number of visitors. The school foresees an increased need for human and physical resources to serve a. steadilygrowing clientele of adults, youth and children. Staff will be concurrently working on the systematic development of curriculum and instructional methodologies, leading to a more formal program of integrated academic and spiritual studies.

‘The Master Plan for Green Acre facilities will be developed further, and hopes are high that construction of a new classroom building will begin. Finally, Green Acre will proclaim and teach the Faith by planning a major celebration of the anniversary of the election of the first National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States and Canada at Green Acre in 1925.

LOUHELEN BAHA'I SCHOOL


Pee offers well-organized, formally conducted courses on a regular schedule for families, youth, adults and children relating to goals of the Four Year Plan such as: studying the fundamental verities of the Faith; assisting individual believers to arise to teach and serve; promoting the maturation of local spiritual assemblies; stimulating confidence and initiative; and fostering firmness in the Covenant. All courses emphasize the central underlying principles of Baha’f belief and living, such as advancing the work for race unity; promoting the true partnership of women and men; strengthening i families and marriages; ‘ing puth to respond to the troubling issues they face in current society; deepening individual and community spiritual life; and fostering the raising up of the first prejudice-free generation.

Louhelen also serves as the home base of the National Teacher Training Center and provides operational support to the rapidly increasing training programs offered through the auspices of the NTTC.

Louhelen Baha'i School developed and sponsored, or provided facilities for, over 300 programs in the past year. The school was attended by more than 11,000 Baha’is who participated in programs related to the overall theme of advancing the process of entry by troops through the spiritual development of the individual, the annual theme selected by the






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National Spiritual Assembly for the year 155 B.E. In addition, more than 4,000

non-Bahé’i guests benefited from Louhelen service during the past year. This is a primary avenue of proclaiming the Cause, which regularly results in requests for presentations on the Faith to visiting groups, and has resulted in guests later attending firesides. It also provides a significant source of additional revenue.

As the media campaign and national

teaching plan bear fruit, the need to provide effective education and training programs will continue to increase at a substantial rate, thus requiring additional human resources. The increasing educ: tion and training needs of the Baha’i community require the development of additional courses, training materials, and programs. Providing effective education and training programs requ ignificant amount of high-quality human resources; however, financial and human resources are currently insufficient to fully pursue these needs as rapidly as would be desirable. Another challenge Louhelen faces that more and more of the courses x programs offered receive larger enrollments than can be optimally accommodated in current Louhelen classrooms. Increasing _ attendance requires additional classrooms. Last year the school raised more than $100,000 in self-generated contributions to provide a financial foundation for a new classroom building project and saved more than $200,000 in wage costs by receiving more than 20,000 hours of volunteer service in school operations. Louhelen anticipates that friends of the School will complete raising all of the funds necessary to begin construction of an urgently needed large classroom in the coming year, with little or no additional funding requested from the Baha’i National Fund.

Louhelen continuously strives to, become increasingly self-reliant financially, while balancing efforts to achieve this goal with other important goals such as assuring wide access to school programs and meeting the substantial financial costs of the maintenance and development of the Louhelen property.




















LOUIS G. GREGORY BAHA'I INSTITUTE AND RADIO BAHA'I WLGI

apie Louis G. Gregory Baha’s Institute and Radio Baha’{ WLGI serve as resources for the training, teaching and consolidation of Baha’fs and provide support to groups and institutions throughout the state of South Carolina for the purpose of accelerating the process of entry by troops and promoting the goals of the Four Year Plan in a loving, spiritual environment. Institute activities are conducted in response to direction from the Universal House of Justice to significantly increase the number of trained believers and trainers, while WLGI programming seeks to stimulate increased inquiries about the Faith through broadcasting the Creative Word. Both the Institute and WLGI are working toward consolidation goals and on having a dynamic impact on transformation.


In the past year significant changes in staffing and leadership have occurred both at the Institute and at WLGI, resulting in a reduced work force. However, programs, activities, administrative responsibilities, and all scheduled sessions have been held and have been maintained ata high standard.

Services provided to the community last year included continued community development work in conjunction with the advancement of the sustainable agricultural project; the utilization of local human resources; and working with women and training non-Baha’i children in cla Baha'i children have concurrently participated in ongoing children’s classes which have grown significantly from eleven to fifty-six students, and which have incorporated into their ac ties memorization, crafts, music, and presentation, integrated with virtues and writings from the Sacred Texts. The number of teachers has increased from two to six, and some local parents have come volunteers. More than one hundred chilyouth, and junior youth were part of the summer academies. sions facilitated transformation, preparation for traveling teaching, and the development of a capacity for spiritual leadership. The academies were held in a luded, remote wooded setting and featured intensive study of the Creative Word.

The Institute continued a successful collaboration with the Green Acre Baha’i School during both the summer and winter. Local youth were sent out of state, many for the first time, for program participation and service at Green Acre, an experience which has had an indelible impact on their lives. The 14th annual Peace Fest was held and attracted believers and the TV news media to a day-long festival of the arts where performances, vendors, food, and a Bahé’i booth were featured. The Institute successfully held regular Sunday Unity Worship services, which inspired the formation of a children’s choir that has performed at both public and Institute programs. Also, monthly Race Unity Dialogues were conducted, with communities and agenci invited, to facilitate and foster collaboration while problem-solving and working toward a common goal

The physical facility and grounds remain in excellent condition and have been maintained without incident and with no improvements throughout the year, as activities and events have continued. Generally, ongoing systematic programs have been maintained as part of our roster to train believers, in spite of challenges resulting from a lack of human resources, and Radio Baha’i WLGI has remained on air with quality programming despite reduced staffing and the loss of its station manager. Training volunteers for on-air broadcasting has successfully produced several new announcers and a new music director was hired. The radio station remains the widest-reaching teaching activity in the state. WLGI continues to provide an excellent quality of service to its surrounding communities.

In the coming year the Institute and the radio station have a goal to continue to





















provide the quality of service which has been established, given staff constraints, as well as to embrace the possibility of transition in our current mandate which may entail an alteration in regional and local focus. There is a great need for skilled trainers, staffing, broadcasting volunteers, and full-time (Year of Service) volunteer assistance to support the consolidation y activities. The hiring of a station manager is needed to refine the structure and focus of Radio Baha wide-reaching teaching work and media support. The Institute plans to expand the community agricultural project to include collaboration with area farmers and to begin a farmers market. Along with maintaining the socio-economic and community development work, the Institute has self-sufficiency as a goal for its operations as well as implementing projects, now aimed at the local population, that will expand to gre areas of the state to increase the teaching work through the incorporation of the spiritual principles in action. It is lil that improvements to the phys will be needed in order to provide for greatly increased capacity, for housing, and for adequate kitchen space as the close of the Four Year Plan brings new believers and numerous inquiries to the campus.

NATIVE AMERICAN BAHA'I INSTITUTE














alias Native American Baha'i Institute (NABI) celebrated its 20th anniv sary with a dramatic surge forward in the quality, effectiveness, and reach of its vices as the center of learning uniquely fashioned to meet the training needs of the Faith in Navajoland. It began with three significant actions taken by the National Spiritual Assembly: the appointment of a new Board of Directors, the designation of NABI as a Regional Training Institute, and the appointment of Alice and Jerry Bathke as NABI administrators.

At the core of the Institute’s new array of services and programs is the powerful yet emerging method of the Navajo Learning Circle. Designed by and with Navajo Bal in collaboration with the Four Corners Baha’i Summer School, it is a place of shared learning and inclusive consultation centered on the Creative Word as translated into the Navajo language. Past Navajo language materials were recovered and reproduced for use as a text in the Circles, and “learning kits” of materials reproduced in both Navajo and English, along with cassette tapes of select ed Baha’ prayers in English and Navajo, were used. Veteran and new believers alike, along with friends and seekers, experienced the Circle as a comfortable, nonthreatening, and empowering context for learning together, for hearing the words of Baha'u'llah in their native tongue, for making new friendships, for gaining confidence in their knowledge of the Faith, and for strengthening their ability to express themselves about spiritual topics. Since late summer, NABI trained sixteen indigenous Learning Circle trainers and hosted more than thirty sessions involving sixty Native believers.

‘These core training programs are com











plemented by “traditional” adult course offerings, children’s classes and community service programs. NABI currently averages seven adult classes, five children’s virtues classes, seven community service functions, and three community unity events per month, in addition to ongoing outreach and hospitality. Focused adult course offerings include Local Spiritual Assembly Development, Core Curriculum, Pioneer Training, NLC ‘Trainers Orientation, Children’s Summer School & Camp, The Covenant, The Bible and the Baha’i Faith, and Volunteer Orientation.

NABI’ simple goal for the past year was to reconnect the hearts to Baha'u'llah and to clear the pathway to relationship building. The Board was eager for the reconfigured NABI to foster healing and unity among the hearts, and to re NABI as a place of welcome, fellowship nd collaboration. The major issues confronting progress included disuni trangement, discontinued program disconnection from the community. In recognition of the need for unity and healing, the Board instituted unity-building gatherings, including the traditional Blessingway, the Reunion weekend, Summer Schools, Open House, and links with the surrounding local spiritual assemblies. The need for inclusion and empowerment led to the Board offering Learning Circles and a Women’ Conference, adapting the Core Curriculum to local culture, and initiating programs which served the educational, social and spiritual needs of children and youth. The resurgent peyote issue and proximity to predominantly Christian communities gave birth to compilations on. prayer, consultation, deepening, and recommitment; courses on the Covenant; courses on the Bible; and the opportunity to demonstrate NABI’s hospitality, love, and commitment to building inclusive social and economic developments for the community. By making the campus accessible to the community, sharing water, hosting community leukemia walks, hosting weekly community prayer gatherings (as well as hosting Feasts and Holy Days), and creating an Inter Faith Council, the Institute has built good relations with neighbors, tribal officials and the religious community.

In the year ahead, the Native American Baha’ Institute will be challenged to add depth to its training curriculum, expand the teaching work, form and develop more local spiritual assemblies, and “shed light to all regions” while assisting people to develop further their spiritual and intellectual capacities. The NABI Board has decided to meet these challenges with Navajo Learning Center Curriculum Development; more written, audio and video material in the Navajo language; use of the radio; continuing Core Curriculum adaptation; an expanded youth program focus; advancing more training and organization towards teaching outcomes; delivering more training at local community sites; more individualized local spiritual assembly training; the establishment of regional, national and possibly international traveling teaching teams; and the creation of local social and economic



















page 36 THE AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ ANNUAL RErort 1999

June 24, 1999, [Page 37]


development projects. Together these initiatives are intended to make the Army of Light victorious, galvanize the steadfast, rekindle the reluctant, and open the awaiting souls to the promise that the Blessed Beauty holds forth for all.

WILMETTE INSTITUTE

sae Wilmette Institute was established in 1995 to offer courses and

other educational programs. It is a nation





al-level training institute that seeks to raise up diverse, knowledgeable, articulate teachers and administrators of the Baha'i


Faith by imparting knowledge; developious skills, particularly teaching and fostering Baha'i identity. It receives no direct financial support from the Baha’i National Fund, but funds its programs through tuition fees and donations. It has one full-time staff member. Expansion of the Institute and creating






HOUSE OF WORSHIP CONSERVATION

he National Spiritual Assembly's

plan for the conservation and

continuous care of the Mother ‘Temple of the West is progressing firmly and with clear direction. The ongoing challenges of conserving the Temple with finite resources and the current status of technology have been met through dedicated efforts and research to develop a program which can set an example of the highest standards of workmanship and preservation.

‘To guarantee steady progress, a key member—a Project Manager—was added to the in-house staff to coordinate day-today conservation activities. The addition of this experienced architect/contractor to the staff provides the type of capacity needed to meet the growing volume of specialized maintenance and repair needs at the Temple.

‘The continuous care program has proceeded with inspections, documentation, and the development of on-site resources, including a specialized library of reference material for the Temple Conservation Group. The ongoing care and maintenance activities of the Properties. staff have been supplemented by various projects such as the fireproofing of structural steel bracing around Foundation Hall and strategic repairs to copper flashing and membrane roofing materials on the upper levels. Planning and preliminary engineering work have started on the monumental stairs, the terraces and the gardens in anticipation of their upcoming renovation. In addition, plans have been started to jitate the renewal of the heating, plumbing, electrical, roofing and weatherproofing systems of the building.

Other activities included providing technical support for the development and









become teachers and administrators of the Faith were central concerns all year. The Institute began the year with an ative reorganization involving fewer meetings of the Wilmette Institute Board and more responsibility devolving forces. The result has been greater ncy in making and implementing decisions.

Thirty students registered for the 1998-99 Spiritual Foundations for a Global Civilization program, which conducted its third year of classes on the theme of | “Community and Governance.” (The program is taught over a four-year period). They attended three weeks of intensive classes in Wilmette and completed ten months of home study work. Students reported bringing at least six people into the Faith, founding one spiritual assembly and helping establish










and two grou


one Baha’{ center. Plans for the fourth year’s courses will be finalized soon.

‘The Wilmette Institute established a second educational program, “Studie: in the Baha’i Faith,” consisting of di tance-education courses requiring no residential requirement. Two series of were offered: “Exploring ’u'llih’s Revelation” and “World Religions: An Integrated Approach.” Three courses were completed in 1998, four were started in early 1999 with five more planned for later that year, and five more were scheduled for early 2000. Approximately 250 students took distance education courses in 1998-99. Many reported increased enthusiasm in nd greater efforts at teaching the th. As the adm rative machinery and policies for distance-education courses are standardized, more courses will be initiated.

‘The Institute launched a major public











PROPERTIES

maintenance of other Baha’{ properties, well as conducting the summer youth program with thirteen individuals who assisted with cleaning, concrete repairs, documentation, and bird protection tasks.

‘The Conservation staff will continue to research new and innovative techniques for the conservation of the ornamental cor crete. Current challenges include locating quality quartz materials and ascertaining the critical technical details of the Earley Studios process to best restore the concrete surfaces. These techniques continue to exceed the current standards for concrete restoration and will provide a rich source of information for future generations.

‘The success of these activities has been measured not only in the quality of the care that the Temple and other Baha’ properties receive, but also in the positive image of the Faith in the preservation industry and community at large.








Or the past year the Properties department has maintained the

Baha’ House of Worship, the National Center administration building, the Haziratu’l-Quds, the Publishing Trust, the Baha’i Home, the Properties buildings and two residences in the Wilmette/Evanston area. It provided management assistance for eighteen other properties in the United States, including the three permanent schools, the Wilhelm Properties, plus the Louis G. Gregory and Native American Bal Institutes. Inspections and consultation with local property administrators and facility managers helped to assure consistent standards for maintenance, repair, additions and new construction at all properties and facilities owned by the National Spiritual Assembly.

The scope of management and mainte



nance included: the sale of surplus property; cleaning, repairing, and construction designing replacement parts and material; grounds maintenan ‘ach property is a spiritual trust that must be maintained with the highest standards of quality workmanship, maii nance, repair, and expansion in a m: that is befitting of property owned by the National Spiritual Assembly and used for the progress of the Cause of Baha'u'llah.

Consultation with the Treasurer's Office revealed that substantial important projects had to be deferred this past year due to inadequate fund contributions. The heating and air conditioning systems at the Baha’i National Center have exceeded their useful life. Replacing these systems will cost in excess of $100,000. Replacing the steps on the circular walkway around the ‘Temple with sloping sidewalks to accommodate handicapped persons had to be postponed. Air conditioning for the House of Worship will cost in excess of $500,000 and has once again been deferred. These are only a small sampling of important projects that are deferred year after year because fund contributions continue to be well below the goals set by the National Spiritual Assembly.

The Properties department supports the teaching efforts of all departments by insuring that their immediate work environments and support facilities are maintained in a pristine condition. The Properties department makes every effort to insure that physical conditions do not hamper the ability of fellow employees to provide support services to and for the National Spiritual Assembly and its agen, Baha’is and other visitors, and other organizations that are guests of the National Spiritual Assembly.

The following services were provided during the last year: the construction and installation of an equipment console in the Media studio; management of the contract to install a fire sprinkler system in the Baha’{ Home; maintenance of walk and driveway surfaces during fair and inclement weather; maintenance and













ity plan for its programs, including publishing two pamphlets and mailing 5,500 copies of them to Baha'is and Baha’ tutions, systematically submitti to The American Babd’i, expanding ee Wilmette Institute’s web site by updating its twenty-four-hour information line, and further developing The Lamp, newsletter,

As a result of the generosity of a Baha’s family, the Institute established the cholarship Endowment. The other endowment funds grew





modestly. ‘The Wilmette Ins


‘itute is constantly planning for the future. Its course schedule lready set for 1999-2000, and it plans to develop courses in Baha’{ history and the life and writings of ‘Abdu’lBaha for 2001. It is penis the new educational possibilities created by the World Wide Web and is looking at eventual accreditation.





repair of the Hazfratu’l-Quds and its associated grounds; management of a contract to replace fifty-year-old deteriorated plumbing and to upgrade facilities at the Assistant Secretary's residence to acceptable ndards; and maintenance and upgrade of security system:

Routine daily custodial maintenance of all ies in the Evanston and Wilmette area consisted, in part, of cleaning 300 plus windows each quarter year; cleaning and resupplying restrooms at least 1,850 times; stripping and waxing all hard-surfaced floors semiannually; cleaning 1,700 dl in the House of Worship Auditorium and in Foundation Hall; and over 570 hours spent setting up meeting and activity rooms. More than 1,050 work orders, ranging from making keys to maintaining the electric, heating, and ventilating systems to carpentry tasks, were successfully completed.

During the summer months, when the House of Worship is open to the public from 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. daily, there is an additional requirement for personnel to perform necessary maintenance. Last year two seasonal employees were hired for custodial maintenance. Since summer weather causes weeds to grow faster than the flowers, it also causes greater demand for grounds and garden maintenance. Last year four seasonal employees were hired in the grounds maintenance section. One seasonal employee was needed for the facilities maintenance section, but, unfortunately, no one could be located who had the skills required. The Properties department anticipates a much larger number of visitors to the House of Worship in the coming year. ‘This will result in a greater need for additional custodial and facilities maintenance staff, and it has become increasingly difficult to find qualified people to fill these se: sonal staffing needs.

‘The Properties department will continue to provide the highest quality level of service to maintain all facilities and grounds for the National Spiritual Assembly. Its desire is to demonstrate that Baha’ institutions are setting an example for others to follow.















June 24, 1999,

Tue American BanA’i e ANNUAL Rerort 1999 _page 37 [Page 38]

BAHA'I PUBLICATIONS

aha’i Publications ns of communications for the onal Spiritual Assembly. se communications come in the form of books, magazines, newsprint, audiotapes, videotapes, broadcast programming, audio/video technical support for live events, audiovisual archives nd library services, and, most recently, of the Internet. Baha'i Publications the activities of. the Bab the — Baha’f Distribution Service, Media Services, Subscriber The American Baba’t, Brilliant Star, and World Order magazine, whose purpo and to inform, to educate, and to unify.

The most significant issue that emerged during the past year was the unity of vision of Baha’{ Publications with the National Teaching Committee in advancing the process for entry by troops. This heightened level of interagency cooperation produced six significant activities

1. The production of broadcast, videos in support of the national teaching plan in collaboration with the National ‘Teaching Committee.

2. The honing of the design and content of Baha’{ periodicals and_ special communications that better reflect the intended message of National Spiritual Assembly.

3. The increased publication and distribution of Baha’i teaching materials.

. The physical move of the Baha’s Distribution Service from Chattanooga, ‘Tennessee, to Fulton County, Georgia, to be prepared for the final year of f the Four Year Plan.

5. An increased emphasis on marketing, with the creation of an e-commerce web site, to make available Baha’ Distribution Service products over the Internet, and a greater collaboration with NSA-owned retail sales outlets at the national Baha’i schools and at the Baha’ House of Worship.

6. The development of a new publishing organization designed to establish a presence for Baha’ literature in general trade bookstores and public libraries.

MEDIA BROADCASTING

lie American Baha’s community is q

in the midst of a rapidly changing, multifaceted outreach for the hearts and souls of America. The driving force is the national teaching plan using the media, a plan designed to reach the general public with the message on a scale never before realized in the United States. After collaborating with the Satellite Initiative | Development





















Corporation to produce The Power of

Race Unity last year, Media Services ini


PUBLISHING

tiated production of a major thirtyminute broadcast video for the media campaign entitled Two Wings—The Equality of Women and Men for the media campaign.

Media Services is following a path traced by the convergence of various digital technologies occurring in the world today and is better learning how to integrate its audio, video, print) media and_telecommunications s. In light of unfolding — technological advances, Media Services has acquired the tools—Softimage D/S non-linear edit system—and upgraded facilit needed to generate better and more dynamic television content. Demographic research provided by the national me mpaign facilitated betion-making with regard to conIn its fourth year of resource building, Media Services now has personnel who are able to implement ickly, thereby converting strategic choices into concrete actions.

PERIODICALS AND COMMUNICATIONS TO THE BAHA'I COMMUNITY

between Media

(Geltorten ervices and the National

Teaching Committee has never been more consistent or systematic. As a result of the national teaching plan using the media, Media Services also has improved its internal communications capability.

‘The National Teaching Committee, as the chief executor of the plan, has engaged Media Services to assist it in accomplishing the following objectives:

1. To acquaint the Baha’i community with the components, structure and aims of the plan.

. To update the Baha’i community frequently on the accomplishments and victories.

3. To help the friends identify intimately with its goals.

4. To assist in the production and promotion of proclamation materials.

Communications products developed during the past year included the broadcast programs already mentioned, three Babd’t Newsreels, support materials such as the national teaching plan reminder card, and special communications such as the Baha’i Temple restoration video, two NTC update videos and the Baha’f International vention video.

The American Babd’t and Brilliant Star magazine have honed their designs and editorial content to clearly reflect the direction of the National Spiritual Assembly and to be more attractive to readers.

World Order magazine has included features on spirituality and on the equality of women and men, reflecting themes of the national teaching plan. ‘The Editorial Board is being expanded by three persons, and a new design and concerted marketing approach are planned. Remaining true to its purpos











tent.















es, World Order strives to stimulate, inspire, and serve thinking people in their search to find relationships between contemporary life and contemporary religious teachings and philosophy and to focus on topics of broad concern from a Baha’i perspecThe National Spiritual Assembly’s Office of External Affairs, the Office of Public Information, and the U.S. United Natio: office continue to send 300. cop ue to selected mailing lists to ffai work. Local spiritual encouraged to do likew

BOOK PUBLISHING

aes Baha'i Publishing Trust published a total of thirty-six proje

eleven new titles, three new editions, twenty-two reprints. For the first ten months of the financial year, 35% of BDS sales were from U.S. Baha Trust titles and 65% were from other publishers. This was a significant increas over last year when only 27% of total dollar sales were BPT titles. This is due to three factors: first, more publishing projects were completed during the past year than ever before in the history of the Publishing Trust; second, new titles from other major publishers were fewer in number than in previous years; and, third, there has been an erosion of sales of distributed items. A trend has emerged for assemblies and individuals to purchase directly from publishers rather than through BDS. Despite the falling off of distributed sales, Publishing Trust sales remain strong. The Trust is looking at the best sales year ever for BPT titles in terms of units sold and the second best year in terms of revenue.

During the past year, publishing priorities were reset, the publishing agenda was clarified, and processes were simplified. The publishing priorities of the Publishing Trust reflect the direction and urgency of the Four Year Plan. The publishing priorities are:

1. Directives and statements of the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly.

2. Sacred and authoritative Texts.

3. Teaching materials.

4. Most popular titles.

5. Other titles that fall within the publishing agenda.

‘The overarching publishing agenda emphasizes two major themes: individual spiritual transformation and influencing the life of society.

In 1998 the Editorial Boards of the Baha’i Publishing Trust completed their two-year term of service. Because of the change in publishing priorities, the need to simplify processes and the need to reduce expenses, the editorial boards were not reappointed.

‘The new titles and new editions published between May of 1998 and April of 1999 include: Issues Related to the Study of the Bahd’t Faith: Extracts from letters written on bebalf of the Universal House of Justice; Too Wings of a Bird: The Equality of





















Women and Men (new general ed.); A Guide to Studying Messages from the Universal House of Justice, 1963-1986; Quickeners of Mankind; “The Light of Unity: The Power of Prayer”; “The Light of Unity: Equality of Women and Men”; “The Straight Path”; Date Book BE 156; Baha'i Calendar BE 156; Love, Power and Justice; The Divine Art of Revelation; Like Pure Gold; A Prayer for Fluffy; and Ali's Dream.

DISTRIBUTION of March 1, 1999, year-to-date ross sales were $1.21 million. Thi represents a 9% drop from the same period last year. Total units shipped,








shift in the type of materials being purchased through the Distribution Se Sales will be further dampened with the National Convention held in Foundation Hall this year, as attendance will be restricted.

‘Total revenue for each unit sold averaged $4.08, a significant drop from $5.48 per unit for the first ten months of the last fiscal year. This drop is due to a shift in the type of mate! purchased through BDS. As the teaching campaign has intensified, the friends have purchased fewer books and more teaching materials. This development is significant because it reflects wid response to the teaching init Cs However, the National Spiritual Assembly faces a continuing challenge in the form of financially supporting production and distribution of these materials, which are costly to produce, expensive to distribute, and yield a much lower return than full margin to the drop ii in sales and lower revenue per unit, greater emphasis will be placed on marketing and sales, and approval has been given to hire a marketing-oriented assis manager for the Distribution S: greater degree of collaboration with the bookstores at the national schools and at the House of Worship has been achieved, and this is bound to reap positive results as well.

In August 1998, the National Spiritual Assembly instructed Baha’i Publications to accelerate plans for selecting a site and relocating the Baha’ Distribution Service in order to be wellsituated before the final year of the Four Year Plan. BDS responded by analyzing a wide variety of possible sites, recommending the optimum location, obtaining approval, moving, and restarting the distribution operation in less than five months. With the valuable assistance of the National Center departments of Information Services, the Office of the Treasurer, Properties and Human Resources, BDS was up and running in 's new facility in Fulton County, Georgia, by January 5, 1999. All but wo staff members chose to move to the new location in order to continue service for

the Faith.



















page 38

Tue AMERICAN BanA’i * ANNUAL Rerort 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 39]

INTERNET COMMUNICATION AND COMMERCE


he Baha’i I ibution Service and

the Information Services department of the Baha’f National Center have collaborated to create a web site that will become the Internet retail sales location for Bah tapes, and related material. The site will be online by April 1999 at http://www.bahaibookThis site will support

the teaching initiative, increase sales, reduce pressure on telephone sales and customer service, and establish a legitimacy that is associated with maintaining an attractive web site. The BDS web site, as a complement of the media campaign strategy, will give customers the opportunity to browse BDS products, the images, read d books, and spend whatever time is need








NATIONAL BAHA'I ARCHIVES


ole National Baha’i Archives is responsible for the acquisition, arrangement, storage and preservation of National Baha’i Archives colle including Sacred Writings and r




Guardian’s letters, National Spiritual Assembly records and other archival collections. archival

It provides research and services to the National mbly and its agencies and ns, local communities and individual researchers. It further works to maintain, develop and expand the National Baha’s Library and to improve access to library material by Baha’i National Center offices and scholars.

In the past year, the Archives worked to the maturation of Baha’s institutions through research services offered to the Baha’i World Center, the National Spiritual Assembly and _ its agencies, and to other national and local spiritual assemblies. These services provided historical and biographical information about individuals and communities, located requested files in inactive records, provided photocopies of documents and advice on the care of records, and supervised use of the National Baha’i Library. In addition to responding to 171 research requests from various institutions of the Faith, the Archives provided historical information or photographs to several local spiritual assemblies that celebrated 50th or 100th anniversaries. An important task of the National Baha’s Archives is to assist other assemblies with the development of their archives. Last year the Archives sent information on local records and archives to twenty-three local communities in sixteen states. It











ed to make a decision. Shopping cart technology will allow visitors to order as they browse.

PUBLISHING FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC

i October 1998, the National piritual Assembly voted to initiate the planning for the creation of a new publishing entity to provide Baha’iinspired publications to trade bookstores and libraries. A senior industry consultant was hired, and development is under way. A full plan will be presented to the National Spiritual Assembly in July 1999. The National ‘itual Assembly also approved the immediate recruitment of staff, the selection of a name and logo, and research for key trade marketing and distribution relationships. This new entity will likely operate under the umbrella of Baha’









cations. It will be separate from the Publishing st and Distribution Service, which are geared toward a Baha’i audience. The National Spiritual Assembly understands that this is a long-term undertaking. This enterprise will require at least two years of development with a very high investment over the next four to five years to make a positive impression on the very competitive and expensive commercial book trade.




A mong the anticipated issues that face aha’i Publications in the coming year, the four most important are:

1. The production of a wider array of media materials in support of the national teaching plan, including video programs for the home and cable markets and Internet resources for seeke

2. The need to develop further internal communications products to better




SERVICES


> established a close collaboration with the new archivist of the Canadian National Baha’i Archives, as well as sending archival information to the National Spiritual Assemblies of Australia, Spain and Alaska.

In anticipation of entry by troops, when there will be a significant increase in the number of scholars who need assistance from the Archives, the department works constantly to expand the number of processed archival collections. During the past year thirteen new collections of personal papers were prod and opened. The Archives also provided publishers with thirty-seven copies of historical photographs for illustrations in various publications. It is gratifying to observe that growing numbers of publishers are realizing that the Archives has one of the largest collec tions of Baha’f historical photographs in the world. The collection was increased last year by 1,246 photographs, making a total of 15,404 photographs on file. In addition, since the National Baha’i Library is an important reference source for the Baha’{ National Center, the Archives worked to expand its literary collections, adding — 3,327 ems. Furthermore, in an effort to provide assistance to future Media Service productions, the Archives Motion Picture m Collection was organized and currently contains sixty-two different films.

‘The Archives encourages, where possible, the transformation of individuals through its support of Bal cholarship, historical publications, and the appreciation of Baha’i history. The resources of the Archive: scholars to increase the historical and biographical literature of the Faith— often assist in teaching and consolidation activities. Last year fourteen scholars visited the Archives, researching topics concerning five local communities, four individual Baha’is, and other topics, such as the Shrine of the Bab. One Baha'i artist pursued using information about Dorothy Baker to prepare













a dramatic presentation to add to her repertoire. Another ambitious project involved researching the early history of the Faith in Central and South America in the Archives’ —Inter-America Committee Records. Three books and one World Order article were published last year, all of which used research from the Archives.

‘The Archives also assisted local communities with local race unity ac by supplying, on request, sets of biographical sketches of prominent Baha’is from minority backgrounds. Last year the sketches were revised, and a chronology of race unity activities in the United States was added. To reinforce use of the biographical sketches, the Archives also provided fifty-two copies of historical photographs for race unity or other local community displays or publicity.

The work of the National Baha’i Archives probably will not undergo any major changes in the coming year beyond) working with Information Services to implement new digital technologies to preserve the Archives collections of audiotapes and. electronic records. One challenge we expect to face in the future, however, is providing fast and efficient service without an increase in staff, since requests for services from the Archives have been gradually increasing.







HUMAN RESOURCES

‘he Human Resources department

serves the needs of the National piritual Assembly in the areas of new staff recruitment, the administration of staff benefits, and management of employee relations. This office also provides staffing for the main switchboard and reception area, through which thou


inform, educate, and inspire the friends—particularly youth and new believers—using the full range of communications media.

3. The uncertainty of demand for Baha'i Publications as we approach an unprecedented influx of seekers and new believers, which may exhaust supplies, strain customer service, and require rapid investments in inventory.

4. The low circulation of subscriptionbased Baha’f periodicals. This is creating a budgeting problem when many other projects of the National Center also need funding. It suggests that the periodicals must become more attractive to their target audience.

‘The future overall looks bright with the prospect of new markets for Baha’i books being opened and the results of the teaching plan yielding fruit. Demand for Baha’ literature should increase correspondingly.






sands of phone calls and many visitors are received at the Baha'i National Center each year.

This past year, the offices at the National Center experienced a need to recruit staff with ever greater degrees of technical and professional skills. Human Resources sees a benefit to establishing youth/adult internships through contact with college clubs and universities who may be able to provide a list of graduates or potential graduates who may be interested in serving at the Baha'i National Center. A vigorous effort will be made in the coming year to recruit youth, retired professionals, and those who may wish to take sabbaticals from careers, ranging from approximately three months to two years, to take advantage of such believers’ specialized capacities.

In the area of employee orientation, the Human Resources department has worked and will continue to focus on helping the staff to understand its spiritual purpose as servants of the National iritual Assembly. Human Resources intends to provide monthly orientations and will make available excerpts from the Sacred Writings on service, humility, trustworthiness, unity, trust and other subjects of importance in the workplace. Tours of the offices at the Baha’i National Center will be included in such orientations, as well as guidance regarding appropriate attire for those serving the National Center and the House of Worship. The challenge has been to put a system in place which will insure the smooth daily operations of the office so that more time may be devoted to the development of an overall Human Resources strategy.

Human Resources anticipates making advances in the area of employee development by making training programs and career development opportunities available in areas such as effective communications, management and other administrative work done on behalf of the.National Spiritual Assembly.









June 24, 1999

Tue AMERICAN BAnA’i ¢ ANNUAL Rerort 1999 page 39 [Page 40]


ver the last few years the Baha’i

National Center’s usage of and dependence upon technology have grown substantially.

Whereas before there were only a few computers that helped with certain tasks, now computers are everywhere, used by everyone on a daily basis. Computer network technology has contributed directly to increases in efficiency in the work of the National Center. ‘The use of e-mail has skyrocketed in the last few years. One project undertaken by Information Services (IS) has been the migration to MS Exchange Server and Outlook Mail throughout the organization. The National Center office building has been converted and the House of Worship will be converted as soon as the connectivity to the National Center building has been improved with a new wireless connection. The MS Exchange conversion will be conducted next at the Office of External Affairs in Washington, DC, and at the Baha’i Distribution Service in suburban Atlanta. Other sites will then follow.

LSAL (Local Spiritual Assembly Integration) software has been through several changes during the past year. Some of the challenges in this area are the rapid changes in the Internet and in the software that takes advantage of the Internet. The LSAI Project has been restructured to take advantage of the new software in a more “off the shelf” way. The project has a two-tiered approach: the original design specifications called for both a “thick client” and a “thin client,” but it had been progressing down the “thick client” only. We now have both “thin” and “thick” clients close to beta testing.

During the past year a review of the National Center's Y2K compliance was conducted. Information Services already has modified or verified as correct most major systems. The membership database, all Internet-based systems, all servers, and the network equipment are Y2K compliant. Upgrades and conversions were made to the accounting software used by the Treasurer’s Office to Y2K compatible versions. Y2K compliance testing and upgrading will continue. Information Services does not expect much impact from Y2K problems on systems internal to the National Center.

In the past year the Information Services department faced numerous challenges, both in human resources and with equipment reliability. Shortages in qualified personnel have been a major hurdle. In the coming year, the department will focus both on increasing the number of staff and on obtaining personnel who possess high qualifications. ‘The challenge will be to bring this new group of people together as a team.

In addition to serious staff shortages, there were numerous computer and

telephone outages during the past year. There were several incidents where equipment just wore out. For example, the connection points of the network at 1233 Central had to be replaced as they were no longer working reliably. Several such circumstances were due to external forces—most were weather-related as several storms knocked out both the electrical power and telephone service to the building. Early in the year the local electric utility lost the main power feed (cable) into the National Center office building, resulting in fourteen hours of out-of-phase power. One phase was out completely; another phase seemed to work; and the third phase worked intermittently, causing harm to some of the computer and telephone hardware. This contributed to problems with computer network equipment later in the year. Hard drives in our main network server were lost three times in the fall. The server is set up to survive hard drive failure. The first and second times the drives were lost, the server was only down for a matter of an hour or so, and no data was lost. The third time, though, when the hard drive was replaced, the server did not come right back up as it was supposed to do. It had additional problems that, once they were fixed and the server was brought back up, rendered the — system _ unreliable. Consequently, it was necessary to replace the system with a new NT-based server.

‘The outage taught the IS department that better backups and more redundancy of service were needed. All systems in the network have been reevaluated, and strong emphasis is being placed on reliability and “uptime” in the computer network. IS has identified which services are more necessary than others and has started to put into place “redundant” systems for these services. Additional servers that run as “redundant” servers to our mission-critical servers have been added. This real-time replication software is being set up on two servers which are in-house already. This solution provides nearly instantaneous takeover if a server that it is set,up as a replicated server stops functioning.

Another of the issues that came out during the network outage last fall was the lack of documentation of what systems are in place and how they interact together. A project is underway to document every facet of the IS department and will include in-depth disaster planning.

‘To increase connectivity and reliability, frame relay circuits are being installed between the National Center and its distant offices. This year we are connecting the Baha’i Distribution Service, offices in the suburbs of Atlanta, and the Office of External Affairs in Washington, DC. In the future this will be expanded to include the Baha’{ Schools, the Regional Baha’i Council offices, and other offices as appropriate.

Challenges that face Information Services in the next year include continuing to improve the reliability of the computer network and phone systems.


‘The computer network at the National Center campus will be expanded to include the Hazfratu’l-Quds, the 121 Linden Avenue property, the Baha’ Home for the Aged and the Baha’i Publishing Trust. The network will be beefed up to increase the bandwidth between the House of Worship and the National Center building by the installation of a wireless network between those

properties.


‘he Meetings and Travel Office pro vides the National Spiritual Assembly and its committees and agencies with meeting planning services, loving hospitality and welcome, and travel services. Its goal is to provide these services in the most loving and caring way, but with an efficiency and cost-effectiveness that protects the funds.

‘To improve its services, a major reorganization was undertaken during the past year. New departmental procedures for the handling of travel requests and new guidelines for on-site meetings were introduced. A new corporate volume discount of 5% for air travel was negotiated with United Airlines, representing a potential savings of $20,000 annually. A new corporate charge-card program was initiated with a waiver of all individual charge card fees. A new travel agency agreement was negotiated, which resulted in the elimination of service fees and an arrangement to share commissions paid by vendors. The ground transportation provider to the Evanston/Wilmette area was changed, resulting in a 15% savings.

With these major operational improvements completed, the Meetings and ‘Travel Office’s goals will be to further improve the way our guests are welcomed, to provide for the meeting needs of committees, agencies, and departments, and to respond to travel requests, while developing more efficient and cost-effective ways to provide these servi




‘he Public Safety department is responsible for safety and security at the Baha’{ National Center. It serves the staff, volunteers, visitors, special guests and members of the National Spiritual Assembly. The security of all properties, including the House of Worship, the National Center offices, the Publishing Trust, the Baha’i Home, the Haziratu’l-Quds and other properties must be maintained. In order to provide for the safety and

security of the House of Worship, Public Safety officers regularly patrol both the interior and exterior of the building every day, accomplishing approximately 16,800 patrols yearly. The officers also have the honor of greeting and serving all late-night visitors to the House of Worship. This past year there were 8,143 late-night visitors. Officers enjoy greeting them all, answering their questions about the building and the Faith, and inviting them to return when the House of Worship reopens.

All of the remaining properties, the Haziratu’l-Quds, the Publishing Trust, the Baha’i Home, the National Center and two residences require constant vehicular patrols and foot rounds to ensure their safety and security. To meet this challenge, officers provided approximately 7,500 vehicular/foot rounds last year to these properties.

Providing service to the staff, volunteers and visitors is accomplished in many different ways. Officers responded to approximately 2,500 calls for service, including transportation of staff and/or materials, lockout of autos, traffic direction, personal injury accidents and so on. Public Safety monitors and maintains the access control to buildings and the alarm and video systems for all Baha’s properties, as well as providing for the safety and security of all special events and meetings on Baha’{ properties. This often includes assisting in setting up the event, traffic direction on the parking lots and streets, assisting visitors to appropriate parking, and assisting physically challenged individuals into the events. Public Safety also has the distinct honor to serve the members of the Continental Counselors, the National Spiritual Assembly and the Regional Baha’ Council members by planning and providing for their transportation when they are in town.

‘The department is faced with the challenge of providing a safe and secure environment for everyone at the Baha’i National Center while coexisting in a society that has crime, accidents, injuries and special community events or needs. Public Safety officers respond to and investigate all incidents, accidents, injuries, alarms, suspicious situations and unusual circumstances that occur on Baha'i properties twenty-four hours daily and regularly interact with the police, fire, and other agencies in the local community. Furthermore, the department constantly trains to ensure its officers are able to meet any challenge.

In the past year the Public Safety department experienced three vacancies in its ten-member staff. This resulted in many hours spent advertising, interviewing and conducting background investigations to attract qualified persons for service at the National Center. The department is confident, nevertheless, that it will be able to provide the necessary services for the safety and security of the everincreasing numbers of Baha’is and other visitors who will visit the National Center in the coming year.








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ealth for Humanity (HH) cele brated its seventh anniversary

on Naw-Riz 1999, continuing to strengthen its operations each year. Domestic and international development projects are ongoing. In addition to its headquarters office in the Chicago area, which conducts a preschool literacy project that receives grants from three foundations (including the W.K. Kellogg Foundation), regional Health for Humanity Networks are established in eight other locales across the country. These HH Networks manage their own operations with guidance from the national office, and they conduct a variety of SED programs such as marriage enrichment, smoking cessation, wellness clubs, new mother training/support, after-school tutoring and so on.

Health for Humanity volunteers travel to all continents providing service and training in the health and community development arena. This taxexempt, nongovernmental organization has focused on long-term projects in Albania, Guyana, Honduras, Cameroon and China and is expanding international work in Bolivia (partnered with Universidad Nur), the Central African Republic, Ecuador, Ethiopia and the United States, among others. The Health for Humanity Board is particularly interested in exploring a wider range of options in China.

Support from the Soros, the Mary Jane Crowe, and the Saul and Deborah Sherman Foundations provided a nificant portion of HH’s international operating budget this year, while an annual fund-raising event (raising $40,000 in August 1998) and member contributions continue to grow each year. Health for Humanity is entirely self-funded. During the last fiscal year HH provided over $454,000 worth of assistance to projects and programs in the United States and across the globe. An elegant annual report, “The Joy of Service,” is available free of charge from the Health for Humanity office (467 Jackson Ave., Glencoe, IL 60022 USA).












of Mottahedeh

‘he — mission Development Services (MDS) is to promote Baha’i social and economic development (SED) to stimulate action in the spirit of service to humankind. Its

vision is a Baha’i community in which active service to the larger community is an immediate and organic expression of Faith, leading to the strengthening and expansion of the Baha’{ community. The past year saw MDS continue its support for specific demonstration projects, but emphasized its role in providing training and resources to stimulate local communities in their efforts to initiate social and economic development projects as a strategy of service essential to the development of vibrant i’i communities ‘To help communities engage in this. process, MDS has established training workshops throughout the United States whereby the friends can obtain a basic understanding and initial experience needed to promote SED in their own home communities. Thus far, a few training workshops have been held, and more will be set up in different parts of the United States during the coming year. MDS invites individuals and assemblies to sponsor individuals to attend future MDS SED Facilitator ‘Training Workshops being planned in each of the four regions of the United States. Workshops have been given at Louhelen, Bosch, and Green Acre Baha’{ Schools, with upcoming workshops scheduled for Atlanta, Geor; and Brighton Creek, Washington. MDS has appointed a network of regional coordinators and facilitators. The coordinators are individuals who have already been trained as SED facilitators, or who have significant skills in this area, and who can serve to coordinate the training of ad nal facilitators within one of the regions. These coordinators may conduct the training or organize and plan the training. The coordinators will identify—with the assistance of the Regional Baha’i Councils, the Counselors and Auxiliary Board members—individuals to be trained as facilitators within their regions. The coordinator will act as a team leader, developing a team of fa itators to serve the Regional Councils, Assemblies and ‘Training Institutes within the region. The coordinator will communicate with the Regional Baha’i Councils and serve to identify facilitators to assist specific communities or to conduct specific training. In order to do the above, the coordinator will evaluate the skills of the facilitators to consider who is best able to fulfill different tasks. MDS just published Developing Patterns of Community Life—A Guide to Consultation on The Process of Social and Economic Development for Bahd’i Communities. This practical manual presents both the supportive Baha’i writings and a ten-step method for planning, initiating and managing social and economic development projects. The guidebook has been developed by practitioners from both North and South America who have been involved in some of the most successful Baha'i development projects. It is presented in a manner that can be used











SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ©

either in training communities or by local spiritual assemblies or other consultative groups as they go through their planning process. MDS_ has arranged for the translation and publication of this manual in Spanish by Nur University, and translations into Portuguese and French are also being discussed on the initiative of communi

ties that speak those languages. MDS is now working on a supportive facilitators guide to assist the facilitators with their skills in conducting workshops, consulting with communities, and managing projects.

MDS continues to support the Family Unity Institute in DeKalb unty, Georgia. However, it seeks to transfer responsibility for program development to the local community. This program highly successful, incorporating a number of SED projects, such as Dawnbreaker ‘Toastmasters, parenting classes, and a Friday night basketball youth program. During the school year 1998-1999, MDS continued to support the Star Program, an after-school tutorial and basketball program, involving fifty families. During the first few years the after-school program was supported by grants; the program is now primarily self-supporting, needing little assistance from MDS.

‘The Baha’i community and the community at large are rich in social and economic development _ resource: However, communities seeking to initiate SED projects often are unable to locate helpful resources. MDS now finds itself in the position of and will continue to serve as a resource broker. Its office will continue to connect capaities to needs through its web page and newsletter. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has renewed the registration of MDS as a private voluntary organization. The agency focuses on creating strategic partnerships that leverage financial and programmatic support for development education and training.

Last year MDS, at the request of individuals interested in a business forum, appointed a Leadership Team for the Baha’i Business Forum of the Americas (BBFA). There are three important initiatives that the BBFA Leadership ‘Team is pursuing. One the Internet forum that provides an opportunity for discussion among those interested in this topic. The second is the development of Local Enterprise Advisory Boards that will serve as support networks for Baha’is seeking to develop enterprise. These are to serve as business “incubators” and a support/learning system for Baha’is at the local level. The third is the development of an educational/training process that will include the development of a curriculum on Baha’{ Centered Management and the presentation of this curriculum on an on-going basis at one or more Baha’i schools. BBFA has appointed a
















Curriculum Development ‘Team and is collaborating with the Green Acre Baha’ School to develop an education process that can serve Baha’fs in business, administrators, and eventually serve the community of like-minded individuals. Members of the Leadership Team are closely collaborating with the European Baha’i Business Forum, presented at their annual conference this year and are heduled for next year, and have agreed to share all training materials and programs developed.

MDS is a member of the Micro Credit Summit Council and was asked to present an Institutional Action Plan Summary. Mr. Hillary Chapman presented the plan, which included goals for Micro-credit services and public awareness. The goal of the Summit is to raise one million women out of poverty by the year 2005 by giving loans to individuals. Several MDS members


presented projects at the Rabbani Charitable Trust Conference for the Americas in Orlando, Florida, presenting several case studies on MDS projects in McLean, Virginia, and South DeKalb

County, Georgia, related to ies, and parenting. collaborates with Nur Bolivia through the efforts of board member Dr. Beth Bowen. MDS has assisted educators and specialists to develop a common vision of social and economic development and to apply this knowledge in the development of appropriate local projects. Computers were donated to Senegal and Poland through a project in which MDS served as a resource broker to provide computers to Baha’{ stitutions in several countries. MDS. assists with Indian youth scholarships to study rural agriculture in Colombia. The training will take place at FUNDAEC, an institution dedicated to serving rural and urban people in Colombia, in the fields of education, environment and the promotion of small enterprises.

MDS plans to continue all of the above initiatives and to focus on expanding assistance to local communities in their efforts to build vibrant Baha’i communities. MDS believes that its mission is entirely consistent with the directives of the Four Year Plan and that its contribution to this plan is the development of Baha’f communities that meet the diverse needs of its members to be of service to humanity, an expression that is essential to confirming one’s Faith. Through a process of training that will be made available to all Baha’i Schools and ‘Training Institutes, and through the development of facilitators to assist local communities, MDS will assist in fulfilling the Guardian’s requirement for largescale growth: “Until the public sees in the Baha’i community a true pattern, in action, of something better than it already has, it will not respond to the Faith in large numbers.”









June 24, 1999 Tue American BanA’i ¢ Annuat Rerort 1999

page 41 [Page 42]


ANNUAL REPORTS OF THE REGIONAL BAHA’i COUNCILS REGIONAL BAHA'I COUNCIL OF THE CENTRAL STATES"

THE PROGRESS OF THE TEACHING AND CONSOLIDATION WORK

¢ primary task of the Council

was the development and imple mentation of an expansion and consolidation plan that contained all the elements of the national teaching plan. The Regional Expansion and Consolidation Plan was developed following study of the Tablets of the Divine Plan specific to the Central States, the Ridvan 153 and Ridvan 154 messages of the Universal House of Justice, an assessment of the region through reports of the Regional Committee, and in consultation with member of the Continental Board of Counselors Stephen Birkland, as well as consultation and dialogue with local


spiritual assemblies and i uals in the region. Following the approval of the

National Spiritual Assembly, the plan was released to all local spiritual assemblies and registered groups in the region on August 5, 1998. The five major goals of the plan are advanced through correspondence with the communities in the Central States, meetings with communities and assemblies, and appointments of agencies of the Regional Baha’{ Council of the Central States.

During the course of the last year, the Council or its representatives met with members of each national committee. The purpose of these meetings was to glean an understanding of the work of the committees and receive their thoughts and concerns about the Central States region, to identify ways to work together, to share the intent of the Council to form regional committees, and to seek input regarding appointments to these committees. The Council has met with the National Teaching Committee twice, the first time in early 1998 when the regional plan was in the early stages of formulation, and again in December 1998 for the purpose of collaborating on a media project. The media project now is in the early pha of development. The National Teaching Committee and the Regional Baha’i Council also collaborated on a conference focusing on Regional ‘Training Institutes.

‘To advance the regional plan further, Council representatives have made an effort to attend a variety of seasonal schools and conferences and focused their presentations on this topic.

On August 5, 1998, the Council sent a letter and plans to all local spiritual assemblies and registered groups with goals and plans. be viewed as the start of the community-building process among the Bahé’is of the Central States. The Council then met with local spiritual assemblies, communities, and individuals to di cuss regional plans and goals. ‘These meetings proved to be both informa















tional and relational, in that they provided opportunities for Council members and local Baha’is to share ideas and form loving and caring relationships. ‘Tremendous value was found in meeting the friends face-to-face, as this allowed the opportunity for them to see and relate to the institution in a more personal way.

The Council has established four regional youth committees composed of Baha’{ youth representatives from throughout the region. These youth have been selected carefully based upon their service and potential for spiritual leadership. As with all selection for committees, the Council extended every effort to assure gender, race and cultural diversity. The youth committees’ mandate is to “encourage youth to become teachers, administrators, and



full members of the Baha’i community.

Prior to the establishment of the regional youth committees, the Council hosted its first and only conference to date. The Conference of Badasht 150 was held at the Baha’i House of Worship in July 1998. This regional conference was attended by 250 youth, and every state in the region was represented. A feature of this conference was the collective study of the Ridvin 155 message.

The Regional African American ‘Teaching Committee is up and running. Its mandate is to “initiate further expansion of the Faith through advancing the process of entry by troops among African Americans of every stratum of society.” The Regional African American Teaching Committee had its orientation on November 21, 1998. Other committees will be appointed soon.

During all of its meetings with communities, local spiritual assemblies and registered groups, the Council has emphasized the media plan and encouraged communities to use the resources to promote the plan in their local communities. Systems to support local follow-up to inquiries are developing or are in place. To facilitate followup to 800-22-UN) alls, the Council has identified “media reps” in every state. These reps manage seeker information from areas not connected to the














forwarded to th ¢ key indiIs, and they identify the nearest registered group or local spir mbly ard forward the contact inforstem is considered only temporary as its vision is that all coms will, in time, be connected to -UNITE system.

The Council has decided to initiate two major proclamation projects in the region in support of the national teaching plan, one in Columbus, Ohio, and the other in Mil ‘ee, Wisconsin. Both communities have a network of media workers with appr The Council has sugg to o both communities that they form a










working group consisting of three Council members and one or two members of the National ‘Teaching Committee or its staff to oversee the proclamation projects. The projects will consist of three elements: 1) a proclamation campaign, 2) the utilization of research principles in design of the campaign, and 3) an evaluation of the success of the campaign.

Prior to establishing the Regional Committee for the Equality of Women and Men, Council representatives met with the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men. A draft of the regional mandate was shared with that body, and suggestions for a regional committee were obtained. This nal committee is now in the process of appointment. The mission of this committee is to “advance the Baha’i principle of the equality of women and men” in the region of the Central States. It is the intent of the Council that this committee also will work closely with local spiritual assemblies and regional training institutes to fulfill its mandate.

PERCEPTION OF THE REGION'S STRENGTHS AND REQUIREMENTS

bdu’l-Baha defines this region as “like unto the heart of America” and if the “heart is strengthened, all the organs of the body are reinforced, and if the heart is weak all the physical elements are subjected to feebleness.” The Council recognizes that the region of the Central States has many strengths and hopes to bi on these to advance the momentum of the process of entry by troops. A very definite strength is the fact that ‘Abdu’lBaha spent significant time in the central states, visiting Cleveland, Ohio; Chicago, Illinois; Kenosha, si Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota; and Lincoln, Nebraska. It is interesting that these areas, or communities close to these areas, show great promise and have been identified as target areas in the regional plan. The target areas and several other regional strengths that are distinctive in nature are highlighted in this section.

It is the hope of the Council that through establishing loving and collaborative relationships with the institutions of the Faith that the opportunities to serve the national and regional plans through — local ives will be rengthened. A regional strength is inherent in the evolving relationship between the administrative arms of the Faith. In September 1998, the Coun met with Stephen Birkland and the Auxiliary Board members serving the Central St d consultation on the regional expai \d_-consolidation plan and the general distinction in the respective roles of the administrative arms in advancing key components of the plan.






























In the effort first to build and then strengthen relationships between the Council and the local spiritual assemblies and friends, the Council took several initial steps. Following the December 12, 1997, inaugural meeting of the Council, a “love letter” was sent to every local spiritual assembly and group in the region. Simultaneously, every local spiritual assembly was called by a member of the Council to convey greetings, share highlights of the first meeting, and confirm the means to contact the Council.

The Council has a goal to enhance and increase efforts to train human resources in the fundamental verities of the Faith, with particular emphasis given to the development of knowledgeable and active teachers of the Faith. ‘This goal is implemented primarily by means of the activities of Regional ‘Training Institutes. At present there are four in the Central States region:

The Dorothy Baker Institute, Columbus, Ohio.

2. The Gateway Regional Institute, St. Louis, Missouri.

3. The Minnesota Baha’i Minneapolis, Minnesota.

. The Milwaukee Metro Regional Training Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

In addition, there are numerous local training institutes throughout the region in various stages of development.

‘The regional and local training inst tutes now are offering, at varying levels of regularity and sophistication, courses which strengthen teaching and admini: trative skills on the parts of the believers. In the Regional Council’s target areas where no regional training institute yet exists, there is growing clarity of understanding about the ways in which training institutes differ from, and go beyond, traditional Baha’i schools and deepening activities.

‘The response to the national teaching plan using the media is a means of strength in the Central States. Goal three of the Regional Expansion and Consolidation Plan addresses this area, asking the friends to “strengthen and support participation of the national race unity campaign and the media campaign, and efforts to promote racial unity and the equality of women and men.” An example of response to the media plan follows, but ple: note that many communities in the C re responding wholehe ssing the video The Power of Race Unity in showings at libraries, schools, inter






Institute,











u




interesting that the communities that did not receive the transmittal vi cable of The Power of Race Unity responded to the call to participate and are distinguished in their efforts to use the video as a means to share the F: with the public with ativity. Springfield, I





ois, is one of


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Tue American BanA’i * AnnuAL Rerort 1999

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these communities. As a result of their efforts to show the video to the mayor, they became leaders in the community in the area of race unity dialogues, have established a strong relationship with a group of Catholic nuns, and have been featured in local news and newspaper reports for their work in race unity. Most notable is the steady increase in the size of the community through these efforts, especially in the AfricanAmerican population.

Activities that arise from initiative on the part of youth are taking place in Minnesota. The Minnesota Baha’ Institute is consulting on developing a youth institute. Ohio has annual youth conferences and also is planning a youth traveling teaching project. At the same time there are very distinctive youth activities taking place that are a tremendous strength to the region, both in demonstrating the power of youth and the value of a systematic approach. Project Wildfire is an example of a consecrated effort of service to expansion and consolidation. This project is made up of ten youth dedicating one year to serving the region of the Central States. They are under the wing of the local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Little Canada, Minnesota. The Louhelen Baha’i School meeting for Baha’i College Clubs the Central States, sponsored by the National Youth Committee, had an increase in attendance over the last year. The University of Minnesota has responded wholeheartedly to the Open University tasks assigned by the Office of the Secretary for External Affairs.

In the Tablets of the Divine Plan ‘Abdu’l-Bahé reminds us that traveling teaching is successful when done “systematically and enthusiastically.” The Regional Traveling ‘Teacher Coordinator and State Traveling Teacher Coordinator have the respon: bility to identify and place traveling teachers where they will advance the efforts of local plans. This also is an area of exciting human resource development.

The Council identified areas in the region for focused attention. To date, the Council, or representatives of the Council, met with 34% of the local spiritual assemblies in the region of the Central States, and specifically in the target areas of:

  • Pierre, South Dakota.
  • Lincoln, Nebraska.
  • Springfield, Illinois.
  • Chicago, Illin
  • Cleveland, Ohio.
  • Columbus, Ohio.
  • Detroit, Michigan.
  • St. Louis, Missouri.
  • Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota.
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

‘These key areas were chosen because they have demonstrated a working relationship with the Auxiliary Board members, are involved in intercommunity collaboration, have teaching and consolidation plans in place, or the intention to develop and implement such plans, have firesides and devotional meetings, and are home to or have the potential to
















support a Regional Training Institute.

It is the hope of the Council that through a close, loving and collaborative relationship, implementing the components of the regional plan, these areas will become models of Baha’f community life. The Council is in the process of developing specific strategies for each targeted area. These strategies will include helping to create a new vision of growth by encouraging support of current regional training institutes or new regional training institutes, and encouraging spiritual assemblies, groups, task forces and individuals to develop teaching plans and initiatives and to become linked directly with training programs.

‘The Council has met separately and collectively with all four of its training institutes. In April of last year, prior to the management of the training institutes transferring to the Council, the National ‘Teaching mittee, Regional Training Institutes and Auxiliary Board members met together to advance understanding on the ins' tutes’ role and proc

As the Council continues to work to advance the regional plan, there are areas that will require ongoing strategic and systematic development. One challenge that is common among all the institutes is establishing close working relationships with the local spiritual assemblies and friends. In part, the Council believes that as assemblies develop their teaching plans and establish teaching projects, the training institutes will be viewed as a means to acquire skills to better serve those plans and projects.

An additional challenge that has been identified and seems connected to community development, facilitating training programs, and institutional activities is the establishment of a local center. This issue is considered critical by a number of urban communities and in some cases becomes the focus of the teaching plan rather than one strategy approached systematically within the scope of community expansion and consolidation plans.

Improvement of the quality of unit conventions is another important focus for the Council. Historically, attendance and voting in unit conventions has been poor. Information gleaned from previous years indicates that voting percentages in the twenty-eight units in the Central States have been low, leading the Council to the belief that this issue is serious and these percentages (seen as a reflection of the function of conventions) must be improved significantly.

The Council selected four electoral units from the list of twenty-eight units in the Central States. The four units consisted of two with the highest voting percentages and two with the lowest voting percentages, as indicated in 1997. ‘The Council decided to use these as models to implement measures for improving unit conventions. Individual Council members were assigned to work closely with each of the four electoral unit host assemblies in order to implement measures so these unit conventions would be able to attract large








attendance, be joyous experiences with focused consultation, and improve the election process.

‘The relationships of the local spiritual assemblies to the Council has been warm, loving, and responsive. The Council has responded to the local spiritual assemblies for expressions of support; however, it has been important at the same time to convey to the respective assemblies that the relationships of the assemblies to the Council supportive and advisory rather than supervisory. The role of the Council is the strengthening and consolidation of the local spiritual assemblies and their respective communities. That consolidation entails empowerment of the local spiritual assemblies and fostering an understanding that the local spiritual assemblies are not under the authority of the Regional Baha’{ Councils.

Assembly development is an important area of the work of the Council. In view of the numbers of the local spiritual assemblies which have been lost and the number now in jeopardy, this matter presents an immediate concern.

The Council encourages the development of local expansion and consolidation plans. This area remains an important task. The Council must encourage the development and consolidation of local plans without the Council itself becoming the decisionmaker. An intercommunity coordinating body with the appropriate relationship to the respective assemblies may be considered.

‘The need to systematically and energetically pursue the teaching work among the American Indian population has been a constant theme on the agenda of the Regional Council over the past year. With some of the largest concentrations of American Indian peoples in the entire country, the Council realizes that this region must play a pivotal role in advancing this important work during the immediate years ahead.

Over the past year, the Council has endeavored to acquaint itself fully with the challenges and immediate conditions of the Indian teaching work. A visit by a Council member to meet with the local Spiritual Assembly of Pierre, South Dakota, in February 1998 was followed by the participation in March of two Council members at the Spring Baha’f School held in Grand Forks, North Dakota. As a result of the information that was gathered during these two visits, the Council met as a body with the National American Indian ‘Teaching Committee in July in Chicago. During four hours of consultation, the National Committee shared its perspective on the state of Indian teaching in the United States as well as some of its goals. In this meeting, the Council also gleaned a fuller understanding of the National Committee’s work 's regional ta forces. Largely as a result of this consultation, the Council determined that it would be wise to move slowly in taking a prominent role in pursuing this initia~ tive and subsequently made plans to gather more firsthand information by holding one of its future meetings in the















Dakotas. This plan came to fruition in October of last year when the Council traveled to Bismarck, North Dakota, and Pierre, South Dakota. In a series of four separate meetings with the local believers, the Council became intimately acquainted with the hopes and needs of the friends in that part of the region.

In addition to the clear challenge of regaining the momentum that has been lost in recent years in the area of Indian teaching, the Council has also dedicated itself to identifying American Indian believers who can serve on its other committees and assorted agencies. The success of this effort thus far has been limited, but the various American Indian contacts which have resulted from the various visits and assorted networking efforts of the Council in recent months have given it reason to be hopeful in this regard.

INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNCIL



he Regional Baha’f Council of the

Central States has tried to apply the guidance of the Universal House of Justice to “press forward quickly in effecting sound action that will boost the thrust in the expansion and consolidation of the community” and not “expend too much time on formulating new procedures or refining the mechanics of their operations.” At times the challenge has been to find the balance. For example, managing the process of unit conventions and, to a greater degree, the election of the Regional Baha’i Council requires new procedures and refinement.

Currently, the Council meets every three to four weeks in a selected locality in the region. The area selected generally is a target area. The weekend is scheduled to allow time for the Council to meet as a body and then to meet specifically with the youth, regional training institute boards of directors, selected assemblies, groups, and individuals. The Council also uses phone conferences on a monthly and as-needed basis to conduct business. E-mail is relied upon heavily. E-mail messages are forwarded to the Council members on a daily basis. A weekly summary sheet of all incoming and outgoing correspondence as well as important documents are copied and mailed weekly to all members. A secretary's report is included at each meeting, and every attempt is made to provide a written update on a weekly and as needed ba:

The treasurer maintains all original files as related to budget and financial management of funds. The Council receives an update at each meeting on the state of the budget. The Council approved the hiring of a part-time ass tant to the office of the treasurer.

‘The temporary office of the Council is housed in the home of its secretary, where its archives and files are maintained. The Council office is complete with computer, fax, copier, two phone lines and voice mail. The secretariat is staffed with one full-time assistant who handles general secretarial work, office












June 24, 1999 Tue American BanA’i ¢ AnnuAL Report 1999 pages: [Page 44]

maintenance and duties as assigned by the Council

As mentioned earlier, there are four regional training institutes, four regional youth committees, a Regional African American ‘Teaching Committee, a Regional Chinese Teaching Committee, a Regional Latin American Teaching Committee and a Regional Committee for the Equality of Women and Men. There are twelve state ‘Traveling ‘Teaching Coordinators and one Regional Coordinator of Traveling ‘Teaching. Each committee has been or




will be given orientation by Council representatives. Committee minutes and reports are sent to the secretary and copied to every member of the Council. Requests, questions, and issues identified by the committees are brought before the Council. Essentially, the Council members who provided orientation to a specific committee pay particular attention to the minutes of that committee, but at this time the Council members do not hold individual portfolios on agencies. A budget has been determined for each committee and the

treasurer advises the committee treasurers on management and accountability of funds.

As the Council prepares the budget for the coming year, issues not covered in the first budget must be addressed. This includes financing related to the election of the Regional Baha’i Council, printing and publication expenses, office maintenance with the possibility of renting office space, and costs of implementation of strategies in target areas.

The Council also must consider human resource needs and volunteer


versus paid positions. As the responsibilities of the Council increase, and the local spiritual assemblies and the Council develop closer working relationships, the office work load increases, which will require additional staffing.

In conclusion, the Council struggles with time constraints as they affect the challenges before us and the frequency of our consultations. Sacrifices are being made, and still there remains so much to. accomplish in now so short a time. The Council delegates what it can and will continue to do so.


"REGIONAL BAHA'I COUNCIL OF THE NORTHEASTERN STATES

THE PROGRESS OF THE TEACHING AND

CONSOLIDATION WORK CC ¢ growth of the Faith proceeds in an organic, evolutionary manner. Its rate of growth is, therefore, not necessarily uniform, rather, it advances in vast surges, precipitated by the alternation of crisis and victory.” (Promoting Entry by Troops: A statement prepared by the Research Department of the Universal House of Justice, October 1993). Several methods have been employed to encourage this organic process in the Northeast.

The first method is an ongoing attempt to recognize and acknowledge each and every meritorious deed, just as a doting parent praises the first stumbling steps of the infant. Many letters of encouragement have been sent to children, youth, communities, groups, and local spiritual assemblies for this fundamental purpose.

A second method has been a series of “love letters,” including a Ridvin message asking individuals to prioritize their busy lives. Other love letters have been addressed to our precious youth and to the Persian believers. An educational cassette ‘was developed to teach the believers about training institutes. Another letter, devoted to individual teaching, was widely distributed and met an excellent reception.

A third method has been for the Council to travel extensively throughout the Northeast. Monthly weekend meetings have been held in different locations. For the first eight months, we met on Friday nights with youth, sharing a meal, deepening together, and listening to their concerns. Saturday nights were devoted to fellowship with local communities, including joyous praise of God with the Regional Gospel Choir. Since September 1998, we have begun our second tour of the Northeast, meeting in turn with all local spiritual assemblies.

A fourth method has been the establishment of trust and cooperation between the Regional Baha’i Council, local spiritual assemblies, and individuals by openly sharing our hopes and plans and engaging in frequent and serious consultation.

A fifth method, devised to assist in the unlocking of human potential, was to establish an orderly means for indi




viduals to express their creative energies. This was facilitated by the maturation of spiritual assemblies, communities, local and regional schools, training institutes, the use of the arts, workshops, and so on. We found that this process rapidly creates new associations, advances community spirit, and initiates deep, lasting friendships.

All of these methods set the stage for the advance of the process of entry by troops in the Northeast. Last year we saw numerous proclamation, teaching and consolidation efforts in the region, and the believers appeared more energetic and systematic in their efforts.

One measure of success is the number of groups and assemblies that have responded to the letter-writing initiative resulting from the closure of the “Open University” in Iran. Of the 519 groups spiritual assemblies in the Northeast, 29% (150/519) responded to the call. Among that sample, 45% have been involved in one or more initiatives, including interactions with many prestigious higher institutions of learning such as Harvard, MIT, Yale, Princeton and Columbia Universities. The Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of New York City organized a training session to educate the believers about how to interact with people of capacity. A second measure of success is the continued effort to hold “Neighborhood Race Unity Dialogues”; 29% of the regional communities have engaged in this endeavor.

INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT OF OFFICES AND AGENCIES





Bee November 1997, the nine members of the Regional Council had not lived in the same communities nor served together on the same divine institution. Many had been friends, some had served on the Northeast Regional Teaching Committee, and others were well known as authors, speakers, former Counselors, et cetera. From our first joint meeting in Wilmette in December 1997, bonds of love and friendship between the Council members have grown stronger and deeper. The fundamental requisite of unity within the Regional Baha’{ Council is a precious gift we are constantly guarding and nurturing by all our deeds and words.

It has been our bounty to consult with

members of the Continental Board of Counselors Abdu’l-Missagh Ghadirian, David Smith and Tod Ewing on a number of occasions. Their insights and perspectives have greatly advanced our collective thoughts and consultations. Several meetings have also included the six Auxiliary Board members in the Northeast.

We have been able to consult with a number of National Committees and Task Forces, including the National Teaching Committee, the National African American Teaching Committee, the National Youth Committee, the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men, the National Latin American Teaching Task Force, the National Chinese Teaching Task Force and the National Persian-American Affairs Task Force. In addition, we have met with various national offices, including the Office of the Treasurer, the Office of External Affairs, and the Office of Assembly Development. Several other national offices have been extremely helpful to the Council, including the Office of the Secretary— Conventions Office, Mail Services, the Meetings and Travel Office, Human Resources and Information Services.

Joint efforts between the Regional Baha’s Council and other national agencies have begun. We collaborated with the National Teaching Committee to establish a salaried media desk. We also worked on a major external affairs event in Boston, Massachusetts, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day in cooperation with the National Teaching Committee, the Office of External Affairs and the Secretary-General of the National Spiritual Assembly.

A feeling of unity and respect has been central to all our meetings and consultations with our appointed representatives. Each agency that is appointed has the opportunity to meet with the entire Regional Baha’i Council for consultation. A specific liaison is appointed to continue this loving _ interaction. Minutes are reviewed and a “latitude for initiative” is created, cultivating conditions necessary for growth. The following Committees and Task Forces report to the Council:

¢ Four Regional Training Institutes, all offering courses on the Fundamental Verities, and all involved in the systematic development of facilitators, with a fifth Regional ‘Training Institute being



created for the Connecticut Valley; a Regional ‘Training Institute Coordinator.

  • A Regional Committee for the

Advancement of Women.

¢ Regional Travel Coordinators.

  • A nascent Arts Traveling Teaching

“Task Force, with a deputization fund for the arts.

¢ The CTeam for greater Boston, which is engaged in media activities.

  • A Media Desk co-sponsored by the

National Teaching Committee.

¢ A regional newsletter, the North Star.

  • A Unit Convention Task Force.

¢ A Regional Youth Committee.

+ A Regional Gospel Choir.

One committee was not nurtured early in its existence and has suffered. The Regional Committee for the Advancement of Women is still struggling, but we have decided to pursue nurturing instead of starting fresh.

The Couneil’s Office of the Secretariat is currently expanding with the addition of a paid administrative assistant. The Office of the Treasurer has a volunteer assistant for the new computerized accounting procedures.

The Regional Baha’i Council meets as a body every month and has one or two conference calls between these meetings. A large amount of work is accomplished by e-mail and the use of short-term subcommittees. For example, a subcommittee helped to advise the entire Regional Baha’i Council on the best method of establishing a media desk. Another subcommittee is exploring a summer youth initiative at Green Acre.

REGIONAL STRENGTHS AND REQUIREMENTS

Teacher





e


alate Northeast is unique for the following reasons: it is a small area geographically where several Baha’i communities date back one hundred years and many more have existed for sixty to eighty years. This region encompasses the Baha’f International Community offices in New York , the Green Acre Baha’i School in Eliot, Maine, and a well-loved national property, donated by the Hand of the Cause of God Roy Cochran Wilhelm, in Teaneck, New Jersey. The area is richly endowed with many institutions of higher learn



page 44 THe American BanA’i * Annuat Rerort 1999 June 24, 1999 [Page 45]

ing, vast cultural and arts resources, and a constant influx of new immigrants, diplomats and people of capacity. We are distinguished by great economic wealth and power, many medical schools and prestigious hospitals, and high-tech and bio-tech businesses that rival the Silicon Valley. Nine of the one hundred most populous cities are in the nine blessed states of the Northeast region. The area excessively strong in material mean: its spiritual aspects need to be cultivated. Life in the Northeast is highly competitive and frenetic in all but the very small towns. It seems as though very little time exists for teaching among all the other distractions that modern. life provide: An attribute which has eluded our grasp the territorial feeling more common to other parts of the country. For example,




Springfield, Massachusetts, and Albany, New York, are separated by just 60 mii Yet it might as well be 600 miles, as there is no interaction. This single illustration shows how the New England traditions of puritanism, home rule, town governments, and stoic individualism all contribute to the area’s_— unique characteristics.

Nevertheless, there are hopeful indicators, too. Within the Baha’i community are many college clubs, highly educated believers, “retired” pioneers, and extensive human resources. These diverse elements are unified by the common desire to serve Baha’w'llih. There is a large Persian community which is only partially involved in the teaching and proclamation work. We are working with Counselor — Abdu’l-Missagh





ian and a special task force on this There are numerous media avenues, including TV networks, newspapers and advertising agencies, and the national Spanish and Chinese press are nearby in New York City. There are 120 local spiritual assemblies. Many of them, however, are struggling due to small numbers in their communities. Greater emphasis must be placed on our mandate of local spiritual assembly development, and we feel also that a major emphasis on homefront pioneering would improve this situation.

OUR OWN SUPPORT NEEDS

opts Council feels that the developr

ment of its Offices of the Secretariat, Treasurer and External



Affairs are critical at this moment. Too many tasks fall on the shoulders of the Regional Baha’i Council members that could be accomplished by a support staff.

The Quickbooks Pro accounting software, soon to be implemented in the Northeast, may prove inadequate for our needs. For example, it does not allow tracking of phone calls or travel by cost center, critical components of our record keeping.

The continued evolution of the national offices and committees to a decentralized model must be accelerated. A particular bottleneck for the Council has been with Information Services. This function must be rapidly decentralized with the necessary security measures in place.




REGIONAL BAHA'I COUNCIL OF THE SOUTHERN STATES =

THE PROGRESS OF THE TEACHING AND CONSOLIDATION WORK

© progress of the teaching work can be measured both in terms of numerical growth and in the demonstration of those actions that fuel growth. In all candor, the former measure indicates rather disappointing results: enrollments have not increased in the region since the Council’s inception. We sense that individual Baha’is are taking more certain steps to acquaint others with the Teachings, yet we also sense a need for more audacious and well-prepared action on their parts.

While an increased number of spiritual assemblies now report having adopted local teaching plans, and the Auxiliary Board members continue to promote this action, we are challenged to create a corresponding support of the individual Baha’i for these plans. A key area to be addressed is that of community development—the fostering of attractive, magnetic communities that nurture and sustain and embrace diversity of all kinds.

‘The advance in the process of entry by troops in the South is being supported through a variety of strategies, some of which are reviewed below.

In a specific and focused effort to encourage large-scale growth, the Council has appointed coordinating teams in five metropolitan areas. These agencies (CTeams) work under the Council’s guidance to a the urban/suburban assemblies in developing area-wide teaching campaigns and community development plans that tap into the collective and abundant resources of the member communitie: It is an evolving process—one that we continue to foster in advancing the process of entry by troops in the region and one that allows our Council to indire id in strengthening the local asseme are confident that th can serve as catalysts for significant growth, both numerically and y, among the member comThe Council is holding a con













ference for all CTeams to assist them with initiatives for the final year of the Four Year Plan.

Our Council also has established State Teaching Committees and tasked them to focus on stimulating ivity through promotion of the initiatives of the national teaching plan and the development of state-based campaigns of growth. Working with individuals, institutions, and communiState Teaching Committees are assessing area needs and resources and channeling these resources into systematic and well-organized programs to bring about an increase in the ranks of believers. They also are contributing to the strengthening of groups and jeopardized assemblies.

A critical factor in bringing about growth is the mobilization of Baha’i youth in the region. To aid this movement, we have formed a Regional Youth Coordinating Team that is preparing a 1999 summer initiative aimed at training youth for service in the teaching field and placing them in projects throughout the region.

As to the twin themes of the national teaching plan—race unity and the equality of women and men—the Council has placed a great deal of emphasis on the former theme. We have established a talented regional Race Unity Committee that has worked to develop and distribute dialogue materials to heighten the awareness of the “most vital and challenging issue,” particularly as it affects the Baha’i community. The Committee also is undertaking the holding of Race Amity conferences throughout the South this year and serves as an advisor and a resource bank for local race unity initiatives. We have been pleased with the general response to our publication of a pamphlet, Walking the Talk, a teaching aid that targets respondents to The Power of Race Unity broadcasts. Our most recent publication is Uniting the Human Family, a teaching booklet that izes the twin themes of the | teaching plan. The Council ha not yet developed a core strategy for the advancement of women in the region.









‘To achieve effectively the growth we all desire, a new culture must be created in the South—one that views teaching as its primary and most essential activity. In our communications with our agencies and with the assemblies and believers, both during our community visits and in our correspondence, we continue to promote this essential concept. It has been stated that all of the elements for realizing large-: -scale growth are in place, and the Council’s evaluation is in accord with that view. ‘Two key factors that we feel must continue to be addressed are:

1. The initiative, confidence and skills of the individual to share the Message of Baha’u’llah with receptive souls, and

2. The further development of the local community as a haven of love and diversity with an increased ability to attract, win, and maintain the allegiance of seekers.

‘The consolidation work in the South has been enhanced greatly by the establishment of _ training institutes, and our Council is carefully and systematically engaged in fostering their development. We are particularly grateful for the support of the institution of the Counselors in this regard. Eight Regional ‘Training Institutes (RTI) and countless locally sponsored training stitutes are now offering courses of study to veteran and newly enrolled believers with a focus on spiritual transformation and teaching skills development. We are confident that these new agencies will be prepared to meet more readily the challenge of welcoming scores of new believers, training them in the fundamental verities and skills necessary both to confirm their belief and to attract many more new recruits. A conference of the Southern RTI Boards of Directors recently was held by the Council with the participation of Alejandra Miller and Tod Ewing, members of the Continental Board of Counselors. It was a giant step forward in the fundamental understanding and pplication of the institute process, and,

a result, we anticipate a more accelered prog















the region. The Council also recognizes the need to encourage local spiritual assemblies to take fuller advantage of the services of Regional ‘Training Institute:

In assessing the progress of the teaching and consolidation work we have come to understand that there is a yearning on the part of the friends to serve, often coupled with an uncertainty about how they can best serve the Cause. This has brought us to a realization that there is a vast amount of untapped, underutilized resources at the grassroots level. As we acknowledge and validate their value as individual servants of the Cause, they respond with increased energy and enthusiasm.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF REGIONAL OFFICES AND AGENCIES





‘he Cou has_ established _ its offices in South Florida. The work of the Office of the Secretary is conducted largely by our elected secretary and assistant secretary, along with several occasional volunteers from the area. For the most part, the Council is able to meet the demands of record-keeping, reporting, correspondence and agency management, but it is evident that skilled staff soon will be needed to keep pace with the ever-increasing workload. ‘The work of the Office of the ‘Treasurer also has kept pace with the demands, largely through the talents and efforts of our elected treasurer and selected volunteers. Here again, the anticipated increase in the work soon may require the hiring of staff. The treanoted the loving and helpful of the National Treasurer’s Office in setting up systems of accounting and record keeping.

‘The Council appointed a secretary for external affairs who conducts these activities in conjunction with the i Assembly's Office of in Washington, DC.

‘The establishment of our own unity of thought is an evolving process. Our members are discovering, through test














External Affairs






June 24, 1999

Tue AmMeRicAN BanA’i * AnnuAL Rerort 1999

page 45 [Page 46]

and reward, trial and error, an evolving sense of the Council as an entity that is to be carefully nurtured and lovingly developed. Each of us has had to make considerable adjustments in our lives to accommodate the demands of this service, and we are working to develop a standard for our collective participation. Communication has not always been easy, and rarely are things understood by all in the same way. We feel that we are making real strides to consult with care and candor, discipline and focus. Each of us brings a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to the council chamber, and we are learning to appreciate better the diversity we bring as we build a unity of vision. The bond of love shared by our members is a tangible reality—one that has been affirmed numerous times by the friends during our visits to various communities throughout the region. It is a love that is sustaining and fulfilling and is a source of joy and a true reward.

We have enjoyed the abundant and wise counsel of the members of the Continental Board of Counselors and, in particular, that of Mr. Ewing and Mrs. Miller. Their long-range and large-scale vision certainly has helped to elevate our own, and we are grateful for the ease of our exchange.

It should also be stated that our respect for the institution of the Regional Council has brought us a sense


of collective empowerment. We have ‘

learned in this brief year a great deal about how institutions at every level should treat each other, with an emphasis on respect, reverence and courtesy. We also have been strengthened by the wholehearted support of the friends for this infant institution—a support for which the National Spiritual Assembly is to be credited in its dignified and exemplary introduction of the Councils. ‘Through the establishment of a number of agencies, the Council has engaged approximately 200 dedicated believers in the South. Our agencies each are mandated to carry out specified services, and we generally are very pleased with the quality and quantity of their work. This has been a very positive step for the region, engaging, as it does, the involvement of many talented Baha’fs who are eager to demonstrate support for the newly-elected Council. While we have become more prudent in appointing more agencies, we feel that their establishment is a calculated risk. The Council has high expectations for its





agencies and works closely with each to enhance their service. We also encourage a wide latitude in their de making and _ self-management. Council does not expect that each of them will be entirely successful but senses that the overall motion and app! tion of talent will yield a net result that will be ultimately beneficial to advancing the process of entry by troops in the region.

‘The management and maintenance of these various agencies has, at times, challenged our Council, and we are currently devising the means to more readily evaluate both their effectiveness and ours. Here again, the placement of staff is expected to aid this process, and several Council members have identified volunteer aides that assist us in this work.

The Council now is preparing a message to all of its agencies in the South, urging them to accelerate their efforts and to rededicate themselves to addressing their mandates as we move into the final year of the Four Year Plan.

OUR PERCEPTIONS OF THE SOUTHERN REGION'S STRENGTHS AND REQUIREMENTS




mmediately following our inaugural

meeting, the Council arranged a special consultation to consider our first steps. We formulated a s that we felt must be address more tiarked acceleration in the advance of the process of entry by troops can be realized in the South. These challenges were then conveyed to the local spiritual assemblies by a letter in which we asked that they consult to affirm the challenges. The response was an unqualified ‘yes.” The challenges were noted as

  • Feeling a personal spiritual connection to Baha’w’llah.
  • Having a clear sense of mission.

¢ Teaching with confidence and courage and acquiring effective teaching skills.

¢ Nurturing an environment that is loving and accepting and embraces diversity of all kinds.

¢ Ensuring effective and sustained collaboration between the twin arms of the Baha’i Administrative Order.

Throughout our first year, we have reaffirmed these challenges over and over again. They have presented a core agenda for our Council and charged us to move forward in a proactive manner. It should be noted that, in their respons







es, many of the assemblies added that they are challenged by their inability to deal with the many demands on their time, and some asked for assistance with time and stress management. Several assemblies commented that, in a region primarily composed of. Christians, there is a sense of real inadequacy in teaching the Faith to Christians.

Our meetings with the friends in various communities along with our consultation with members of the Continental Board of Counselors and agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly have brought us additional realizations. These include:

  • A real longing for acknowledgement and affirmation, and the smallest

amount of praise and enthusiasm yields great results.

  • There sometimes exists a fear of

reprimand among assemblies pod. individuals.

  • There is often a sense of dee

chantment and of oppression among Baha’is of minority backgrounds.

¢ There is an abundance of untapped talent and enthusiasm at the grassroots level, and the assemblies often lack the time and skills to channel these resources effectively.

  • The friends are very responsive to

the call of the Council

© Operating on a sense of abundance is a self-fulfilling experience.

  • We need to celebrate and worship

through music and song.

¢ The development of local institutions and their ability to develop loving and attractive communities is essential for the Cause to flourish.

We especially are challenged by the development of the Faith in the state of South Carolina. The unique history of the state, the diversity it offers, and the sheer number of believers pose a real dilemma for our Council. How can we best address the needs of the individual, the institution and the community in our most populated state—one which holds such potential for growth? What can the Council bring to renew a vision of growth and raise up more mature local institutions? How can we best contribute to the revitalization and transition of the

Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute?

OUR OWN SUPPORT NEEDS











eee flow is critical to our continued progress, and while a great deal of information comes our way in the

form of reports and correspondence, we struggle with our ability to incorporate the information and, as need be,

respond to it. Some of this can, no doubt, be addressed through the hiring of staff.

We recognize that the creation of the Councils has altered all the models of management we have become accustomed to and that, with time, the work between the national and regional levels will assume a better rhythm. We are hopeful that the offices and agencies of the National Spiritual Assembly will begin to more readily engage the Council’s input before initiating strategies on a large scale. A recent example is the “One Voice” program of the National Committee for the Equality of Women and Men, which we learned about only after the initiative had been introduced.

On the other hand, we have recently benefited from a more open communication and exchange with the National Teaching Committee as we work together to advance the aims of the national teaching plan in the region. It has taken some time for us to understand our new and complementary roles, and the prospects for cooperation and collaboration are excellent.

As we work to strengthen local assemblies, we are appreciative of the services offered by the national Office of Assembly Development. The Council will be more actively promoting these services and programs i 's with local institutions and has already arranged for the metro-based CTeams and all of the regional training institutes to become more fully informed of the available programs.

‘The Council has been particularly challenged with a lack of information with which to manage and project our budget more effectively. The Treasurer's Offices is working to develop the systems that will help us monitor how we are managing and allocating funds.

Overail, it has been a year of exploration and discovery for the Southern Council. The process of “becoming” a Council is both rewarding and challenging, and it has been eased by the loving guidance and patience of the senior institutions of the Faith. We are particularly appreciative of the wide latitude of action granted us by the National Spiritual Assembly. The discovery and the process will, no doubt, continue, and it is with a sense of anticipation and a spirit of adventure that we face our second year in service to the region.








REGIONAL BAHA’[ COUNCIL OF THE WESTERN STATES

THE PROGRESS OF THE TEACHING AND CONSOLIDATION WORK

Council has observed the same thing that the National Spiritual Assembly

reports about the nation as a whole:

there is strong activity everywhere.

There appears to be an advance of the

process of entry by troops, but signifi



cant growth is yet to be seen. Most metropolitan communities are engaged in some form of inter-assembly collaboration with an eye toward developing their capacity for efficient and effective growth; the use of assembly development courses is on the rise; the number of devotional gatherings is increasing; youth workshops and traveling teachers are rising up in greater numbers; systematic youth training is beginning to be




implemented; Regional ‘Training Institutes are developing; plans are under way to mobilize the Persian Baha’is, to strengthen Indian and African-American teaching, as well as reach the Southeast Asian, Hispanic and South Pacific Islander populations; the believers in the Navajo nation are showing new signs of strength with the refined approach to training using ajo-language study circles; many




communities have strategies to develop the arts; and the seeker response system is being fine-tuned. In short, much is readiness.

In a few areas there is some change in the pattern of growth. Examples include Seattle, Washington, which has had seventeen enrollments this year, and the , Idaho, metropolitan area, which has seen twelve new believers embrace the Faith this year. The Council has







page 46 ~~ THe AMERICAN BaAnA’i * ANNUAL RePoRT 1'999

“June 24, 1999 [Page 47]

sear


ANNUAL REPORT*REGIONAL




BAHAI


COUNCILS


selected two sites for a focused media campaign assisted by the National ‘Teaching Committee from among many possibilities: Tucson, Arizona, and El Dorado County, California. These two areas, one metropolitan, one rural, show promise in expansion and consolidation.

In September the Council wrote to all the believers at the Unit Conventions requesting that they consider pledging to arise in one or more avenues of service. While the office is still re ig commitment forms, to date it has received pledge forms from 1,365 believers. The breakdown of their ments,

  • Help reduce th
  • Homefront pion














  • Participate in local activities that

model the oneness of humanity: 1,168 the number of devotional gatherings: 1,060

  • Some of the friends have notified the

coordinating office that they already have settled at their posts.

PERCEPTION OF THE REGION'S STRENGTHS AND REQUIREMENTS



‘he West has about 470 local spiritu al emblies and about 25,000 believers with good addresses. It has the teeming and resource-rich coastal communities and, we discovered, a s no local mblies at all! The regi characterized by large numbers of enthusiastic but mostly lightly deepened Baha'is who, overall, seem receptive and enthusiastically responsive to the Regional Baha'i Council.

‘The strengths in the region include a cadre of great Auxiliary Board members; a large, active pool of eager youth; a diversity of populations including a large American Indian population, including the Navajo nation with over 300 Baha’fs; large numbers of Persians, Hispanic peoples, and Southeast Asians and other is. We are fortunate that the region also includes the Native American Baha’i Institute, Bos ai School, and increasing numbers of comwith local Baha’i centers. ‘There is also a large number of experienced metropolitan local _ spiritual assemblies.

Confident in the overall vigor of the Baha'i communities in the West, the Council quickly established several priorities

¢ To visit areas to explore ways to boost the thrust in expansion and consolidation;

  • To explore ways to mobilize the

youth for a lifetime of service; and

  • To forge a close, intimate, and warm

collaborative relationship with the assemblies in the region, ever keeping in mind the overarching requirement to create strong assemblies which are the focal centers of Baha’{ community life.

As a result of these visits and of our study of the Tablets of the Divine Plan, the Four Year Plan documents and the national teaching plan, considerable attention has been focused in the areas of local and regional training insti



















tutes, assembly development, the strategic movement of traveling teachers and homefront pioneers, and youth.

Most of the metropolitan communities have some form of intercommunity campaign in place using a variety of coordinating systems. Our posture has been to encourage the continuing momentum while we learn which methods produce the greatest potential for creating strong assemblies and. for boosting the thrust of the teaching work. Many assemblies have asked for guidance in this work, and the Council developed a working draft for intercommunity collaboration, which it has

ared with some metropolitan communities.

At the suggestion of Jacqu Hand Bull, a member of the Continental Board of Counselors, the Council turned its attention to Montana because of its potential. Montana has become, in a sense, our “pilot” state. There is a warm reception to the Council’s interest by the Baha’is and though it is a huge land area, the Baha’ community is small. In July we had a landmark statewide meeting at which we conducted a very effective consultation to determine the needs in the state. At that time we announced the creation of the State Committee and followed up with several “beta” projects, which boosted the y and confidence in Montana. Activities included holding a statewide local spiritual assembly training weekend, using the assembly development modules, conducting the youth training/ teaching program, and launching the ‘Traveling Teaching-Homefront Pioneering Program. Montana is on the move, and the Council gained much needed experience. Based on this first experience, three additional state/area committees have been appointed.

The majority of even the veteran believers in the region are not confident teachers and many local spiritual assembly members are not well versed in administrative principles and_ vision. Both the expansion and consolidation of the Faith depend on skilled individuals who will arise to carry out the work. The Council realized that in order to increase the number of effective teachers, individuals need training; and in order to create strong assemblies, assemblies need training. The need for training of effective teachers and administrators in the Zause is urgent, and most of the training institutes in the West are still in the early development stage. It is clear that until there are fully functioning training institutes, we will be hampered in our efforts to respond quickly and effectively as the troops begin to enter the Cause. The Council has devoted a large portion of its consultation and study to training institutes, and its understanding of training institutes has become much clearer and sharper in the last few months.

DEVELOPMENT OF OFFICES AND AGENCIES










sh




ine Left




















have taken to heart the com e V V pelling directive of the Universal


House of Justice “not to expend too much time on formulating new procedures or refining the mechanics of their

tions.” And we have si “to n effecting sound the thrust in


e





action that will boos ion and consolidation of the ity.” The balancing act of a lean

e structure largely devoid and refined mec cS


commu administrat of procedure:




and the demands of vigorou: mature communities that avail themselves of the gu partnership of the new i proved very challenging.

It has been an arduous yea members of the b an institutional voice has been ing need—every new question, of course, required consultative time to 1 no body of

to guide our of






ution has


ar for the tablishing nN ongo






the national teaching plan while sti the early stages of sing the region has created a tug-of-war on our attention. The administrative load quickly swamped the Council members, and the secretariat has been hard-pressed to. keep up with the already large flow of correspondence.

We look forward to the time when we will have addressed adequately the needs of the secretariat; developed a depth of institutional vision that will allow the ncil to respond more quickly to the requirements, needs, and questions which come to it; and fostered the maturation of our new agencies, which gradually will be able to carry out on our behalf much of the work that now demands our attention. The Council members often chafe at the slowness of our own process as we unavoidably take the time to develop our own systematic functioning.

On the positive side, the overall strategy of the Council and the communication it has achieved with the assemblies and the believers in the region is a source of satisfaction to this institution. The glitches in communication and implementation largely have been internal, or, regrettably, at times with the national offices. These will undoubtedly improve as the administrative efficiency gained through experience gradually takes effect.

‘The Regional Baha'i Council quickly agreed that we wish to avoid creating layers of administration—we do not want anything to inadvertently come between the Council and the spiritual assemblies. After careful consideration, the Council has decided to appoint coordinators to carry out much of our work rather than appoint committees. These coordinators, who will draw on other volunteers to assist them, are our agents, doing our work in various areas.

An example is the network of ‘Traveling ‘Teaching-Homefront Pioneering coordinators in each state, assisted by a regional coordinator for traveling teaching and another for homefront pioneering. Our region is not “one size fits all,” so in some of the more rural areas where there are few assemblies and small communities we

















have appointed state and area committees. Currently there are four— Wyoming, Montana, Southern Idaho, and Eastern Washington/Northern Idaho. We also have established a Unit Convention ordinator who was able in looking after all the de! associated with both administrating and strengthening the unit conventions. We have just appointed regional youth development coordinators and_ will appoint state coordinators. We are in the process of identifying pos:








ble

members to serve on a Regional itute coordinating team to explore ways to provide the

‘Training Ins and continu ministrative support to free Council members of the myriad de: that weigh them down.

Wishing to assure that all of the believers we appoint to carry out the work of the Council reflect a deep spirit of love and service as well as the vision of strengthening assemblies at all cost, we have launched our committees personally, modeled to a degree on the National Spiritual Assembly's inauguration of the Regional Baha We took the time to craft their servants to the communitie: creating a bond of love with them and emphasizing the requirement for the development of strong assemblies to be ever present in their minds. At this early stage, it appears that the care and time given to this has paid off—the assemblies‘and communities seem to welcome the work our agents are carrying out, and we are assured of an open, loving flow of communication at all levels.

OUR OWN SUPPORT NEEDS














Or biggest challenge at the moment is the strengthening of administrative support for the Council programs at all levels and, most especially, for the secretariat. Developing a customized financial method and a method of budgeting is very desirable and would be very helpful for the work of the treasurer.

The Council wishes to be responsive to the needs of its committees and agencies and to facilitate the efforts of its working groups. We need a good membership and records system, allowing data to be retrieved, manipulated, and printed out as needed. Other challenges include long (but improving) synchronization time for e-mail systems and countless other e-mail challenges, an expensive leased copier which is finicky and requires high-grade paper to function well in our office environment, and an inadequate phone system that has not been updated, awaiting further technical and implementation of the ISDN line, to name just a few.

In closing, the Council wishes to express its gratitude to the National Spiritual Assembly for its patient and loving support in this first term of the Council’s operation. We rely on the prayers of the National Spiritual Assembly, strive continually to meet its expectations, and have a greater appreciation of the enormity of its tasks than ever before.




June 24, 1999 The American BanA‘l ¢ Annuat Rerort 1999

page 47 [Page 48]

REGIONAL BAHA'I COUNCILS

NATIONAL COMMITTEES AND

TASK

FORCES

SCHOOL AND INSTITUTE ADVISORY BOARDS

EDITORIAL BOARDS

Baha'i Encyclopedia Larry Bucknell Betty J. Fisher Firuz Kazemzadeh Todd Lawson Heshmat Moayyad Gayle Morrison Sholeh Quinn Robert H. Stockman

Will C. van den Hoonaard

World Order Howard Garey Betty J. Fisher Firuz Kazemzadeh Robert H. Stockman

Jim Stokes

‘page 48






Zaswell Ellis 1 Jacobi

Taylor June Thomas Richard Thomas Lynn Wieties

National Committee for the Equality of ‘Women and Men Layli Miller Bashir Kambiz Kevin Rafraf Michael Rogell

Homa Sabet Tavangar Cynthia R. Thomas

National Baha'i Education Task Force Saba Ayman-Nolley Richard Beane II Beatriz Reyna Curry Barbara Johnson

Ray Johnson

Kathy Penn

Joannie Gholar Yuille

Bosch Baha'i School


Kambiz Petri Gregory Rackley

PERSIANAMERICAN AFFAIRS TASK FORCES

National PersianAmerican Task Force Manuchehr Derakhshani Guity Ejtemai Sohrab Kourosh Zabihollah SabetSharghi

Guity Ghadimi Vahid

Tne AMERICAN BanA’i * AnyuaL Rerort 1999

EPO CS

Northeastern States Nina Di Robert Ha John Joyce

Neal McBride




William Smith

National Teaching Committee Kenneth Bowers Ethel Crawford William Geissler Jena Khodadad Alejandro Melendez



National African American Teaching Committee

Lana Bogan

Elarryo Bolden

Robert Carpenter Gwendolyn Etter-Lewis Oliver Thomas

Green Acre Bahai School

Nina Dini

Tom Ha Mara Khavari Wendy Kvalheim Chester Makoski Mary Makos Barbara Markert Farhad Rassekh



AREA TASK FORCES Phoenix, Arizona Farshad Agahi

Nasir Arefnejad

Marjan Sepehri Halstead Shahrokh Haydarian Paricher Khavari

Avid Navidi

Azita Rahimian

Taraneh Tadghighi

Los Angeles, California

Manijeh Ahouraian Keyvan Geula Shokouh S$. Madjzoob Hamid Rastegar Farideh Shahriar Shirinbanu Sohrab Shidan Taslimi

Orange County, California Houshiar Haghani Mina Rassekh Pouran Rahimi Mahineh Shafizadeh Elham Mona Taeed

San Diego, California Manoochehr Haghani Minoo Khadem

Saeed Khadem Farzaneh Mobine Arashmidos Monjazeb Shokouh Rowshan

June 24, 1999


ON CTL oe A N D me oO MM

Southern States


Jack Guillebeaux Robert James Ahmad Mahboubi Carole Miller Mahyar Mofidi Karen Pritchard James Sturdivant


National American Indian Teaching Committee Angelina Albert


Phil Lucas Ina McNeil Christian Norleen

Chinese Teaching Task Force

Albert Cheung Hong Foo

Deborah Karres Mara Khavari Susan Senchuk

Louhelen Baha'i School

Azar Alizadeh Elizabeth Herth Hoda Mahmoudi John Mangum, Jr. Susan Modarai Katherine Penn

Northern California Soehila Sobhani Afnani Bahia Farahi

Mahzad Farhang-Mehr Guity Jam

Nasrollah Maghzi Forouhideh Asbagh Manavi

Kambiz Petri

Seattle, Washington Ata’u'llah Arjomand Nahid Eng

Iraj Khademi

Behnam Khoshkhoo Roohangiz Mahanian Pasha Mohajer-Jasbi

Chicago, Illinois Roya Ayman Ahmad Bastani Mahvash Doering Hermin Dinparvar Hoveydai

Farhad Ranjbar Fariba Soheil Shadan Tofighi Fuad Ziai

Central Florida

Naser Mohajer

Minoo Nasseri

Mahvash Taghavi Rabban Fahimeh Rouhani Kambiz Rouhani

Behzad Shahidi

Western States Shad Afsahi Fereshteh Bethel Carol Brooks Derek Cockshut Shannon Javid Charleen Mag A. Habib Riazati ‘Toussaint Elahe Young



Latin American Teaching Task Force Vera Berrio Breton


Elvia Ramirez

Special Materials Reviewing Committee Eunice Braun

Doering


Dixie Rouleau Robert Stockman Lynnea Yancy

Native American Bahai Institute Alice Bathke

Jerry Bathke Alberta Deas Charlotte Kahn Jeff Kiely

Michael Lindsey Brad Rishel Victoria Yazzie

Atlanta, Georgia Rouhollah Mahmoudzadeh-Kashi Golnar Motahar

Bijan Motlagh Rouhanieh Motlagh Sobhan

Parviz Tofighian

Dallas, Texas Forouzan Afsahi Homa Baher Badie Pouran Eshraghi Bahin-duct Hajbandeh John Leonard

Jenny Sobhani

Soheila Zandi

Houston, Texas Hormoz Bastani Fereydiun Eghbali Vafa Ghaemmaghami Maryam Afnan Rabbani Houshmand Tirandaz

Virginia/Maryland/ Washington, DC Mowhebat Ahdieh Peyman Akhavan Lameh Fananapazir Mona Khademi Kaveh Mehrnama Jaleh Sadeghzadeh Kiumars fani Soheil Zebarjadi



National Youth Committee

Vesal Dini

Dwyer

Horton ‘Towfigh artha Villagomez



Jacksonville, Florida Pari Bauman

yyih Toloui-Nadji Bahman Venus

Nahid Mashhud Venus



Miami, Florida Shohreh Hassan Mahindokht MohammadGh Bija Mabvash Vojdani



Boston, Massachusetts Ramin Abri Behnaz Aghd: Shahan Missaghian Darvish

Hamed Eshraghian Changiz Geula Shahruz Mohtadi Forooz Nader Soroush Naderi


New York/New Jersey/Connecticut Mahiyyat Ashraf Foad Ghebleh Ghamar Ghorbani Habib Hosseiny

Vafa Mavaddat Cyrus Tamaddon Enayatollah Vossough Mehrnaz Tirandaz Youssefian [Page 49]

Module workshops aid Assemblies

ssembly Development Module Workshops can help your Assembly systematically develop a unified vision of its vital responsibilities and provide practical insights on how to achieve the They comprise part of an ongoing process of Spiritual Assembly development. Module workshops cover a variety of topics to suit a wide range of needs, including Assemblies at all stages of m jon and communities of every size. The following information on the modules is organized as responses to commonly asked questions.



How can these workshops help our Assembly function more effectively?

Assemblies have a wealth of guidance in the Writings to help them in carrying out their responsi bilities, but they can find it challenging to locate this guidance and connect it to the situations they encounter. Modules help by presenting the most relevant Writings on a topic combined with commenil activities that clarify how to apply these





Participant’s reaction: “It helped pinpoint solutions to work on, both on my own and on an Assembly level.”

Our real challenge is unity; how can these workshops help? Participating in thes Assembly or community has a ying effect. Norkshops provide a shared knowledge base drawn from the Writings, which reminds everyone of common goals. This contributes to unity, especially if the workshops are done in a retreat format. Participant’s reaction: “It brought us all closer in the joy of service. We had time away from the pres


















“The resources at the disposal of the community must, as a result of its expansion, be continually augmented and carefully extended.”

—Shoghi Effendi

PLANNED GIVING

extends our options

There are a number of ways to support the Funds of the Faith in addition to our regular cash contributions: bequests through our wills, gifts of stock or other securities, gift annuities, etc. These methods—or any others that are not outright cash gifts—are commonly referred to as “planned giving.”

The National Spiritual Assembly has announced a Planned Giving Program that allows believers to make financial arrangements benefiting both themselves, through tax savings and, sometimes, increased income, while making a substantial gift to the Fund.

For a packet of information on how you might be able to plan a gift, please complete the form at right or contact the Office of the Treasurer (phone 847-7333476, e-mail )

Uwe would like more information about planned giving. | am particularly interested in: ___Providing for the Baha’i Faith in my will ___Making a gift of securities

___Making a gift of real estate

___Making a gift through life insurance

Receit ___Charitable Gift Annuities ____ Charitable Remainder Trusts


Name

Spouse’s Name (if Baha’) Address

City

State Zip Telephone

E-mail

Development Department, Office of the Treasurer,

sure of completing an agenda to focus on what the Assembly was all about.”

Order these Module Workshops through the Baha’i Distribution Service (phone 800-999-9019):

  • A Sense of Parmership: The Individual and the

Local Spiritual Assembly

  • Builders of Communities: Developing a Strong,

Vibrant Community

  • Builders of Communities: Fostering Racial Unity
  • Builders of Communities: Stress Management and

the Baha’i Community

  • Builders of Communities: The Equality of Women

and Men, Part One: A Shared Respon ity

  • Builders of Communities: The Equality of Women

and Men, Part ‘Two: The Assembly’s Role in Fostering Partnership

  • Channels of Divine Guidance:

Nature of the Local Assembly

  • Channels of Divine Guidance: Consultation Part

One: Developing the Requisites of Consultation

  • Channels of Divine Guidance: Consultation Part

“Two: Consulting in Unity and Harmony

ing Shepherds of the Multitude: of Spiritual and Admii







‘The Spiritual





  • Teaching and the Spiritual Assembly
  • “That the Fast and West May Embrac



ilitated by an Assembly Dodson representative, the ssembly only needs to purchase the participant handouts. If an / nbly is having its own facilitator conduct the workshop, they will also need a





ation Guide.

CLIP OR COPY THIS FORM


ing income from my gift:

___ prefer that someone contact me by ~~ telephone.

Return form to:


Baha’i National Center, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201


TAB 6/24/99 3




The Local Treasurer's Corner is devoted to helping local treasurers, and others who have special interest in development of the Funds, by offering suggestions and ideas that might be helpful in this work. If you would like to offer stories or ideas that have increased your community's understanding of and participation in the Fund, you are invited to share them with other communities through this column. Contact the Office of the Treasurer (phone 847-733-3472, e-mail )

Treasurer's Office Q&A from Convention Beginning this month, the Local Treasurer’s Corner will share some of the questions and answers that were offered to the delegates at the National Convention in April:

What was the best Treasury news this year? ¢ Baha’is who gave, contributed much more than Americans generally! © We avoided the

  • Automatic contributions |

the equivalent of 23% of the income! ¢ The numbei mitted to the year’s levels!

  • The new planned gi

ing start! How close did we come to the $27 million annual goal? Contributions totaled $18.8 million, down 16% from last year and about $8 million below the goal. We hit the monthly target two Gregor onths out of 12. The extent of low ivity and inves t seems to be the main factor, according to many of the friends. To achieve all our goals, without neglecting some of them, will be a continual challenge. Our community is an organic system; development at one | promotes development at every other level; growth tha stunted in one place ultimately brakes growth everywhere How could we have a surplus i if we missed the goal by so much? The answer to th ies in the accounting rules in net shown




ammer swoon” in giving! ed $330,000 monthly, or nal Fund’s contribution




s of Local Assembly audits and goals subal Spiritual Assembly soared beyond last





ing program is off to a very promis











in the Aantal Report—is an opti result: itis the net difthat flow from

ference between the revenues and expen ms of a ni;



that ei valest require to bibe handled in the “statement of




he “balance sheet”—and not in the operating a i led $1.9 million for the nd a half-million dollars of debt repaid. The


meaning of these figures is that a paid off and our accumulated defi How much did we spend on teaching?

‘The answer depends on the definition one aching includes proclamation, expansion and consolidation, and that covers pretty much everything that is done at the ational Center. Specifically, $5 million was invested in which are most directly cludes about $500,000 for year), covering

‘act ser able piece of debt was did not incre:










lated to “teaching.” Tha the media plan (up from alm air-time purcl slated to in n the budget the tual Assembly is looking at now, to about $1.4




National Sp million.

More Treasurer’s Office Q&A from Convention next month.

“O My Servant! The best of men are they that earn a livelihood by their calling and spend upon themselves and upon their kindred for the love of God, the Lord of all worlds.” Bahd’u'lldh, Hidden Word No. 82 from the Persian



June 24, 1999

Tue AMERICAN BAnA‘i * ADMINISTERING THE CAUSE



page 49 [Page 50]

RA PITTTETE [G°THE®= :

RING*THE®:

va



1998-1999 COMMUNITY HONOR ROLL

e Office of the Treasurer is delighted to publish the Community Honor Roll for 155 B.E., a list of 825 Local Spiritual Assemblies and 191 registered groups who distinguished themselves by the diligence and care they displayed in financial support of the National Spiritual Assembly. The Honor Roll criteria are the same as last year's. To be listed, a community must have con tributed to the National Baha'i Fund:

+ 15 times or more during at least 12 of 19 months of the Baha'i administrative year, or

+ At least 10 of 12 Gregorian months through the Automatic Contribution System (ACS) between March 1998 and February 1999, or

+ With the same regularity through a combination of ACS and mailed contributions.

We are pleased also to recognize Spiritual Assemblies and groups that submitted their community goals for 155 B.E. (indicated by ¥) and audits for the fiscal year ending April 30, 1998 which were due June 30, 1998 (marked by *).

Congratulations to these communities, which have demonstrated mature and unified action through consistency, responsibility and reliability.














ALABAMA Chico¥ Mission Viejo¥* Hayward JD¥* Denver¥* Hillsborough Co Aurora¥ KANSAS Birmingham¥ Chula Vista¥ x Modesto¥ San Luis Obispo¥ Douglas Cox NW¥ Bloomington¥ Butler Co Florencex Citrus Heights¥x = Monrovia San Luis Obispo Co Durango¥ Hollywood¥ x Bolingbrook Derby Hunwville¥x Claremont¥* Monterey* NWY El Paso Co E Indian River Co¥ — Champaign¥*x Jasper Clovis¥* Moorpark San Luis Obispo Co Fort Collins¥*: Jacksonville x Chicago Madison¥ Concord¥* Moreno Valley¥x = S¥ Glenwood Springs — Key West¥* Decatur¥* Kansas City¥* Montgomery¥ Corona¥* Morro Bay¥x San Marcos¥* Golden* Lake Co¥x Deerfield¥ Lawrence¥ ‘Tuscaloosa¥« Covina Mountain View¥* — San Mateo¥* Jefferson Cox Lakeland¥ Des Plaines¥ Olathe¥ Culver City Mt San JacintoJD San Mateo Co $ La Plata Co¥* LargoWx Grove Overland Park¥* ARIZONA Cupertino¥*x Murrietax JD¥x Lafayette¥x Lee Co East Boonay Wichita¥ x Avondalex Dana Point¥* Napa¥* San Rafael¥* Lakewood¥ x Leon Co¥* Winfield¥ Chandler¥* Danville¥ Nevada Co C Santa Barbara¥*x Larimer Co¥* Manatee Co¥* Chino Valley¥* Delta Nevada CoSW¥ Santa Longmont¥* Marion Co¥* KENTUCKY Cochise Co SW Desert JD¥ Newark¥* Santa Louisville Nassau Co Glen Ellyn Boyle Co Coconino Co $ Diamond Bar¥ Newhall JD¥* Santa Cruz¥* Loveland¥* Orange Co E¥* Glencoe¥* Jefferson Co¥ x Coconino E¥* EI Cajon Newport Beach¥* — Santa CrazCoN¥* Montezuma Co¥* — Orange CoW¥* — Glenview* Jeffersontown Douglas El Cajon JD¥ North Fork Santa Maria¥* Northglenn Orlando¥* Highland Park* Lexington¥ Flagstaff¥ EI Dorado Co Novatox Santa Maria JD¥x — Thornton* Osceola Co Hoffman Louisville Fountain Hills NWY¥ Oak Park¥ Santa Monica¥* Westminster¥ Palm Beach Co Cx Ganado Chapter El Dorado Co SE¥ — Oakland¥ Santa Paula¥*« Sea EEDEENET eau beach CONY, LOUISIANA Gilbert¥ Encinitas¥*x Oceanside¥*« Santa Rosa¥*x CONNECTICUT Palm Beach Co S¥* Avondale Mesa¥x Escondido¥* Ontariox Santee Farmington Town¥ — Palm Coast Baton Rouge¥ Oro Valley¥*x Eureka¥* Orange* Saratoga* Hartford ¥* Pembroke Pines& — Lockport East Baton Rouge Paradise Valley¥* Fair Oaks- Orange Co SJD¥* — Scotts Valley¥* New Haven¥* Polk Co¥ Maine Twp¥ Parish¥ Peoria¥*x Orangevale¥* Orinda¥*x Seal Beach Norwalk¥ Pompano Beach¥ —_ Napervillex Jefferson Parish Phoenix Fairfield ¥& Oxnard¥* Sierra Madre¥*x Oxford Town Sarasota¥* Oak Park¥* EVx Pima Co N¥ Fallbrook San Palm Desert¥* Simi Valley¥* Plainville Sarasota Co N¥* Park Forest La Placex Pima Co C Diego¥* Palmdale Sonoma Co SD4¥* Ridgefield Town Seminole Co E¥ Park Ridge¥ Lafayette Pima Co E¥* Fillmore¥* Palo AltoWx Spring Valley¥ Stamford ¥*« Seminole CoW¥* Peoria Monroe Pinal Co¥x Folsom¥* Paradise¥*x eanendy West Hartford St. Petersburg¥*« Rockford¥ x New Orleans¥*: Prescou¥* Fremont¥x Pasadena¥ x ‘Townk unrise¥ x Roscoe Tivp Parish Scottsdale¥* Fullerton¥* Petaluma¥ Schaumburg port > Glendale¥*x Placerville “Temple Ci DELAWARE Skoki pmany Parish Glendora Pleasanton¥ Thousand Oaks¥* — Dover¥* Wilton Manors¥x —_ Springfield¥* s Hanford¥x Poway¥* kt New Castle Co St. Charles St. Tammany Parish Hayward¥x Prunedale¥x NW GEORGIA Urbana¥ wy Healdsburg Rancho Cordova¥ — Toro and Laguna New Castle Co Adantax Waukegan¥ x Hemet¥ Rancho Seca¥ x WY¥x Augusta Wheaton¥* MAINE Inglewood¥* Cucamonga¥ ‘Tuolumne C JD¥ Sussex Co Cobb Co SW¥x Wilmette¥* Auburn Irvine Redlands¥* ‘Tustin¥ Wilmington: Cobb Co Ex Woodstock Augusta) Rogers La Canada Redwood City¥* Union City pap CODD CONEY; Dexter Town Russellville Flintridge¥ x Richmond¥* Upland¥* DISTOF COLUMBIA Cobb Co S¥ INDIANA Eliot Town¥ x La Crescenta¥* Ridgecrest Vacaville¥ ‘Was! Cobb Co W¥ Angola Gorham Town CALIFORNIA La Habra¥& Vallejo Columbia CoE¥ —_ Bloomington¥* Kingfield Agoura Hills¥ La Mesax Ventura® FLORIDA Dalton Bloomington Twp¥ — Portland¥ Aliso Vi ea Lafayette¥ x Rocklin¥*x Ventura Co¥* Altamonte Springs — DeKalb CoN¥* Fort Wayne¥x South Berwick Laguna Beach* Rohnert Park Victorville¥* Adantic Beach Fayetteville Gary South Portland¥ Anahi mV Laguna Hills¥*« Vista x Brevard Co¥ nn Co¥* Indianapolis¥ x Antioch¥ Laguna Niguel¥* Walnut Broward CoS¥x = GwinnettCoN¥ — Kokomo¥x MARYLAND Lakeside¥*x Walnut Creek Charlotte Co Hall Co¥x Mishawaka Baltimore¥ Lancaster¥ West Hollywood Ci vitrus Co¥ Lithonia Mount Vernon Baltimore Co C¥ Arroyo Grande Ler non Grove Westlake Village¥ x Peach Co¥ Muncie¥*x Baltimore Co W¥* Bakersfield Whittier¥ Roswell¥* South Bend Calvert Co Belmont¥ Vincennes¥*x arroll Co¥x






ele Cooper ( Frederick¥* Beverly Hills¥* Yucaipa¥ Coral Springs IOWA Frederick Cox Boulder Creek Dade Co C¥ Ames¥* hersburg¥ Brea¥x ngeles¥x COLORADO Dade Co NV Greenbelt ¥« Arapahoe Cox Dade Co $ Howard Cox jpve Arvada Deerfield Beach Coeur Alene® Council Blufs¥ Laurel¥ 7 Aurora Fort Lauderdale¥ — Idaho Falls¥* Des Moines Montgomery Co Boulder¥x Gainesvil Lewiston¥ C¥K ] Boulder Cov Gtr. Gainesville¥ Moscow Montgomery Co Capitola Martinez¥ Capistrano Colorado Gulfpore¥ EW Carlsbad ¥ Merced¥x San Leandro¥ Springs¥* Hillsborough Co ILLINOIS Montgomery Co Cerritos¥ Milpitas San Leandro- Cortee¥ EW Arlington Heights Waterloo N¥x


page 50 THe AMERICAN BAnA’i © ADMINISTERING THE CAUSE June 24, 1999 [Page 51]

AD

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Bourne ‘Town Brewster

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Lexington Town Longmeadow ‘Town Lowell¥

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Laramie


June 24,1999. THE AMBRICAN BAnA’i * ADMINISTERING THE CAUSE — page 51 [Page 52]




“yourTn:




Closer to home: Decentralization

Youth Summit seeks new ways of sharing


inceltheladven tok the Regi@nall Baba Comncileunitha WISH cheladmintecatvelt S« the'nature ofwhich



coordination of acti In order to examine these

toa “Summit” meeting at the Baha’

resenting all four regions. The goals of the Summ: toward us, to develop ui




only beginning to be revealed. Relationships between the 's and plans for Baha’{ youth will increasingly be decentralized from the national to the regional level. Councils each to send three youths { National Center during the weekend of April 2-4. Eleven youths came for the Summit, rep ues, the National Youth Committe:


ity and bi to the Baha’i House of Worship, to the national Bah



sked the Regional Bal


titutions have





tered a period of tra

titutions will soon be solidified, and

were to share the love and encouragement that the National Spiritual Assembly consistently shows 1 upon it in our future work together, to connect the hearts of the youth from the regions i administration, and to each other. We di:

sed ways to establish an inter regional network of youth and to increase national/regional collaboration, shared information about the work of the National

Youth Committee, and talked about the effect of decentralization on our work, the mandates of the regional youth enti ics of the four regions, as well as the national community of Baha’s youth as a whole.

charac


Proceedings

A strong feeling of unity and love chara zed the consultation among the diverse group of youth at the Summit. We began by speaking from our hearts about our passions and worries as Bahd’is in this day. Many mentioned concerns about balancing all our duties, serving effectively, and winning the goals of the Four Year Plan. We explored our spiritual heritage, reaffirmed the urgency of the time in which we are privileged to serve, and highlighted the vital role that youth must play in the establishment of the World Order of Baha’u'llah. In discussing this vital role, we studied the words of the Universal House of J “Indeed, the Guardian wrote of the Baha’i youth that it is they ‘who can contribute so decisively to the virility, the purity, and the driving force of the life of the Baha’i community, and upon whom must depend the future orientation of its destiny, and the complete unfoldment of the potentialities with which God has endowed it.” —Letter from the Universal House of Justice to the Baha’é youth of the world, June 1966








Differences between the regions

The youth representatives described the purpose and mandate of each new regional youth entity, and talked about the culture, successes and challenges of their respective regions. Here is a synopsis of the new regional youth structures and their contact information— watch this space in the future for more detailed information about the work of these new youth entities:

SOUTHERN REGION

Committee: Regional Youth Coordinating Team of the Southern . First appointed in August 1998, the RYCT-S has six members from Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

Mandate: In brief, the primary responsibility of the RYCT-S is to mobilize and sustain a movement of youth to bring about entry by troops. They have also been called to work with the Latino and AfricanAmerican populations in the region.







youth movement, your role u | ‘o all veteran and aspiring Baha’i youth workshop coordi- Ac nators: You are invited to participate in an exciting seri



Contact: If you have any questions or comments about the Baha’i in it, or the regional and a“

national Baha’i institutions The Baha’ for youth, please contact the Los Angel

National Youth Committee A

(phone maasleonsnaa resource for the s|

e-mai ) or


the regional youth entities listed here.




raining Institutes for Workshop Coordinators!



mbly of Los Angel Youth Committee, is des

Baha’i youth workshops. In May 1999, the BYWI entered the plot launch phase of a



Participants in the Youth Summit during April pose on the steps of the Baha’i House of Worship. They included members of the National Youth Committee and two to three youth from each of the four regions of the continental United States.

Photo by DeWitt Tolbert


s, the

CENTRAL REGION

Committee: Four sub-regions States have their own regional youth committees:

¢ Illinois and Indiana.

© Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

  • Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Kansas.
  • Ohio and the Lower Peninsula of Michigai

Mandate: In brief, the role of these sub-re; committees is to develop the capacities of youth as teachers, administrators and full members of the Baha’f community. Contact:







WESTERN REGION

Committee: Recently, the Regional Baha’i Council for the Western States established a youth desk. It is staffed by two people to oversee and help implement the Youth Plan of the RBC-West.

Mandate: In brief, to implement the Regional Baha’i Council’s plan to establish training institutes for youth by stimulating grassroots activity and through engaging Local Spiritual Assemblies and Auxiliary Board members in the plan.

Contact:

NORTHEASTERN REGION

Committee: The Northeastern Regional Youth Committee was first appointed in July 1998, with 10 members in two main areas, Boston and New York.

Mandate: In brief, to inspire youth, stimulate teaching and activity, and serve as the eyes and ears of the Regional Baha’i Council regarding youth matters Contact:


In reflecting about the characteristics of each region, it became clear that an understanding of the regions based on ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s Tablets of the Divine Plan is absolutely necessary in order to better cope with the challenges of ministering to the needs of youth in such vast and complex jurisdictions. #


ANNOUNCING:




Youth Workshop Institute (BYW1), ba: under the auspices of the Local Spiritual s in partnership with the National gned to serve as a central ematic training and development of





or





Regional Baha'i Youth Workshop Coordinator’s Training Institutes

demy for training workshop members, a Coordinator's ‘Training In: further

ed in Coordinator Teacher's Training Institute for training individuals to serve If you are interested in parti training institutes, and think there would be enoug! ed participants e contact the National Youth anston, IL (phone 847-733-3499, e-mail Mossa


itute for training new coordinators and providing pport to experienced coordinators, and a





of the CTI. pating in any one of th

s facilitator/teachei




a to make it one of the t


ng s Sommittee Off


yeb in Los Angeles (phone 323-933-8291, e).¢



page52 Tne AMERICAN BanA‘i* Your

June 24, 1999 [Page 53]


Youth Summit participants kept their business sessions at the Baha’i National Center light-hearted but purposeful. Photo by Liz Dwyer

The business of the Summit

National Youth Committee’s role

Ji recently, the onal Youth mmittee’s work has been focused on stimulating activity and implementing programs across the country. Some of that work will continue, such as provid










for communi is, traveli meet with the youth in person, and

ring ree owerey the




Baha'i youth community. We ced to the regional youth representatives that we are launching a systemat study of the American Baha'i youth community, a process in which we hope the Regional Youth Committees will play a major part. Teams will examine the status of Baha’ youth from several angles, and will compare this with that of young people in Ame: in general.

Here are some of the questions we are interested in: ¢ The status of race unity among

Baha’i youth.

¢ The status of equali and men among Bal

  • Successes and challenges of Baha’i

campus associations.

  • Successes and challenges of Baha’i

youth workshops.

  • The Baha'i Youth Service Corps

program.

¢ Peer pressure and social issues such as drugs, alcohol, violence and abu:

¢ Youths’ relationship with the Covenant and with the institutions, especially Local Spiritual Assemblies.

  • Strengthening modes of communication for youth, such as e-mail,

newsletters, Web sites and The American Baha'i Youth Page.

  • Youth conferences and gatherings.
  • Feast, prayer and daily obligations.

¢ Talents and skills of the U.S. Baha’ youth community.

We would like to gather input from the community about these questions, so that we may get the most complete picture possible about who the Baha’i youth in our community are. We hope that the regional youth entities will increasingly be thinking along similar research lines,

annou














gathering information that will help them guide the youth of their region, and contributing data to the national pool.

National youth movement ‘The group also discussed measures by which we can gauge the progress of the Baha’i youth community. Can it be said that there is currently a E youth the United States? It is difficult to give tangible examples of what





youth movement.



awareness that goal-ori key in making plans and developing programs. We ied some prerequ to the process of developing

  • Strengthening of individual faith

and the spiritualization of our lives, including rectitude of conduct, chastity, and a freedom from prejudice.

  • Development of a collective consciousness and common vision on the part

of youth who are involved in this process. Everyone should feel a part of a larger effort.

A national youth movement would in part be characterized by increased, constant activity, increased interaction amongst the youth, increased youth participation in training insitutes, personal teaching efforts, Holy Days and Feasts, and ultimately the achievement of entry by troops.




Systems and collaboration

Decentralization will require new levels of communication and collaboration between institutions. Determining a tem for communication about youth affairs was one of the primary foci of the weekend. ‘The National Youth Committee was really impressed with the maturity and spirituality of this consultation, the dominating theme of which was to learn to look at the Administrative-Order as a family.

One of the proposals for such a system was the establishment of a network of youth “lieutenants” around the country who would facilitate the dissemination and gathering of information on regional and local levels. A prototype of this network has been established by the Southern Regional Youth Coordinating vam, and shows a lot of promise. Overall, the development of systems for interaction between youth entities is an ongoing process rather than a single, independent event.











ages 17-25 living i D"“ you know...

‘That you are one of the greatest forces for good in the new millennium?

Shocking news assaults us every day, and many of us struggle to hold on toa vision of our nobility and spiritual power in the face of societal sicknesses. We wonder what we can do that is of concrete value when everything in the society around us seems to be. crumbling. The Universal House of Justice acknowledged these troubles in the Ridvin 156 Message, and yet is welcoming the new century with a vision of hope and promise. You as a young person. can play a very powerful role in making this hopeful vision of the new century a reality!

“The cause of Baha’u’llih marches tlessly, quickened by the increasing application of an approach to the development and use of human resources that is systematic. The further creation of national and regional training institutes has pressed this development forward.” —Universal House of Justice, Ridvan 156

‘The further development of training institutes is a powerful force in building a vision of hope for the 21st century. One of the ways you can contribute significantly to this process is to offer service at one of the five national Baha’i schools and institutes, namely:

  • Bosch Baha’s School.
  • Green Acre Baha’i School.
  • Louhelen Baha’ School.
  • Louis G. Gregory Baha’i Institute.
  • Native American Baha’i Institute.

These schools and institutes are in urgent need of servants to help their work. While the numbers of students and seekers who benefit from these learning institutions are ever-increas ing, some of the schools and institutes are at their lowest number of youth service volunteers in recent memory, which in some cases makes it difficult to function even on a basic level. Youth have enormous power to assist in the growth and development of thes i





the United States

Enormous power of youth #1:

The permanent schools and institutes are powerful tools of the Cause.

‘The Universal House of Justice tells us that the development of systematic education and training programs is one of the most important ways to advance the process of entry by troops. ‘The national schools and institutes in the United States especially are designed to do this. As volunteers arise, the schools and institutes are able to function more effectively.

Enormous power of youth #2:

The capacity to help is in your hands.

The Universal House of Justice calls on us to “make your mark now, at this crucial turning point of a juncture, the like of which shall never return. Make that mark in deeds that will ensure for you celestial blessings—guarantee for you, and for the entire race, a future beyond earthly reckoning.”

Enormous power of youth #3:

Service offers a unique opportunity to grow spiritually. —

Part of offering a period of service to the Cause is the special time you are able to devote to prayer, meditation and deepening. It is a time when you can form special friendships with everyone—co-worker, student, visitor—who crosses your path. It is a time when you are setting the pattern of your life’s service.

‘There is a pressing need for shortand longer-term youth volunteers and Baha’i Youth. Service'Corps members. now and throughout the coming months. A ‘wide array of needs exists, so we are seeking a wide range of capacis and skills. If you are interested in if to serve at one of the national schools and institutes, please contact the National Youth Committee as soon as possible (phone 847-733-3499, email ).¢







Have you hosted or participated in a

Neighborhood Race Unity Dialogue? Have you made friends of different races or cultures? What challenges have you faced? What have

been some victories? Let us know!

BE ON THE YOUTH PAGE?

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR RACE UNITY?


National Youth Committee Baha’i National Center 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201

phone 847-733-3499 e-mail

WE ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR EXCITING AND INFORMATIVE MATERIAL TO HELP ALL BAHA'I YOUTH ARISE TO SERVE THE FAITH.



June 24, 1999

THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ Your page 53


[Page 54]

Convention visitors hear importance of openhearted intercultural teaching

BY JAMES HUMPHREY


scare and learning are keys that open doors between races and cultures when we bers of three ke:


rise to teach, said memhing committees at a session for visitors at the Baha’ National Convention in late April.

“We need a lot of tivity and a lot of education,” said Fernando Huerta of California, speaking for the National Latin-American k Force, “because even though we are one, we are not the same.”

But even as we address these needs, “nowhere in this Faith does Baha’u’llah teach us that Hispani 7 Hispanics, blacks teach blac! teach whites,















. “Let us


but let us move together. What t us together is the Covenant of Baha'u'llah.”

On the morning when Convention delegates voted for the National Spiritual Assembly in closed session at the House of Worship, the visitors were treated to a program by the National American Indian Teaching Committee, the National African American Teaching Committee and the Latin-American Task Force.

Playing quiet host to the gathering in downtown Evanston, Illinois, was the National Teaching Committee.

Central to each presentation was a loving and practical gift to the friends in America, the past year’s fruits of each committee's efforts:

© Protocols for American Indian Teaching, a handbook containing general principles and specific guidelines for bringing the Teachings to the indigenous of this continent.

“This committee has been overwhelmed by the response worldwide by those who have requested the Protocols,” said Sara Bigheart of Oklahoma, a member of the American Indian ‘Teaching Committee.

Ina McNeil of New York, also on the committee, said the 24-page document grew from years of consultation with many believers.

¢ Exploring the Historical and Spiritual Significance of Being a Person of African





The materials below are available through the Baha’i Distribution Service (phone 800-999-9019)

  • Protocols for American Indian

Teaching ($3)

  • Exploring the Historical and

Spiritual Significance of Being a Person of African Descent in the Bahd’i Faith ($8)

  • Sacred Texts and other books

and materials in traditional and simplified Mandarin Chinese (ask

for prices).

The materials below are available through the National Chinese Teaching Task Force (phone 847733-3506, fax 847-733-3509, e-mail

  • Study materials developed by the

Macau Baha’ Institute, modeled on Ruhi Institute materials, developed by Chinese Baha’is for the Chinese. The series of courses represent a study of the fundamental verities of the Faith, based on the Creative Word (in both Chinese and English). Training for use of these materials is

  • “Developing Your Teaching

Message,” a course to help the friends develop the ability to present the Teachings in a clear and systematic manner to the Chinese.

Descent in the Baba’ Faith, a workshop manual produced to encourage study and teaching.

Compiled by race relations scholar Richard Thomas, the manual includes excerpts from the Writings and from literature plus many biographical sketches. It also has exercises and a_facilitator’s guide for group study.

“Tt is not just good reading, it is a workbook,” said Elarryo Bolden of Illinois, a member of the African American Teaching Committee.

  • A soon-to-be-published bilingual

prayer book, with English and Spanish translations of selected prayers presented side by side.

Excerpts were available to give partici CONVENTION NOTES

pants at the meeting an idea of how the gift-quality book will present prayers revealed by the Central Figures of the Faith.

Huerta noted in the Latin-American ‘Task Force’s presentation that Hispanic


to bridge the gaps the world presents, because many Spanish-descended people in the An » have indigenous and African blood lines.

Though not presenting an ex program, the National Chinese ‘Teaching Task Force lent members to an open forum at the end of the program. Their message w: with the tone of the morning: T to unity and teaching is through listening and lea

Hundreds of Chinese Baha’is in the United States need deepening and contact with the larger Baha’i community, said task force member Albert Cheung of Illinois. “Talk to the local Chinese friends and find out what they’re interested in. Get to know them,” he said

Providing an emotional centerpiece for the entire program was the AfricanAmerican Teaching Committee, aided by an array of friends from across the country.

A dramatic offering of readings was drawn from material reproduced in the Person of African Descent manual. Overlaid with meditative music, interspersed with energetic ballet and folk dances, a call-and-response song and a poetry reading, the presentation ended with a spirited singalong as a multihued circle of people held hands around the conference room.

But most remarked-on that morning was the Protocols booklet, which won universal praise for its well-researched guidelines on respectful behavior by Baha'i teachers who are guests of an indigenous nation.

Among other purposes, the booklet is meant to help prevent well-meaning teachers of the Faith from accidentally offending the people they are trying to reach. Entire American Indian nations have been “inoculated” against the Baha’i Faith in some cases, the committee sadly reported.







ning.







NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ANSWERS QUESTIONS In consultation on the National Assembly and agency reports, members of the national body were called upon at times to clarify issues such as the 800-22UNITE seeker response line; the role of Mottahedeh Development Services in social and economic development efforts; publishing for a general audience; and the campaign urging the U.S. government to pay its arrears to the U.N.

Delegates also asked about the invalidation of results from three Unit

Convention elections. Robert Henderson likened the decision to the Universal House of Justice’s ongoing nurturing to restore “paper” Local Spiritual Assemblies to active status. Development efforts have made headway but some Assemblies have had to be trimmed until they can rebuild.

The same is true of Units in which only one vote is recorded at election time, said the secretary-general. But he emphasized the action “does not mean abandoning souls who are not partici

pating. It means starting anew to develop Baha’i communities.” HUQUQU’LLAH TRUSTEES

‘The final report of this year’s National Convention came, as customary, from the Board of Trustees for Huqtiqu’lléh.

In attendance were all five American trustees: Amin Banani, Stephen Birkland, Sally Foo, Daryush Haghighi and Elizabeth Martin.

Banani said response to the Right of God has been a true testimony that the friends are observing the law with joy



NASIF HABEEB-ULLAH STONE MOUNTAIN, GEORGIA

Interview by Ramzia Duszynski Photo by Vladimir Shilov




THE PROCESS [OF CON: TION] here at the Convention is one of the greatest pro . It is very

thrilling for me as a delegate to see the sensitivity of the National Assembly and the delegates and allowing the other delegates to address [the issue of the Thomas Jefferson portrait in Foundation Hall of the House of Worship]. ... To see the future of the world order is very exciting.

‘The most wonderful event that has happened in our community since the beginning of the Four Year Plan was the acquisition of the Baha’i Center. The process of consultation that the Assembly went through, the unity of the Assembly, was great. It was a very thrilling and exciting moment in my Baha’ life.

The whole idea of the center was the thought about the needs of the youth in the community. A youth got killed in the community, and then we decided that it’s time to do an intervention work.

Our center is serving the outside community. It has an auditorium that seats 300 people; a gymnasium, which is very well-used by a youth group on Friday nights. It has a computer class, and the ‘Toastmasters club, another club designed primarily for young people. Most of the people in this club are not Baha’is.

T am involved with a group of African-American male Baha’is who have committed ourselves to the statement on the equality of women and men [Tivo Wings of a Bird). My personal goal is to put all of my

r s teaching issue.









and radiance. But he shared the Universal House of Justice’s concern that the significance of Huqtqu’lléh has not permeated the Baha’i community, and he urged delegates to convey the need for a greater awareness that will elevate our endeavors to a spiritual level.

Haghighi praised the role of Huqdqu’llah representatives, Assemblies and the Auxiliary Boards for their help in promoting ongoing education. He said the goal is for Huqiiqu'llah to become an integral aspect of Baha’ family life.


page 54

Tue American BanA’i ¢ NATIONAL Convention 1999

June 24, 1999 [Page 55]

EVV EUs aie ai ( 800-999-9019

World Order

Fall 1998 issu

The Millennium Issues and A 1911 Meeting with ‘Abdu’l-Baha

designed to add to your understanding of millennium discussions:

the concept of “the end” by looking at linguis s that the Bible predicts the end of the world. He ible is closer to Baha’{ scriptures than most of us


Your window to teaching, deepening, and external affairs







have thought.

  • William P. Colli

ment, the Baha Also: Ahang Rabbai ‘Abdu’l-Bah Pari 1911 makes available historic documents of psychological importance, while revealing yet another glimpse of effect of the Perfect Exemplar on those around Him. Plan now to get the Winter 1998-99 issue, soon to be published. Bill Collins, in the second part of his discussion of the Baha’ interpretation of biblical time prophecy, illuminates how to use Baha’i books on the topic in reaching American Protestants influenced directly or indirectly by Millerite views on the return of Christ.


in the first of a two-part article, explores the Millerite move











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Revealing the Splendors of His Light: Exploring Spirituality in Baha’ Life

Institute for Baha'i Studies 1999 Conference Aug. 7-8, 1999 ¢ Kendall College, Evanston, IL


Presenters represent a range of intellectual backgrounds and approaches to spirituality. The conference program includes:

  • A special opening address by Dr.

David Ruhe, a former member of the

Opening banquet



Universal House of Justice. Friday, August 6

  • Reflections on service by Ticket: $10

Margaret Ruhe.

And presentations on: For those arriving the

  • Spirituality in the Workplace
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previous evening, a special opening banquet will be



¢ Spiritual Autobiography held with a keynote address

  • Justice, Fairness and the by David Ruhe. The banquet

Meekness of God also will feature a presenta* Consciousness as Causal and New tion about the Wilmette Paradigms of Science Institute and the accomplishments of its students, many

s well as other experiential and of whom will have just theoretical explorations of spirituality. completed the fourth An effort will be made to incorporate residential session.

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Registration and Accommodations registration fee: $65. On-site registration fee: $75. includes continental breakfasts Saturday and Sunday, dinner Saturday evening, and a conference packet. There is no day-student rate. To register by mail: Use the Mulitipurpose Form below (a separate copy for ach person). Enclose a check forall applicable fees, payable to the Baha’i Serv Fund (we are unable to accept payment by credit card). Under “Special Information,” state whether you have included the $10 fee for the Opening Banquet, and state any special needs you have. Mail the c









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Low-cost accommodations have been secured at Kendall College, 2408 Orrington A\


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For complete program or more information on accommodations Please contact Lynne Yancy (phone 847-733-3548, e-mail ) or Kevin A. Morrison (phone 847-733-3522, e-mail )





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June, 24, 1999

one American, BAA‘ * Seeking Your Response’. page 55, [Page 56]

Lawrence Hautz made his mark in Zimbabwe

es Albert Hautz, beloved

ioneer and devoted servant of the Cause of God, died at his pioneer post in Zimbabwe on February 12, 1999. He was 90.

Born Aug. 19, 1908, Larry moved with his family from Ohio to Wisconsin. at an early age. While at school, he was a well-known newspaper boy and a high school cheerleader.

Through the Boy Scouts he developed an interest in conservation, particularly in the study of birds. In 1929, he was awarded the Hornaday Medal for his six years’ work in creating a bird sanctuary and wildlife refuge at Pewaukee Lake. Larry and his troop planted 3,500 trees and 1,000 berrybearing shrubs, erected birdhouses and squirrel feeding stations. He later helped establish a 2,000-acre wildlife sanctuary in Rhinelander. He was inaugurated into the Pueblo Indian tribe as Cl “leader of many song birds” for his work in bird conservation.

Larry began a successful insurance sales career at age 22. In 1939, he became a Baha’i, something he shared with his wife, Carol.

One of Hautz’s most notable services came during a 90-day stay in the Holy Land right after World War IL. He had intended to make a nine-day trip, but at the request of the Guardian he undertook delicate negotiations with the





Alexander Alexay, renowned. pianist,

loncert pianist and accompanist to the stars Alexander Alexay passed to the next world April 20, 1999, in New York City. Born into a family of musicians on September 29, 1901 in Ottawa,

Message to the National Spiritual Assembly of Zimbabwe: SHARE YOUR DEEP SENSE OF LOSS IN PASSING DEARLY LOVED LARRY

HAUTZ, FAITHFUL, GENEROUS, ENERGETIC SERVANT BLESSED BEAUTY. HIS SIX DECADES DEVOTED ENDEAVOURS BEHALF CAUSE GOD MARKED BY NUMEROUS TEACHING TRIPS BOTH ON HOME FRONT IN UNITED STATES AND ABROAD, HIS UNSTINTING MATERIAL SUPPORT CAUSE, HIS MEMBERSHIP NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY UNITED STATES, HIS PIONEERING TO ZIMBABWE FROM EARLY STAGE TEN YEAR GLOBAL CRUSADE. THESE OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS WERE ENHANCED BY SPECIAL SERVICES HE RENDERED BELOVED GUARDIAN, INCLUDING HIS INDEFATIGABLE EFFORTS AT NEGOTIATIONS WHICH CULMINATED IN ACQUISITION VITALLY NEEDED PROPERTIES SURROUNDING AND SAFEGUARDING HOLY SHRINES. WE ARDENTLY PRAY FOR PROGRESS HIS NOBLE SOUL THROUGHOUT DIVINE WORLDS.

THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE

Israeli government that enabled the Faith to acquire vital Baha’i properties.

In that mission, Hautz’s movement among people of prominence was greatly enhanced by the efforts of Labor Minister Golda Meir—a. future Israeli prime minister who was from the same Wisconsin town as Larry, and who was -d by the Faith and the Bahia’is. served the United States on the National Youth Committee, the Temple Maintenance Committee and the National Reference Library Committee. This stage of service culminated in his election to the National Spiritual Assembly at Ridvn 1953. That year he also served on the Local Assembly of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin.

In 1954, after traveling to 16 coun


Canada, Alex spanned the 20th century. Alexay heard of the Baha'i Faith many years before he enrolled in the Faith. In 1984 he met Hiromi Kubo, a Baha’i. Within about three years the two were mar tries throughout the world, Larry and his wife, Carol, settled in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in response to the call of the Ten Year Crusade. The couple established a motel 11 miles from Salisbury, the capital (now Harare). In addition to running the motel, Larry founded a snake park and established a school on the property which grew from an initial 20 students to over 400. Always aware of the teaching needs, the Hautzes witnessed the growth of their Baha’i community and the Local Assembly there.

On a 1971 visit to the United States, Carol fell ill and discovered she had cancer. She died in California; fortunately Larry was able to be with her.

In 1980, when Larry was 72 years old,

independence was established in


Zimbabwe. That year, Larry sold the motel and moved into town. His health deteriorated over the last 10 years.

In a statement read at his funeral in Harare, the National Assembly of Zimbabwe noted, “In the height of racial discrimination in then Rhodesia, Larry took a bold step and against all odds established the first school on the supposedly ‘white owned’ property for the indigenous children.

“Larry loved Baha’w'llah and in his own way served His Cause with the best of his ability,” the statement said in part. “Many of the younger generation or new believers did not have the opportunity to meet Larry Hautz, but we have no doubt that the shining example of his dedicated services will be the guiding path for the present and future generations. May his pure soul rest in peace in the Abhé Kingdom.” @

Lawrence Hautz served for a year on the

| National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, and once handled sensitive negotiations for Shoghi Effendi.


found the Baha’i Faith in later years

ried and he declared his faith in Baha'u'llah.

At his memorial service April 24, Mrs. Alexay shared that it was the Sacred Writings that most attracted Alexay to the Faith. She said that for him the words


Electa M. Alexander Portland, OR April 11,1999

April 19, 1999



Elizabeth E. Clark Hutchinson, KS February 22, 1999

May 9, 1999

IN MEMORIAM


Louise A. Groger Los Gatos, CA March 22, 1999


James B. Allen ‘Thomas D. Davis John A. McMeekin Margery Scheidet Mildred Sullivan Lincoln, NE Peoria, IL Butte, MT Wading River, NY Des Moines, IA March 21, 1999 January 1, 1999 April 2, 1999 March 21, 1999 May 6, 1999 Mary Jane Austin Katharine P. Dutton Jerelyn R. Minnick Bernice Schreiber Chau Thao Beltsville, MD Worcester, MA Reno, NV Nevada City, CA Portland, OR April 4, 1999 April 29, 1999 May 9, 1999 April 7, 1999 May 4, 1999 William D. Brown Frank Edmunds Jr. | Hedayatollah Nayersina Ziaeddin Shahparnia Erik T. Townsend Des Moines, IA Eliot, ME Santa Monica, CA Redondo Beach, CA Douglas, AZ

August 1998

Wallace H. Carter Jr. Dean H. Fraser Frank Noble Edward M. Smith Elizabeth M. Trice ‘Temecula, CA ‘Tucson, AZ Brimley, MI Oxnard, CA. Delray Beach, FL March 10, 1999 March 7, 1999 January 1999 April 27, 1999 April 9, 1999 Joseph Centko Jr. Marjorie H. Greenway Shirley R. Recks Hermon Hovanessian Edward M. Wininsky Jr. Huachaca City, AZ Manchester, NH Laconia, NH Sobhani Sharon, PA March 19, 1999 October 2, 1998 April 20, 1999 Mission Viejo, CA November 17, 1998 April 26, 1999 se ee

Fariborz Sanai Jersey City, NJ March 19, 1999

December 3, 1998

Mark S. Spittal Seattle, WA March 4, 1999

March 18, 1999




of Baha’u’llah were music in their own right, and they were not enhanced by setting them to music or providing musical accompaniment.

In addition to his beloved wife, Alexay is survived by his son, Mario, of Green Valley, Arizona.


sional career as a concert pianist, vocal coach and accompanist to many world-famous opera singers and recitalists began in his teens in vaudeville and movie houses. After saving enough money to pursue formal studies in Europe, he was accepted as a student of Emil von Sauer, a pupil of Fran: Highlights of Alexay’s distinguished career include working as a coach for composer Sigmund Romberg’s operetta ons, and serving as staff pianist y conduc









tor Arturo”

Alexay performed at the White House for Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon. Among the singers Alexay accompanied from the 1930s through the 1980s were Mari Anderson, Helen Traubel, cs Schumann-Heink, Richard “ . Peerce, Jarmila Novotna, Roberta Peters, Jerome Hines, Robert Merrill, Mario La Anna Moffo and Renata Scotto.

Hines, the Metropolitan Opera bass with whom Alexay played in more than 2,000 performances, attended the memorial service.





page 56 THe AMERICAN BanA’i ¢ IN MEMORIAM

June 24, 1999 [Page 57]

lassified notices in The American

Bahdé’t are published free of charge to the Baha’f community. Because of this, notices are limited to items relating to the Faith; no personal or commercial ads are accepted. Some of the opportunities have not been approved al Assembly; the judgment and





care in responding.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES


AT BAHA'I INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY, UNITED NATIONS OFFICE New York, New York Secretary to Chief Administrative Officer. Works closely with and provides adminispport to the Chief istrative Officer. Should have excelills; strong written and verbal communication skills essential. Knowledge of MS Word preferred. Position available in July. If interested, ¢ contact Dorothy Longo, operations officer, Baha’{ International Community, 866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 120, New York, NY 10017 (fax 212-803-2566).





Archivist wanted (on a consulting basis) for U.S. Baha’i M Services in

for our audio and Contact: Dolly

i Media Services (phone




847-853-2352).

Wanted: Activities Director and Property Manager, wwo dedicated Baha’ is (ideally a family team) who can put in the necessary hours to keep up and improve the Baha’f Center of South Orange County in San Clemente, California. We just celebrated the center’s second anniversary and our oal is to make it a focal point for ent by troops before the end of the Four Year Plan. We offer housing and utilities, plus a stipend if needed. Please contact the Spiritual Assembly of San Clemente, P.O. Box 5181, San Clemente, CA 92674 (phone 800-293-2727, ask for Betty or Howard Tangler; fax 949-498-1863; mail ; Webs www.bahaicenter.com).





INTERNATIONAL China: Numerous openings for English teachers and professionals willing to travel for service in this rapidly developing country. For more information contact Susan Senchuk (phone 847-733-3506, fax 847733-3509, e-mail ).

PIONEERING / OVERSEAS




‘The Office of Pioneering is listing all positions sent to us by other national Baba’t institutions. Soon, a compilation of Web site and e-mail addresses for job searches will be a standard featu BAHAMAS: Self-supporting couple to serve as caretakers for the National Cente: BELIZE: Couple or individual to serve caretaker for Baha’{ Center in Belmopan, national capital.

COSTA RICA: Full-time service for 6-12 months for Spanish-speaking, supporting ( rehearse) youth to work with Baha’i Youth Workshop.

EASTERN CAROLINE ISLANDS: Custodian/Caretakers (independent means).

GAMBIA: Permanent Institute manager. HONDURAS: Elementary and secondary school teachers.









MACAU: The School of Nations needs qualified kindergarten, primary and secondary teachers. SAMOA: -time caretakers for House of Worship with extensive practical skills building maintenance, gardening, }; prefer those with independent means. supporting couple to serve as custodians of the Baha’ Center in Honiara. Volunteer to train National Center office staff. ‘THAILAND: Volunteers needed in vari‘ous areas of the country to help ki centers open, assist wit i tasks at the National Center, teach hill tribe communities, etc. These opportunities are open to youth. ‘TURKS CAICOS ISLANDS: Great need for medical personnel including family physicians with a variety of specialties: internist, obstetrician, health care ice manager, clerical officer, biomedical technician, medical records officer. VENEZUELA: Self-supporting couple (preferable) to serve as caretakers of the

saha’i National Center and assistants to the National Assembly secretary. Pioneers are urgently needed in Mérida, a beautiful location in the Andes. WESTERN CAROLINE ISLANDS: Custodian/caretakers (independent means). For additional information regarding jobs and study abroad, please contact the Office of Pioneering, Baha’i National Center, 1233 Cenu se, Evanston, IL 60201. If you live in: © Northeast or Central States, call Alex Blakeson (847-733-3511). © Southern States, call Sherdeana Jordan (847-733-3507). ° Western States, call Aurore Ragston (phone 847-733-3512).

contact the Office of Pioneering (phone

847-733-3508, e-mail »

PIONEERING / HOMEFRONT

















Wyoming needs you. Whether you are a youth searching for a college, a family, retired or looking for em Seeman the Baha'is of Wyoming need you. At Ridvan two Local Spiritual Assemblies were formed; before then the entire state had none. The forward momentum must continue! We have clean air, no traffic, safe schools, unlimited opportunities for service to Baha'u'llah. Wyoming is the least populated state in America. We also have fewer than 90 adult Baha'is. If you'd like to help us make a difference, contact Dru Hanich, P.O. Box 273, ‘Thayne, WY 83127 (phone 307-883-2277, e-mail ).

Florence, South Carolina, needs deepened Baha’{ families to help us into ihe stage of our development: full recognition in the community. Within broadcast range of Radio Baha’, Florence h: the first Baha’i Center in South Caroli owned by Baha'is. More than 400 pe the membership list, and Ba

ration is stable, but there are golden teaching opportunities. Florence manages to be peacefully rural—farmland all around, both beaches and mountains nearby—whi : Roche Carolina, G ledical Systems, and Honda Manufacturing of ca have facilities in the area, and exploding. ity and Floren Darlington ‘Technical College are nearby. Please contact Bret and Anne Breneman phone (843-667-1540, e-mail













Berea, Kentucky, a town of about 12,000 in the Appalachian foothills, warmly

i you to help our group build a Baha’{ community in this naturally beautiful rural setting, which features Berea College, a tuiuon-free liberal arts college. ‘The town is noted for traditional moun


tain arts, crafts, music, culture and hospi. A welcom own for students, ‘ea is 45 miles from Lexington, which has a full service airport, ty amenities, medical services and an. supportive Baha’i community. For information contact the Baha up of Berea, Berea, ky 40403 (phone 606-986-1547 or 606-985-9160).








ARCHIVES



The National Baha ng, at the request of the Universal House of Justice, original letters written on behalf of the Guardian to the following individuals: Belle Costanten, Ben Costanten, Devora Costanten, Paul G. Costanzo, Joel Cowon, George W. Cottrell and Betty Covington. Anyone knowing family members or relatives who might have these Guardian’s letters is asked to contact the National Baha’i Archives, 1233 Central $ vanston, IL 60201-1611 (phone 847-869-9039).






The National Baha’f Archives has prepared a series of biographical sketches of prominent African-American, Native American, Hispanic and Asian Baba’is for the use of local communities in Black History Month, Race Unity Day and other special events observances. There is also a partial chronology of U.S. race

acti . Any local community or lual wishing a set of these sketches sked to send a request with a mailing address to the National Baha’s Archives, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 602011611 (phone 847-869-9039).








YOUTH


Youth Service Corps y ult volunteers needed


AT Bosch, LOUHELEN, GREEN ACRE, Louis Grecory Institute, NABI

If you can give a few weeks or months this summer, we need people at these permanent Baha'i schools and institutes to provide:

  • office and registration help,

¢ kitchen and cleaning help,

  • recreation and library help,
  • maintenance and grounds help,
  • children’s class teaching help.

We provide room and board. Contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central Si anston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

WANTED

Wanted: Stories of the lives of Bab@is who were imprisoned or rd. Yama iter/director Renae in theater pro ion on Broadway. I am conductin, research for a new play based on the life of Baha’is in Iran during the Revolution, and am ing individuals who served a n term or have stories of others who were persecuted. I intend to open this play off-Broadway before the end of the fi lease contact Shidan









‘our Year Plan. P Majidi (phone 212-726-2331, e-mail .

BAHA’! CHAIR, continue From pace 1

poets and artists from several backgrounds and nations, great and small.” He went on to say, “Through a consultative process, a widespread agreement can be achieved and controversy avoided.” The keynote talk by the former president—who was a voice for stability during some of Lebanon’s worst war-torn years— is a prestigious step in development of the Baha'i Chair for World Peace, noted Suheil Bushrui, the University of Maryland professor who holds the Chair. Other distinguished guests and speakincluded Dorothy Nelson, representing the National Spiritual Assembly; C.D. Mote Jr., newly inaugurated pres dent of the university; Irwin Goldstein, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Si s; and Ernest J. Wilson, director of the Center for International Development and Conflict Management. In only its sixth year since the academic post was established in cooperation with the National










impact on the university community, with local, national and international effects.

Recently, the publication of two works has drawn considerable attention and praise to the Chair:

  • A monograph titled The Spiritual

Foundation of Human Rights has captured the attention of institutions internationally and has introduced the concept of spirituality to the major global issue of human rights.

° Kahlil Gibran: Man and Poet, coauthored by Bushrui and colleague Joe Jenkins, has received favorable reviews in the U.S., British and Arabic press. Part of this work deals with Gibran’s relationship with ‘Abdu’l-Baha.

Also, the University of Maryland Parents’ Association recently nominated Bushrui as the most outstanding faculty member.

“This award really goes to the Baha’i Chair itself,” Bushr J, adding that it reflects the great impact the Baha’s Chair has had on the lives of countless students and the academic community at the university.




Speakers and guests at the Baha’i Chair Lecture included (from left) Dean Irwin Goldstein, Ernest J. Wilson III, Dorothy Nelson of the National Spiritual Assembly, university President C.D. Mote Jr., Lebanon’s former President Amine Gemayel, Baha’i Chair holder Suheil Bushrui, Hormoz Hormozi, Mary Bushrui and Patricia Mote. @


June 24, 1999.


CSYE PS oT

ee any ene EO OTD

Page 57

OnE ol Oe og6q

bANKG Havin GUA | OC OgRG [Page 58]


PAID SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES AT THE BAHA’I NATIONAL OFFICES

AT THE BAHA'I NATIONAL CENTER EVANSTON, ILLINOIS

Executive Assistant, National Teaching

ice. Helps secretary of National ‘Teaching Committee carry out the work of the National Teaching Office. Coordinates projects relating to the ational teach ng plan; helps develop reports to National Spiritual Assembly,







NTC and Regional Baha’i Coun serves as liai

between NTC and other nistrative department

cles for The American Babat. ieeds knowledge of Baha’i writings and Administrative Order; experience in proj fone nd








vork history. i heet, desktop.




publishing, Inte travel required. Media Coordinator, National Teaching



Babd’i Newsreel, regional training programs and other gather Adv nd assists local and regional media efforts. Maintains and monitoi ional 1-800 tem for se up





g relevant to media with various Baha’s


media organization: background in media, education and/or extensive experience with project management, knowledge of Baha'i writings and Administrative Order. Research Coordinator, National Teaching Office. Gathers and analyzes information on internal and external issues affecting growth and development of the communicates anal and recommendations to National Spiritual Assembly and National Teaching C important information to Regios Councils and to the b ers in general. Collaborates with various offices. Needs advanced degree in research-oriented field (social sciences and/or marketing pi ferred but not required h organi tional, analytical and interpersonal skills; extensive knowledge of Baha’ writings and Administrative Order. Concrete Artesan-Apprentice, Conservation. Assists Concrete/Stone Conservator in the ongoing conservation of the Baha'i House of Worship and its surroundings. Must be competent in mixing, placing, g and curing concrete flatwork or architectural precast components; experienced in b Hing forms or making molds. Familiarity with pressure or acid cleaning, sandblasting or pneumatic demolition an asset, as leadership/supervisory capacity. Vz se required. Must be comfortable working at heights wearing full or half-mask respirators. Must be able to interact with the public in a pleasant, friendly manner. Conservation Coordinator, Conservation. Does inspection, recordkeeping, testing and research for the Conservation Program at the Baha’i House of Worship; maintains information systems of the Conservation team; manages projects of limited scope. Duties require working at heigh ts using roofs, catwalks, ladders, affolding, vertical lifts, bosun chairs, rane harnesses etc. Must have three years’ experience in engineering technology Srrl/onesncenaconeare| degree in engineering technology, museum science or related field. Skill in sketching and word processing. Well-organized, accurate, thorough and patient. Cooperative, co1 sultative and flexible. Preservation experience desirable. Administrative assistant (part-time), U. a t Refugee Office. Provides admi trative support to the coordinator and assistant coordinator of the U.S. Baha’























YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED to submit your résumé for one of these paid positions at the Baha'i National Center

and other agencies of the National

These are full-time positions

(unless otherwise indicated) with very good medical and dental benefits. We look forward to hearing from you.



skills; valid driver’s license.

driver's license.


IMMEDIATE NEEDS

Bahd’i Properties Office, Wilmette: Maintenance Technician. Responsible for preventive maintenance, inventory, inspection and coordination of repairs to Baha’{ properties. Needs general knowledge of building maintenance and operations; will work with electricity, plumbing, mechanical and masonry repairs.

Office of the Treasurer, Evanston: Accountant. Needs strong interpersonal and analytical skills and familiarity with integrated PC-based accounting software. CPA and experience in implementing internal control procedures are highly desirable. Must have degree in accounting or equivalent accounting experience. Some travel required. Must be able to maintain a sense of humor while working in a fast-paced, flexible environment. Appreciation for the importance of confidentiality essential.

Office of the Secretary; Evanston: Administrative Aide. Provides support for National Convention, prepares logistics of National Spiritual Assembly meetings, provides telephone support, types correspondence as necessary, orders office supplies, copies, files, runs errands. Must show ability to work with confidential material; ability t work as part of a team; excellent organizational skills. Must type 45-50 wpm accurately; needs basic word processing

Persian/American Affairs Office, Evanston: office’s manager and program coordinator follow up on execution of programs and projects; performs general office functions, including records management; handles correspondence in Persian and English; translates documents and letters as needed. Must be skilled in Persian and English written and oral communication skills, familiar with Baha’i administrative practices, familiar with Iranian culture. Must type 30 wpm in English and Persian, and be able to perform detailed work with frequent interruptions.

Mail Services, Evanston: Clerk (2 positions). Performs general mail service duties, including efficient handling of incoming and outgoing mail plus shipping, receiving, distribution and storage. Must be computer-literate, especially in Microsoft Office programs. Must speak, read and write English; needs valid

If interested, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).

Assistant. Helps the



Refugee Office. Prepares correspondence to mie and to Baha’i, government and other agencies involved in refugee re: ment. Helps prepare reports, mainta records, helps with information gatheri processing and computer input of the Southeast Asian Baha’ refugees. Helps compile and write the Southeast Asian Helpers Bulletin, articles for The American Baba’ and other publications. Prover ty to work with confidential information. Strong written and oral ski Administrative Assistants. ‘ ings possible. Will clerical and secretarial functions required to implement administrative needs effectively. Must be deepened Baha'i wellgrounded in the spiritual principles and administration of the Baha’ Faith. Must perform administrative duties in a mature, efficient and professional manner; must be familiar with computer word processing applications (Windows 95, Word, e-mail and various databases extremely helpful); good communicator, highly organized, confident and capable of working steadily, often on many things at once. Must be able to speak, read and write English.

If interested in any of these positions, contact the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).













OFFICE OF INFORMATION SERVICES BAHA’l NATIONAL CENTER

Systems and support manager. Responsible for management of opera al support team, applications group and help desk. Assigns work orders to staff and tracks their timely completion. Applications developer. Provides highlevel analysis, design and implementation of information systems. Fami variety of technologies including tools, database tools, and Web too! LSAI Supy . Coordinates support act for LSAI project. Provid trai mana support for LSAI. Handles initial requests for support, escalates support issues to support team when nec sary (LSAT help desk). Develops training-related communications als, assists promotion and educ Database administrator. Coor: database development. Respe Enterprise SQL server indlading security rights, table design, normal Responsible for design and implementation of user and departmental applicaions as front ends to SQL using MS.

ss, VB, or other tools as determined. Transfer desk, Membership Office. Strong data entry and communication skills required. Helpful if Persian speaking. Will



















cooperate with Refugee, Persian/American Affairs and Pioneering Offic Data entry clerk, Membership Office. Will transcribe contact information from the 800-22-UNITE voice-mail syst Needs transcription experience; will cooperate with the National ‘Teaching Committee office. If interested in any of these positions, eee the Othe Hen Resources, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733-3427, fax 847-733-3430).






At BAHA'I TRADE PUBLISHING WILMETTE, ILLINOIS OR FULTON COUNTY, GEORGIA Publisher. General manager and chief officer; public and legal . Responsible for the product nd financial results of the







policies, ene rtmen|

and busines manner that cre ves the wish of the Na psserably) to develop a present retail bookstor


communication skills; excellent presenta tion, negotiation and problem-solving

in publishing and busines:

management, including financial, person nel and marketing management; extensive

nowledge of literature and Baha’ pr

chelor’s degree with related

owledge of or expe ence in distribution and/or publishing

ervice on Baha’i adn rative








Office Manager. Supervises day-to-day operations of Baha'i Trade Publishing with special focus on acquisitions, editorial and administrative functions. Helps the publisher develop and m: new enter



ge prise. Develops and maintains office

management systems for smooth admini tration. Need


excellent written and oral ation skills; expertise in publishing and business management; high level of organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines; at least bachelor’s degree with related work experience; expertise with | spreadsheets, word proces management and other bu: knowledge of or experience in d

nd publishing business; knowledge of literature and Baha’ princip If interested in either position, contact the ee of Human Resources, 1233 Central “vanston, IL 60201 (phone 847-733307, fax 847-733-3430).










At BAHA’i DistRIBUTION SERVICE FULTON County, GEORGIA Assistant Manager. Supervises day-to-day

operations of BDS with special focus on marketing and customer service. Promotes sale of Baha’i books, music, periodicals and special materials through the Baha’i Distribution Service and Subscriber Service. Qualifications: Ability to represent the National Spiritual Assembly and the Baha’{ Faith in a consistent and dignified manner in all communications; ability to apply Baha’{ principles and management skills to lead and develop peoples varied expertise in communicatio busi reporting, correspondence, negotiating, consultation and facilitation; bachelor’s degree with related work experience; familiarity with content and usage of Baha’ literature; high degree of computer literacy with special focus on developing and maintaining Web financial and business management experience; retail sales and marketing experience in r industry. If interested, please cona the Office of Human Resources, 1233 Central St. Evanston, IL 60201 (phone 847733-3427, fax 847-733-3430) or Ford Bowers (phone 800-999-9019 ext. 111).




















page 58.

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ANRITSU S SSSDET NR PTO

  • INTERNATIONA

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TEACHING

¢ Greenland: The first-ever teaching trip by local bel within this territory brought two teachers to Sisimiut, on behalf of the Youth Wing of the Permanent Institute for the Baha'is of Greenland. Over three weeks, the team held a youth gathering, conducted Ruhi ned the concept of . “I know in the future I will ind be grateful for the opportunity laid down by God to help deepen other fellow believers,” reported one of the teachers. “I could really feel the Hand of the Blessed Beauty guiding us both.” © Canada: An eight-province tour by William Hatcher, author and philosopher, helped the National Spiritual Assembly meet its goal of “organizing extensive lecture tours by distinguished Baha’f schol: and also helped 28 local communit develop the capacity to organize public events with media coverage and contact with people of capacity. Hatcher's lectures on 30 campuses from Nova Scotia to mbia, on the themes “Proofs of the Existence of God” and “Authentic Morality,” consistently attracted audiences ranging from 60 to 300. ¢ Australia: Months of collaboration among 42 Local Assemblies in the Sydney area sowed the seed of the Faith with hundreds of thousands of people through mass distribution of pamphlets, highprofile advertisement and outreach from the House of Worship, the Australian Baba’ Bulletin reported in the spring. “It was about us stepping out of the closet and saying, ‘We are the Baha’is,” said Ann Hinton, an Auxiliary Board member. Groundwork was laid by five regional teams of Assemblies coordinating firesides and multicultural celebrations, culminating in a single “Feast for the Soul” that attracted more than 2,500 people for several public activities in and near the ‘Temple. Immediate results of the campaign included 12 declarations of faith and nearly 200 requests for information.





















¢ Zimbabwe: “Onward with Confidence, Vigour and Speed,” more than 400 participants were exhorted at the international summer school in Harare. Universal House of Jy*tice member Adib Taherzadeh spoke on the Covenant to attendees from 25 countries, who also participated in sessions on advancing the process of entry by troops, unlocking the power of the soul, a Baha'i view on economics, meditation and gender perspectives. Performances included “dramas about the life of Tahirih and the first Baha’f martyr in Africa interpersed with beautiful cla performances, dances, songs and hilarious comedy skits,” a newsletter in the region reported.

¢ Russia: Students, parents and teachers responded to a series of workshops on The





SOUTHEAST ASIAN, continuen From Pace |

Peer eevee cere ccrces eee eee eee esses see see ees ees eee eee see ee ese eee see Ee EOE EEE Eee Ee EEE SEED OOS E EO EeDETOOEEeeeeeeessese®

Also in attendance were several shortand long-term pioneers to those fertile and spiritually receptive regions, plus numerous Refugee Office helpers whose sacrificial efforts ensured the attendance at this gathering of so many Southeast Asians.

Among the people drawn to declare their faith in Baha’wlléh at the conference are three prominent men who have worked to help Hmong youth in Central California:

¢ Khu Yang, a former Baptist minister and the current coordinator of the

mere Office programs, contact:

U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office 1233 Central Street Evanston, IL 60202

Phone 847-733-3547

E-mail


Hmong Educational Opportunity Foundation. He has held weekly classes at the Fresno Baha’i Center on the Hmong culture, whose origins are in Laos. He is also involved in numerous social and economic development programs, especially involving youth.

  • Jer Yang, the president of the

Hmong Youth of Fresno organization.

  • Xao Yang, cultural education coordinator for the Hmong Educational

Opportunity Foundation.

Another highlight of the conference was “A Celebration of Diversity,” an evening dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of each of the participants, including songs, dances, poetry and other performances in their native tongues and in their traditional dresses.

Southeast Asian youth, under the direction of Refugee Office helpers, performed Pa’Ndau, a musical drama depicting the flight of refugees from Laos and Thailand to America. #



Virtues Guide in the cities of Miass, Moscow, Perm, Petrozovodsk and St. Petersburg. Most of the workshops were aimed at Baha’y participants, but two lectures were conducted for university classes and over a dozen for younger students. ©

DEVELOPMENT


  • Bangladesh: More than 200 people

received dental treatment within two weeks through dental camps in Rajshahi, Rangpur and Dhaka organized by a Bahé’i dentist and his assistant, Hedayatullah Mohebati and Sehail Azimi. They were helped by health workers trained at the National Baha’i Development Institute. #

“imprové the

EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

© United Kingdom: ‘Tony Blair, prime er of Britain, sent the following to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom on March 21:

1 congratulate the Baha’i community on the centenary of its establishment in this country. | share your principle of equality between all people and welcome your encouragement of dialogue between those of different faiths and cultures. | hope your Centenary and New Year celebrations are a great success.

Eastern Africa: The leaders of several countries are acknowledging the ideals and services of the Baha’fs in a variety of ways this year.

In Mauritius, President C n Uteem gave the keynote address at an interfaith World Religion Day observance at the Baha’ Institute in Belle Rose, on the theme “Towards a Caring and Prosperous Community.”

In Mozambique, President Joaquim Chissané and Justice Minister Jose Abudo. took part in a World Religion Day observance in Maputo sponsored by the Religious Forum of Mozambique, with Baha’i participation in the planning and the program.

In Uganda, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni accepted Baha’ literature as the Baha’{ booth—exhibiting examples of business projects that women can use to situations—was one of several he visited at an International Women’s Day fair in Kampala. ¢ France: More than 200 people attended an interreligious prayer gathering in Rouen, at which an independent peace organization honored 205 Baha'is martyred in Iran since the late 1970s. Offering prayers and scripture readings were the Catholic archbishop of Rouen, the imam of the Mosque of Rouen and a representative of the Jewish community. Only 20 at the gathering were Baha'is, including two National Assembly members.
















A U.S. Baha’i Refugee Office helper (left) poses with three of the distinguished

declarants at the Southeast Asian Community Builders Roundtable Conference, all active helpers of Hmong youth in Central California: (from center left) Khu Yang, Jer Yang and Xao Yang. A teaching and service effort in the area has brought the Baha’i Faith to more youths since the conference. Photo courtesy of U.S. Baha'i Refugee Office


June 24,1999 ‘THe AMERICAN BAnA‘t ¢ INTERNATIONAL News '*’ page 63'* [Page 64]


FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS sponsored by the National Spiritual Assembly or its agencies at the Baha’i National Center, please phone 847-869-9039 and ask for the relevant department. Numbers and e-mail addresses for the permanent Baha’i schools and institutes are: Bosch Baha’i School, phone 831 School, phone 207-439-7200; fax 207-438-9940; e-mail Louhelen Bahs’i School, phone 810-653-5033; fax 810-653-7181; e-mail

. Louis G. Gregory Baha'i Institute, phone 843-558-5093; fax 843-558-9136; e-mail . Native American Baha'i Institute

423-3387; fax 831-423-7564; e-mail


Green Acre Baha’i

(NABD, phone and fax 520-587-7599; e-mail .¢





9-11: Hemlock Haven Bah’ School,

_ Hungry Mother State Park, VA. See page 15. 9-14: Youth Eagle Institute at Louhelen, for youth ages 15 and up. 9-14: Two sessions at Green Acre: “A Short History of the Baha’i Faith” (enrollment limited); “Spiritual Descendants of the Dawn-Breakers: Our Glorious Heritage,” for grades 7-12. 10-15: Three sessions at Bosch: “Spiritualizing Community Life,” family session; “Youth Issues: Race and Gender”; and Youth Garden Project (limited; ages 12-16). 16-21: International Dialogue on Education at Louhelen: “Spiritual Hunger and Moral Dissatisfaction with Society: A Golden Opportunity for new Educational Approaches.” 16-21: “Teaching and Community Growth,” Friends and Families session at Louhelen. 16-30: Junior Youth Academy for middle/junior high school age students at

Louis Gregory Institute.

17-22: Persian Session at Bosch. Specia!

Persian language classes for children.

PAID SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES AT











BAHA'I NATIONAL CENTER 112 LINDEN AVE WILMETTE, IL 60091-2849


Brownsville, WL See page 15. _

23-Aug. 9: Children’s Academy at Louis Institute.

24-25: Work Weekend at Native

American Baha’f Institute.

25-30: John H. Wilcott Baha’i School,

near Livingston, MT. See page 15.

27-29: Heartland Baha’i School,

Galesburg, IL. See page 15.

23-28: Spiritual Empowerment Institute

for Junior Youth at Louhelen, for ages

12-15.

24-28: “Investigation of Reality”/“Mass

Conversion: A Modest Proposal” at

Green Acre.

24-29: Youth Institute at Bosch, for stu dents entering grades 10-12.

13-18: “Community Growth through

Strong Families,” Friends and Families

session at Louhelen.

28-Aug. 1: Four Corners Baha’i School,

Vanderwagen, NM. See page 15.

29-Aug. 1: Dayspring Baha’i School,

Frostburg, MD. See page 15.

Great Plains Baha’i School,

page 15.

Zommunity Growth

Through Divine Civilization,” Friends

and Families session at Louhelen.

31~Aug. 4: Carmel Baha’ School, east

of Portland, OR. See page 15.

31-Aug. 5:Junior Youth Institute at

Bosch, for students entering grades 7-9.



- The second annual Race Unity Poster Contest held by the Baha’is of Chandler, Arizona, reached out to 40 local schools and received more than 200 entries, including this prize-winner by Corbin Glendenning in the K-3 category. All entries were displayed at the public library during April, and the effort was

honored by a mayoral proclamation March 25.

24, 1999 RANHUT, KALIAAT - B.E. 156






Coeeteie at

1-14: Youth Academy for high school age and older at Louis Gregory Institute. 5-8: Texas North Baha'i School, Bruceville, TX. See page 15. 6-8: Tonalea Council Fire at NABI. 6-11: “Spiritual Transformation and Spiritual Generalship,” Friends and Families session at Louhelen. 6-11: “Mystic Medicine: Health and Healing in a New World Order”/“Unlocking the Power for Action” at Green Acre. 7-12: Two sessions at Bosch: “Preparation for Marriage and Family Life” for people ages 20-30; “Baha’iInspired Curriculum for Teachers.” 11-15: William Sears Great North Woods Baha’i School, Onamia, MN. See page 15. 11-15: Badasht Baha'i School, west of Roseburg, OR. See page 15. 13-18: Two sessions at Green Acre: “The Transformative Power of Love in Our Personal, Family and Community 4 es”; Core Curriculum ‘f} \cher


B ie “Community Growth through Strong Families,” Friends and Families session at Louhelen. 13-23: Solomon R. G. Hilton Baha’ School, Poughkeepsie, NY. See page 15. 14-16: Eastern Oregon Baha'i School, Suttle Lake, OR. See page 15.

To avoid unnec mailing label to: Int acquiring a Post Office box, yo

ing. (This also updates the National



School, Easton, WA. See page 15. 16-19: Fundamental Verities teacher training Session I at NABI. 20-22: United Spiritual Gathering Council Fire, “Forging Enduring Bonds of Unity,” Neah Bay, WA. Small registration and camping fees apply. Please contact the Baha’is of the Makah Reservation, P.O. Box 306, Neah Bay, WA 98357 (phone 360-645-2153, e-mail

); see Web site (www.olypen.com/jensens/). 20-25: “Pathways to the Lesser Peace”/“Greater Boldness: Seeking True Equality” at Green Acre. 21-26: Bosch 25th Anniversary Reunion. 27-29: “Managing With the Wisdom of Love: Applying Baha’i Principles to Business” at Green Acre. 27-29: 40th annual Green Lake Baha’i Conference, Green Lake, WI. With David Ruhe, Counselor Stephen Birkland, Layli Miller Bashir and others. For prograin contact Lori Block (phone 920-4327110, e-mail ). For housing/meals, call 800-558-8898. 27-29: Massanetta Springs Bahai School, Harrisonburg, VA. See page 15. 28-29: Work Weekend at NABI. 28-Sept. 1:\“Awakening the Arts, session at Bosch.



family


‘A. NAME(S)

~ID#


ID#


Dt


IDt


B. NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS,

C. NEW MAILING ADDRESS


Street Address

Street Address


Apartment # (if applicable)

Apartment # (if applicable)








City Ci

State Zip code State Zip code D. NEW COMMUNITY E. HOME TELEPHONE NUMBER

Name of new Baha'i Community Moving Date Area Code Phone Number Name

F. WORK TELEPHONE NUMBER(S)

Area Code Phone Number Name ‘Area Code Phone Number Name


G. WE RECEIVE EXTRA COPI

we do not have the same last

Tae We do aoe wat ea? Lal copies, so please cancel the copy for the person(s) and ID number(s) listed above.


only one copy.


match, We have listed above the full names of family members as they should appear on the national records, their ID numbers, and the corrections so that we will receive

H. 1 WOULD LIKE A COPY

Our household receives only

‘one copy of The American Babé’s. 1 wish to receive my own copy. I have listed my name, ID number and address above.





Tue AmeRican BanA’i

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