Day Of Action For Human Rights In Iran

I am interested to learn that non-partisan human rights group United4Iran is coordinating an international day of action to highlight the dire situation in Iran.

On June 12 (22 Khordad), the global community, international human rights NGOs, grassroots organizers, artists, academics, and more are organizing a global day of action to highlight a year of crackdown and human rights violations in Iran. The day will include online advocacy campaigns, as well as local events in 60 cities around the world. It will focus on prisoners of conscience and each city will adopt & advocate for one prisoner of conscience.

Source: United4Iran

Baha’i Homes Raided In Iran

I am concerned to learn that the persecution of Baha’is continues in the Iranian province of Mazandaran. On May 11th so-called  ‘intelligence agents’  raided the homes of Changiz and Parviz Oladi in Ghaemshahr and confiscated CDs and pictures.

According to a RAHANA reporter, the recent increase in the number of arrests and house raids targeting the Baha’i community is the result of the recent anti Baha’i seminars which were held across the province.

Source: Iran Press Watch

Prehistoric Unity In Diversity

I find it heartening that recent research suggests Neanderthals and modern humans interbred http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8660940.stm It is a wonderful image of ‘unity in diversity’ unlike previous theories of conflict between the two groups. It brings to mind the words of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Consider the flowers of a garden. Though differing in kind, color, form and shape, yet, inasmuch as they are refreshed by the waters of one spring, revived by the breath of one wind, invigorated by the rays of one sun, this diversity increaseth their charm and addeth unto their beauty. How unpleasing to the eye if all the flowers and plants, the leaves and blossoms, the fruit, the branches and the trees of that garden  were all of the same shape and color! Diversity of hues, form and shape enricheth and adorneth the garden, and heighteneth the effect thereof.

‘Even As The Phoenix Of Love…’

O SON OF SPIRIT! Burst thy cage asunder, and even as the phoenix of love soar into the firmament of holiness. Renounce thyself and, filled with the spirit of mercy, abide in the realm of celestial sanctity.

Bahá’u’lláh