Race Amity: A Correlation Between Racial & Social Justice

Racial amity refers to friendship and goodwill among people of different racial backgrounds, often emphasizing the importance of understanding and cooperation. It is rooted in the idea that amity is essential for achieving social justice and fostering harmony within society.

“My hope is that through the zeal and ardour of the pure of heart, the darkness of hatred and difference will be entirely abolished, and the light of love and unity shall shine; this world shall become a new world; things material shall become the mirror of the divine; human hearts shall meet and embrace each other; the whole world become as a man’s native country and the different races be counted as one race.” `Abdu’l-Baha

The Baha’i teachings advocate for racial amity as a fundamental aspect of humanity's unity and progress towards equality and justice.
In 1921, one hundred and four years ago, the Baha’is gave a gift to the world, the concept of “Race Amity” in the United States (now being celebrated 2nd Sunday of June). The first convention of Amity occurred between the races in Washington D.C. Fast forward, in 1965 (as the Civil Rights movement began to advance), the term “Race Unity” was used more commonly. The concept of Race Amity has morphed into something more notable, as it is being celebrated around the world (i.e. New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands).

Since these concepts have been infused into the world, let’s consider these questions for consultation:
• How can I become more aware of my own unconscious biases/prejudices?
• How do I ensure that my actions are aligned with unity, and don’t just end with words?
• How have I been able to establish and maintain meaningful friendships with people of different races? How can my example influence my community, to inspire people’s hearts to become agents of change as it applies to having constructive conversations about race and justice?

The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.” ~ Baha’u’llah)

In this meetup let’s explore ways that we can develop and maintain the kinds of cross-racial friendships needed to build and sustain a unified and peaceful society. Baha’is are working through-out the world to advance the whole of humankind toward unity and justice. People of all backgrounds, religions, and beliefs are welcome!

We would rather you attend in person at 124 Madison in Oak Park, but if you can't we understand. Here's a zoom link, just in case: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88158217522?pwd=cGxNeDR2eCthN0k2d2tlSk1sMnViQT09