February is Black History Month
What is it, and why is it important for interfaith work?
Black History Month focuses our attention on notable Black figures, past and present, who put their mark on the world. Inventors and scientists, political and govt figures, religious and business figures all show how Blacks have affected the world around us. In a country where maybe World and American history is mainly white, it’s important for everyone to realize the contributions made by others. Others are just as capable, just as talented, and have just as much potential as whites. Each individual has their own potential but needs education and opportunities to fulfill those potentials.
Why is this recognition important in interfaith work? Black Americans are in most religious communities in America, whether that be Islam, Baha’i, Christianity, Buddhism, Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, etc. Recognizing their talents and abilities, whatever those may be, is honoring them as individuals, is embracing them as God’s Children, is giving them the dignity they deserve.
We know from Genesis, God created all of humanity, so we are all God’s Children. From the Baha’i Faith, my religion, we are told God loved us, therefore God created us as one people, every person with a soul without gender, without race or nationality.
Today, man-made nations have divided us, man-made prejudices have separated us, but through God, we recognize ALL people as God’s children, with all the potential talents, abilities, and capacities that opportunities can provide. Let us who believe in interfaith work embrace ALL people as God’s people and be actively loving and kind to all.
Serene Erby
President