WHEREAS, the City of Richmond prides itself on its rich diversity, which is enhanced by the presence of members of the Baha'i Faith, whose contributions are invaluable to the cultural and spiritual fabric of our community; and
WHEREAS, since its inception in Iran 180 years ago, the Baha'i Faith has endured ongoing persecution for its beliefs and teachings in its country of origin; and
WHEREAS, the Baha'i Faith promotes principles that are foundational to a just and harmonious society, including the unity of humanity, the elimination of prejudice, the concord between religion and science, the equality of genders, the centrality of education, and the pursuit of world peace; and
WHEREAS, the Baha'i community upholds the universal right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and
WHEREAS, members of the Baha'i community in Iran are systematically denied access to higher education and government employment and often face long detentions without charges, as well as unjust and vague accusations resulting in imprisonment, solely due to their religious beliefs, within the context of a government-endorsed campaign that encourages social boycotts, economic repression, and defamation of the Baha'i faith; and
WHEREAS, the execution of ten Baha'i women in Shiraz in 2008, who ranged in age from 17 to 57, exemplifies the extreme sacrifices made by Baha'is in the defense of the fundamental human right to freedom of thought; and
WHEREAS, further details on the tragic execution of ten Baha'i women in Shiraz are provided in a comprehensive article written by Councilmember Soheila Bana, which is included in the agenda's supporting material to offer additional context to this resolution, and
WHEREAS, the ongoing persecution and violence against Baha'is are a result of ignorance and extremism, yet the majority of Iranians do not endorse their government's actions against the Baha'i community and stand in opposition to such injustices; and
WHEREAS, recognizing and celebrating the Baha'i community's peaceful resilience and dedication to societal advancement is essential; and
Proclamation Honoring the Bahai's Steadfast Commitment to Defend Freedom of Thought and Religion
WHEREAS, recognizing and celebrating the Baha'i community's peaceful resilience and dedication to societal advancement is essential; and
WHEREAS, Nowruz, which signifies the Spring Equinox and this year of 2024 occurs on March 20, is celebrated as the commencement of the Iranian and Baha'i New Year.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Richmond hereby honors the Baha'i community for their steadfast commitment to human rights.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City of Richmond affirms its dedication to safeguarding the rights of all minorities to practice their religion without fear and to live free from any form of stigmatization.
FINALLY, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Richmond is an advocate for the honor, security, and well-being of all residents, irrespective of their faith or belief system.
____________________________ ___________________________ Claudia Jimenez, District 6 Soheila Bana Vice Mayor, Co-Sponsor Councilmember, Sponsor
Dated: March 5, 2024