U.S. Baha’is have long promoted race unity by espousing racial justice, as well as seeking to eradicate the root causes of such injustice. Baha’u’llah (1816-1892), Prophet and Founder, compared people of African descent to the pupil of the eye—a reflection of what’s before them and source of spiritual light. The metaphor highlights their unique contribution to the advancement of mankind—collectively they serve to illuminate social conscience. 

In light of recent racial unrest and urged by their governing bodies, the Fairhope Baha’is have intensified their focus on racial prejudice—“the most vital and challenging issue” facing Americans. Small prayer groups meeting via Zoom have centered discussions on examining personal issues related to the book White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo, followed by group meditation focused toward all people seeing others as family. They also continue their support of the Hope Community (a diverse citizens’ group dedicated to solving racial issues and spreading interracial friendship) and joined the interfaith march in Fairhope with 200 citizens seeking racial justice and a peaceful future.

To learn more regarding the Baha’i teachings on race unity, visit Bahai.us/race-unity-action. To join an online discussion/prayer group, contact [email protected].