June 2020
We stand therefore in need of a universal power which can prevail over the thoughts, opinions, and sentiments of all, which can annul these divisions and bring all souls under the sway of the principle of the oneness of humanity. And it is clear and evident that the greatest power in the human world is the love of God.
–‘Abdu’l-Baha
Forging a Path to Racial Justice: A message from the Baha'is of the United States
The Baha'is of the United States join our fellow-citizens in heartfelt grief at the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and so many others whose lives were suddenly taken by appalling acts of violence. These heartbreaking violations against fellow human beings, due only to the color of their skin, have deepened the dismay caused by a pandemic whose consequences to the health and livelihoods of people of color have been disproportionately severe. This has come to pass against a backdrop of longstanding racial injustice in virtually every aspect of American life. It is clear that racial prejudice is the most vital and challenging issue we face as a country.

Yet, amidst these tragedies, there are also signs of hope.

Outpourings of memorial flowers, art and performances fill the “Intersection of Hope” in South Minneapolis. Photo by Kari Carlson.
Intersection of hope:
South Minneapolis Baha’is
becoming one with neighbors
An intersection of hope. This is how residents of South Minneapolis now lovingly refer to the site where George Floyd died, at the corner of East 38th and Chicago avenues. The site is familiar to news audiences, as the heart of what mobilized people around the globe to express their desire for justice in May and June 2020.

The Minneapolis Baha'i Center, one block from the site, serves as a point of distribution for food donations to the neighborhood's "Intersection of Hope" in the wake of the death of George Floyd. Photo by Kari Carlson.
A circumnavigation on the wings of Baha'i choral music
Episode 3: Uganda
Prior to COVID-19, Northwestern University student, Christopher LaMountain, set out to visit Baha’i Houses of Worship around the globe and study the emerging musical culture at each. He kept a diary of his travels and this month we share a podcast about his visit to Kampala, Uganda, to the continental Baha'i House of Worship for Africa.

NEW!
Weekly chats of hope, unity, and the connecting of hearts

Bahai.chat is a conversation series dedicated to our interconnectedness. It is an uplifting moment when we can turn our thoughts to spiritual ideas. Each weekly session is rooted in the Baha’i Writings and the fundamental teachings of the oneness of God, religion, and humanity, led by individuals who are putting these principles into action.

Together, we aim to think about our spiritual reality through a lens of truth, justice, and equity. Join us in considering the oneness of mankind, our individual capacities to create change, and the depths of our collective spiritual purpose.


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Ongoing:

Wednesdays, at 6:30 pm CENTRAL, via Zoom
Led by: Neda Najibi and Dr. Dalton Garis

Registration is required.
Upon registration you will receive a confirmation email with information about joining the meeting. Study materials will be emailed along with a syllabus.

FREE book ONLINE
Purchase the book HERE
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NEW!

The Call of The Divine Beloved
Wednesdays, starting June 24 at 8:00 pm CENTRAL, via Zoom
Led by: Neda Najibi

Registration is required.
Upon registration you will receive a confirmation email with information about joining the meeting. Study materials will be emailed along with a syllabus.

FREE book ONLINE
Purchase the book HERE
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Connect anytime
Do you have a particular question about the Baha'i Faith? Let us know if you'd like to talk with a Baha'i, request free literature, or find Baha'is near you.
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National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States
1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
enewsletter@bahai.us | www.bahai.us
800-22-UNITE (800-228-6483)