, A BAHa` i ` COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

www.brilliantstarmagazine.org VOL. 49 NO. 1

SPEAKING UP FOR RACE UNITY AND JUSTICE

QUIZ: HOW WELCOMING ARE YOU? tt

BAHÁ’Í NATIONAL CENTER 1233 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. 847.853.2354 [email protected] WHAT’S INSIDE Subscriptions: 1.800.999.9019 www.brilliantstarmagazine.org Published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States FAVORITE FEATURES Amethel Parel-Sewell EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR C. Aaron Kreader DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace Amy Renshaw SENIOR EDITOR 4 He faced exile and injustice with courage. Heidi Parsons ASSOCIATE EDITOR Annie Reneau ASSISTANT EDITOR Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Nur’s Nook 8 A craft inspired by an American Indian symbol MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Mei Arrowsmith • Sophia Berger • Lisa Blecker Leo Reed Breneman • Tod Ewing • Layli Graham We Are One Garrett Haghighi • Andrea Hope • Kevin Locke Lindsey Lugsch-Tehle • Nora Lyon • Sara Moore 11 Explore and care for the place we all call home. Paziano Parel-Sewell • Layli Phillips • Donna Price Gail Radley • Christopher Rash • Beata Reintjes Anya Schroder • Salena Vare • Dr. Dawn Wright Riley’s Rainforest 12 Could your brain be prejudiced? ART AND PHOTO CREDITS Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted By Lisa Blecker: Photos for pp. 8–9 By Foad Ghorbani: Art for p. 6 Lightning and Luna: Episode #74 Historical photos courtesy National Bahá’í Archives, unless noted 14 What happens when Elka Ego’s followers desert her?

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 7, 11, 13, 14, 19, 26, 29 By Heidi Parsons: 6, 16, 22, 28 Radiant Stars By Annie Reneau: 4, 12, 21, 25, 27 By Lisa Blecker: 8 16 Get to know kids who shine, like you. By Donna Price: 10, 11, 14, 20

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS To order or renew a subscription, contact Bahá’í Subscriber Service: Maya’s Mysteries Toll-free: 1.800.999.9019 / E-mail: [email protected] 20 A quiz on scientific facts about race Standard U.S. rates: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years) International airmail: $38 (One year); $68 (Two years) Canada and Mexico: $28 (One year); $48 (Two years) Stargazer: Tod Ewing RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE All content in this magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly 22 He strives for racial justice and healing. of the Bahá’ís of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. “Brilliant Star” and issue date must be present on all copies, and proper credit given to the copyright owner. Shining Lamp: Magdalene Carney 24 She educated hearts and minds worldwide. Brilliant Star empowers kids to explore their roles as world citizens. Inspired by the principles of peace and unity in the Bahá’í Faith, we encourage readers Cosmo’s Corner to use their virtues to make the world a better place. 28 A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon The Bahá’í Faith is the second most widespread religion in the world, with over five million Bahá’ís. It was founded by the Prophet Bahá’u’lláh (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Bahá’u’lláh taught that aMAZEing ADVENTURE all people are part of one human family, and all 29 Soar through space with Zeke and Rhombus. religions come from one God. Bahá’u’lláh’s eldest son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, interpreted His teachings and led the Bahá’í community after Bahá’u’lláh’s passing. Today, Bahá’ís work to bring love and justice to the Geometric stars by Markovka world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

ISSN 0884-3635 tt

­­­­­­ POWER OF UNITY VOL. 49 NO. 1 • MARCH/APRIL 2017

NEW DESTINATIONS

More Than Two Colors 2 Andrea Hope shares her experiences of race. ­­­­­­ DEAR FRIENDS How Welcoming Are You? , 6 Quiz yourself on your inclusive attitude. Like a painting with the vibrant colors of a rainbow, humanity is an amazing canvas of diversity. But that Sheep Smarts beauty isn’t always appreciated. Though we’re one 7 They don’t let stereotypes hold them baaa-ck. human race, people from various cultures or Uprooting Racism backgrounds are often treated unfairly. 10 Dig deep to defeat prejudice. The injustice of racism causes great harm and pain to individuals, families, and our world. To achieve Respectful Remedies peace and unity, we need to love one another like Tips for fighting microaggressions 13 sisters and brothers. In this issue of Brilliant What Do You Say? 19 Practice speaking up about injustice. Star, explore how to put love into action to help end Monster CommUNITY racism. Find out why our 21 Tame beastly thoughts with tasty treats. brains create prejudices and how to stop them. Practice what Privilege: An Unfair Game to say when you see or experience 25 What can games teach us about justice? prejudiced behavior. Create a hoop inspired by an American Indian symbol for harmony. Quiz A Memorable Meal with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá yourself on how well you include others. And get to 26 He treated everyone with respect. know Tod Ewing, who applies spiritual solutions to his The Hair We Wear work for race unity. 27 Hairstyles reflect our cultures. Most people want justice and peace. But it will take a lot of effort to paint a global mural that honors everyone. First, we all need to work together to erase prejudice. How will you help?

® LOVE, STAR PRINTED IN THE U.S. ON AN FSC -PAPER BRILLIANT 5

Skyline by Spectrum Studio, Earth by Double Brain More Than By Two Colors Andrea Hope hen I was a kid, Open Heart I moved from Now I’m 30 years old, and I’ve Freeport, Bahamas, seen this truth with my own eyes. Wto Virginia, United States. The I’ve been to Europe, Africa, and winters were icy cold in my new Asia and seen the beauty of so city, and the American accent many cultures that contribute was very different from my incredible things to the world. I’ve Caribbean one. But the biggest met people in every country with difference was seeing so many colorful personalities and the new colors of people. In the same desire for understanding. Bahamas, almost everyone had One of the amazing people I met brown skin, but in the U.S. there is my husband, Marcin, who is were “beige,” “peach,” and “paper from Poland. bag-colored” people. At least, Andrea and her husband, In my marriage, I sometimes those were the words I used to Marcin Góra, were married in still feel the pain of racism. When describe them when talking to ‘Akká, Israel, in 2015. They law enforcement treats me my mom. currently serve at the Bahá’í differently than my husband It took me a while to realize World Centre in Israel. while traveling, it makes me feel that most people in the U.S. saw unequal. Because my experience each other in just two colors: with race is not like everyone black and white. Since my family else’s, it’s important that I share is mixed race and I thought In my family and my Bahá’í these stories with my friends and my skin looked more like milk community, race didn’t come family and listen to their stories as chocolate, I didn’t like being with so many expectations. I well. Experiences with racism and called black. As a black girl, I was part of a small group of black, prejudice are very personal, so we was less likely to read positive white, and Asian friends who should try to listen to each other’s stories about people who looked prayed and studied the Bahá’í stories with an open heart. like me. I was also more likely writings together. We learned Some people have such deep to be followed around in stores. that “the diversity in the human pain from facing discrimination When I got good grades, I was family should be the cause of love in their lives that they have lost told, “You’re just trying to be and harmony, as it is in music hope that we can all be treated white!” My first experiences where many different notes equally. Some think that interracial with prejudice—being judged blend together in the making of marriages like mine just will not or treated meanly by people a perfect chord” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá). work. Others have spent all of their because of their assumptions One of my favorite songs said lives with one race and have too about me—were because of my that even with all of our different much fear to meet people from race. It felt like being black meant skin tones, “one heart, ruby red, another. Sometimes it’s hard to talk not being trustworthy or smart. beats the heart of man.” with people who come from very

2 VO L. 49 NO. 1 Unity in Action How many of these things can you do to help build race unity in your community?

Two Colors % Talk with your friends about racism you’ve experienced or seen.

% Learn a quote that inspires you to work for justice.

% Create artwork that shows the beauty of the human race.

% Invite a diverse group of friends over for dinner.

% Visit a cultural history museum. Share what you learn.

% Read about achievements of people from different races different backgrounds. But Marcin they couldn’t stay quiet about and share them. and I agree that there is no better injustice. Like Branch Rickey, % Say a prayer for unity. way to work toward uniting the a baseball pioneer who was  Consult with elders, friends, races than to build a life together motivated to take action when % and others about ways to with love. he saw a black player from his achieve race unity. Throughout history, progress team crying after being refused a % Watch videos about different toward racial unity has often hotel room because of his race. cultures (such as TEDxKids). been through love. Once people Years later, Rickey hired Jackie % Interview an interracial couple got to know each other, their Robinson as the first black athlete about their marriage. friendships grew so strong that to play in Major League Baseball. % Try a game from another Rickey said, “I may not be able culture. to do something about racism % Write a poem about unity. in every field, but I can sure do % Help at a cultural festival. something about it in baseball.” % Ask if your school can host a Of course, we still have a diversity workshop. long way to go. But we can be % Take an imaginary trip by inspired by those who have learning all you can about helped in this journey. We another country. can also try our very best to make friends of all races and to Andrea Hope is a speak out when we feel or see spoken word artist discrimination. who has performed With our family, friends, poetry and taught Andrea, age 10 (left), celebrates and community, we can workshops in many her uncle’s wedding in New countries around learn more about the diversity Jersey, with her older sisters, the world. She is of the human race and grow Elizabeth and Latricia, and also the author of their mother, Johnetta. in compassion, love, and the poetry activity understanding. book, I Am & I Can.

Images: art by sollia and Lorelyn Medina; portraits by Lindsey Lugsch-Tehle VO L. 49 NO. 1 3

A Brief Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace Timeline Injustice in Constantinople

The Life of ROMANIA Bucharest hat do you do when you see Adrianople UZBEKISTAN Bahá’u’lláh injustice happen in front of you? BULGARIA (Edirne) RUSSIA KAZAKHSTAN GEORGIA Tbilisi

Do you ignore it to keep the peace, AZERBAIJAN The highlighted Ankara ARMENIA TURKMENISTAN W GREECE Baku Constantinople area marks the or do you stand up for what’s right, even Ashgabat Athens TURKEY (Istanbul) Tabríz Diyárbakr time in which this when it’s difficult? Tihrán Mashhad Zanján Irbíl story takes place. Nicosia Mosul Qazvín Bahá’u’lláh and His companions faced CYPRUS SYRIA Karkúk LEBANON Beirut those questions in Constantinople ‘Akká Damascus Kirmánsháh IRAQ PERSIA Amman (now Istanbul, Turkey). The sultán of Alexandria Port Jerusalem (IRAN) ISRAEL Baghdád EGYPT Cairo Said JORDAN the Ottoman Empire exiled Him from KUWAIT Shíráz Kuwait City 1817 November 12 Baghdád to Constantinople in 1863. Throughout His lifetime, Bahá’u’lláh’s exiles from Birth of Bahá’u’lláh in Tihrán, Iran Though Bahá’u’lláh was innocent, His home in Tihrán, Persia (now Iran) covered about QATAR Doha Abu Riyadh Medina Dhabi Muscat Persian officials who wanted Him sent 3,000 miles (4,828 km). SAUDI UNITED ARAB 1844 EMIRATES ARABIA Recognizes the Báb as farther away convinced the sultán to Mecca OMAN a new Messenger of God banish Him. rumors about Bahá’u’lláh and His Bahá’u’lláh and His companions followers. His lies eventually reached the 1852 SUDAN Imprisonment in the traveled for 110 days through summer sultán. WithoutKhartoum investigating the matter “Black Pit” of Tihrán Sanaa YEMEN heat with little food and water because of for himself, the sultán ordered Bahá’u’lláh 1853–1863 a famine in the area. Bahá’u’lláh’s eldest to leave Constantinople less than four Exile in Baghdád, Iraq. From 1854–1856, He son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, was 19 years old. He months after He’d arrived. goes into the mountains Addis Ababa helped to obtain food when it was scarce SOUTHThe order was unjust, and Bahá’u’lláhSOMALIA to pray in solitude. and worked tirelessly to make the refused.SUDAN Neither HeETHIOPIA nor His companions 1863 April journey easier for everyone. had done anything wrong. “Our inno- Declares Divine Mission When Bahá’u’lláh arrived in cence is manifestly evident, and they as Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith Constantinople, officials assumed that have no alternative but to declare their He would ask for money or political injustice,” He said.** He encouraged His 1863–1868 Exile in Constantinople favors to gain support for His faith. They companions to stand firm. (Istanbul), then Adrianople visited Him, expecting that He would But a few of those with Him were (Edirne), Turkey. Begins writing letters to kings want to start a relationship with them. frightened and began plotting to save and rulers in 1867, But Bahá’u’lláh was not interested in such themselves. Bahá’u’lláh saw that discord urging world unity schemes. “I have no wish to ask favor was brewing among His community and 1868 from them,” He said. “My work is not of decided to accept the banishment rather Last exile, to prison- their world; it is of another realm, far than allow their unity to be destroyed. city of ‘Akká, Israel removed from their province. Why, However, He wrote the sultán a long 1877 therefore, should I seek these people?”* tablet explaining the injustice of his order. Finally free to live in countryside homes Bahá’u’lláh’s response surprised most He also wrote to the Persian ambassador of Mazra‘ih and then officials. They had never met a man who had started the rumors about Him, Bahjí, outside ‘Akká 1892 May 29 of influence with such little interest in telling him that His Cause “transcends 1892Bahá’u’lláh May 29 passes deal-making. Bahá’u’lláh’s attitude any and every plan ye devise . . . Were all away at Bahjí. Bahá’u’lláh passes bothered the Persian ambassador to the governments on earth to unite and away at Bahjí. Constantinople, and he began to spread take My life and the lives of all who bear

*This quote is from the spoken reflections of Bahá’u’lláh’s daughter, 4 VO L. 49 NO. 1 Bahíyyih Khánum, and may not be His exact words.

“The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh this Name, this Divine Fire would never be quenched.” On December 1, 1863, Bahá’u’lláh began the treacherous winter journey from Constantinople to Adrianople (now Edirne, Turkey). He traveled with His family and a small group of friends. He told the rest of His companions to return to their homelands to share His faith with others. Though the authorities attempted to put out the flame of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings, its light continued to spread throughout the world. Today, the Bahá’í Faith has over five million followers and has Bahá’u’lláh lived in this home for one year during His exile in reached every country on the planet. Adrianople.

Find 18 words related to the story. Look up, down, backward, forward, and diagonally. ADMIRE Z N R W Q S R E F G J T S D Y COMMUNITY B G J L F J D R R D P J F I T COMPANIONS D E Y S F L I N L I D O E S I DISCORD DIVINE S F F N L E A G E R M C R C N EXILE S N O I N A P M O C I D P O U FIRM R U O D K K N T E T S E A R M FLAME M A S W T I E E S A A N V D M FRIENDS E X I L E L N U L C Q H A L O INJUSTICE INNOCENCE E I T T B R J D E M L A E R C JOURNEY N Y B A R N Y E N R U O J Y T KINDNESS I M T W I N N O C E N C E L S LIGHT V S U I M S K D I O S Y G I M PEACE REALM I T E O N F W M I F E S R G R TABLET D I P B Z U W B W H Z Y T H I TRANSCENDS I G E I A T Z E B K G W O T F

**This quote was reported by a Bahá’í and may not be Bahá’u’lláh’s exact words. VO L. 49 NO. 1 5 How Welcoming Are You?

“The world of humanity . . . is like a garden, and humankind are like the many-colored flowers.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

ave you ever moved to another town or started going as a reason to stay away. But the Bahá’í Faith celebrates to a new school? It’s not easy being the new kid and diversity. Like the flowers in a garden, diversity makes H trying to make friends. What a relief when someone our world beautiful and interesting. starts talking to you or invites you to join their game. Being inclusive, or welcoming, shows people that Being the new kid may only last a short time, but other you respect them and appreciate the things that make differences — such as skin color, ethnicity, or religion — are them unique. What are your favorite ways to connect part of who a person is. Some people see such differences with others?

Are you a welcoming person? Circle your answers, then add up your points.

1  I try to make friends with people 4  I encourage friends to welcome from diverse cultures. diverse kids into our group. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

2  In a group project, I listen 5  I avoid making assumptions about carefully to everyone’s ideas. people based on their looks. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

3 I’m patient and friendly with 6 If a classmate looks lonely, I go new people. over and talk to them. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1

7 I learn about diverse people and 10 I invite kids who are different world cultures. from me to hang out at my Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 house. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 8  I try to stand up for kids who are bullied for being different. 11  I speak up if I hear an insult or Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 joke about a race or group. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 9 When I meet a new person, I smile, say hello, and learn 12 I try to set a good example by something about them, if possible. speaking kindly to everyone. Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 Often = 3 • Sometimes = 2 • Rarely = 1 My Score

36–28 points: You’re a world citizen 27–20 points: You’re connecting with 19–12 points: It takes courage to who is wise in the ways of making people others and building unity. To polish your reach out to others. For more practice, feel welcome. Way to go! skills, try another tip from the quiz. try some tips from the quiz.

6 VO L. 49 NO. 1 SHEEP SMARTS “The sheep, black and white, associate without discord . . . Therefore, in the world of humanity it is wise and seemly that all the individual members should manifest unity and affinity.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

f someone calls another person a sheep, it means navigate a maze, and develop friendships. they consider that person to be meek, easily led, There’s another way sheep are smart—black, I or even unimaginative. Maybe not so smart. But brown, and white sheep all mingle in unity. Their that’s a stereotype —an unfair generalization. wool is colored by melanin, the same stuff that colors Sheep do move together in large flocks, but it’s human skin, hair, and eyes. But unlike humans, who actually clever; they unite to avoid predators. They’re can be unfair to those who look different, sheep safer when they stick together. Scientists say sheep don’t let pigment cause a problem. And that’s pretty are so bright that they can recognize individual faces, perceptive!

In this fun field, discover nine sheep with stand-out style.

Collaborative Creative Ichabod Kind Listening Mindful Open-Minded Thoughtful Trustworthy Collin Clyde Integrity Katie Laverne Myrtle Orphus Thera Toto

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VO L. 49 NO. 1 7 Make a Hoop for Humanity

“Bahá’u’lláh has drawn the circle of unity, He has made a design for the uniting of all the peoples, — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and for the gathering of them all under the shelter of the tent of universal unity.”

medicine‌ wheel is a sacred American Indian wheel create four equal sections in four different colors. symbol‌ used for health and healing. It’s created In some tribes, the colors stand for diverse races or A in the shape of a circle—an ancient and universal ethnic groups, showing that all people are interconnected and equally important. sign that represents completeness. The wheel can inspire Make your own hoop for humanity inspired by the people to live more balanced, harmonious lives. American Indian tribes have different interpretations medicine wheel. Hang it in your home to promote unity and to express your appreciation for our diverse of the wheel. It may be made as a sculpture, painting, or human family. other work of art. Intersecting lines at the center of the

My craft represents race unity! You'll Need • 4 ¾" (12.1 cm) bowl • and 3 ¾" (9.5 cm) tacky glue cup (or other round • yarn (black, red, items) yellow, and white) • pencil • beads • 6" (15.2 cm) square • one 5" (12.7 cm) corrugated cardboard and four 8" (20.3 cm) • scissors pieces of thin string or cord for stringing • ruler beads • two craft sticks • craft feathers

2 Place cup in center 1 Place bowl on cardboard. Trace around it with of cardboard circle. pencil and cut out circle. Trace around it with pencil and carefully cut out inner circle to make a hoop.

3 Lightly glue ends of one craft stick so it’s horizontal in center of hoop.

8 VO L. 49 NO. 1 4 Lightly glue ends and center of other craft stick to center of hoop so it’s vertical, forming a plus 8 Repeat steps 5–7 with a different sign. Press stick ends to yarn color for each hoop section. hoop and let dry.

5 Glue end of red yarn against edge of a stick, where sticks intersect.

6 Wind yarn snugly and evenly around stick and stop at hoop.

9 Re-glue stick ends to yarn on hoop. At top of hoop, thread smaller cord under a loop of wound yarn and knot its ends together, to make a loop for 7  A. Unglue end of this stick where it touches hoop to continue winding yarn around the hanging. hoop. Wrapped yarn should span the width of this stick and stop at first edge of next stick. 10 Knot ends of other cords—each to a different loop of wound yarn—along perimeter of hoop. Add decorative beads and feathers to these cords and secure with knots  B. Cut and glue or glue. Trim ends yarn’s end to of cords. Now it’s wrapped yarn ready to hang! or hoop. Avoid gluing yarn to stick.

VO L. 49 NO. 1 9 UPROOTING RACISM “We must endeavor to free the soil of the hearts from useless weeds and sanctify it from the thorns of worthless thoughts . . .” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá ike weeds that are hard to eliminate, the roots of who are different from us. Watch for assumptions L racism grow deep in our society. Though laws can about people based on how they look. Listen to every- protect people, some groups still don’t have fair opportunities one’s thoughts with respect. Be alert to the negative for jobs, education, housing, healthcare, and more. And ways that minorities are often portrayed in the media. just as weeds can damage a garden, unfairness stops Find out more about injustice and share what you learn. everyone from growing to their full capacity. Picture our human family as a garden of flowers We all need to dig deep within ourselves and root in every color. Keep pulling those weeds of racism, out prejudice. We can start by being friendly to people patiently and persistently, until every last one is gone.

In this community garden, find nine items that will help to uproot racism.

BRAVE CARING GENTLE HUMBLE PATIENT RAKE OF SINCERE TACTFUL WISE BASKET CART GLOVES HOE PRUNERS RESPECT SHOVEL TROWEL WATERING CAN

10 VO L. 49 NO. 1 ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

“All the members of this endless universe are linked one to another.” —Bahá’í Writings

EARTH-SAVING TIP WOW, REALLY?

StrAWFUL Situation Antarctica is about the Our beaches and oceans size of the U.S. and are overflowing with Mexico combined, plastic pollution, including but it’s 98% ice millions of straws. About — almost three 500 million straws are OUR CONNECTIONS used every day in the miles (4.8 km) Fossil evidence shows that U.S. alone. Skip the deep in some modern humans, Homo straw when you can. places! sapiens, began in Africa about 300,000 years ago. PROTECTING OUR PLANET Looking for water, food, or adventure, we left Africa in waves of migration Dr. Dawn Wright, also known as about 80,000 years ago. We traveled to Asia, “Deepsea Dawn,” is an award-winning then Indonesia, Australia, and Europe. About scientist from California, U.S. She studies 15,000 years ago, we went to North and the ocean’s volcanic mountain ranges and South America. Maori people sailed to New ecosystems and makes 3-D maps of the Zealand only 1,000 years ago. Where will ocean floor. She wants to “understand humanity explore next? Mars? how that part of the Earth works, and hopefully how we can better protect it.”

WHERE IN THE WORLD? AMAZING ANIMALS

This desert reptile changes to a paler color to reflect afternoon heat. It can even tolerate temperatures up to 115°F (46°C)! A male will take this push-up posture to protect

Joshua Tree National Park is named for a rare, tree-like succulent its territory. Fill that can grow as tall as 40 feet (12 m) and live 150 years. in the blanks to Only found in this area, mostly in the Mojave Desert, it’s find its name: threatened by reduced rainfall due to climate change. Unscramble the letters to find the location: _ E _ ERT NIACAFILRO _ GUA _ A

Images: MarsGlobe rover by skegbydave, by NASA, Antarctica Antarctica by by goinyk, goinyk, Dr. Dr. WrightWright byby Esri,Esri, VO L.. 49 NO. 1 Joshua treeTree andand reptilereptile byby AmethelAmethel Parel-SewellParel-Sewell 11 RILEY’S RAINFOREST

“Send down . . . from the clouds of Thy mercy the rains of Thy healing . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

Explore & Soar: Battle Your Biases

ere are some ways to help Hour brains see people as Our Unfair Brains individuals and resist forming s your brain prejudiced? Do Research shows that we tend prejudices. you sometimes form unfair to think more positively about Develop real opinions without facts or others when we share things in % I friendships with experience? Unfortunately, the common (even minor things, like people from answer is probably yes. favorite sports teams, but also the different races In order to work well and same racial group). A test from and cultures. learn quickly, our brains Harvard University has people categorize information. If you quickly link positive or negative % Read books with try a leafy green vegetable that’s words with white or black faces. characters from bitter, your brain may categorize About 70% of test takers react diverse backgrounds. all leafy greens as gross, and warn more positively to people from % Focus on specific things about you not to eat more of them. That their own race. people’s personalities, not just generalization is a bias. Battling biases is tricky. their race. Generalizing helps us avoid Try to notice when your brain LISTEN dangers like fast-moving cars or starts generalizing. Remember % Think critically about messages growling dogs. But if your brain that people don’t represent you receive about race from your creates a bias against people of their entire race or culture— family, friends, and the media. another race, due to messages each one is a unique % Learn more about from the media or other people, person. When we the history of racial that’s prejudice. It can lead to know how our brains groups in your racial discrimination—treating form biases, we can country and how it others unfairly due to their work to stop our affects life today. ethnicity. unconscious prejudices. % Join or form a club Curiosity Canopy to explore how to work for racial justice. ven babies can have bias! In one study, Caucasian Ebabies at nine months old were quicker to respond % Learn about real individuals from to white faces. It also took them longer to recognize diverse cultures, and keep them in mind when you hear someone emotional expressions from faces of other races. Our using stereotypes to describe brains generalize early, so challenging bias when you’re people. young is really important.

12 VO L. 49 NO. 1 Respectful Remedies

“The body of the human world is sick. Its remedy and healing will be the oneness of the kingdom of humanity.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

here are you really from? What race are when they are heard often. you? Do you even speak English? Your immune system battles harmful bacteria in W These may not seem like obvious insults, your body. In life, you can fight microaggressions by but they can be hurtful. Questions like these are subtle zooming in on the oneness of humanity and respecting

put-downs called microaggressions. They imply that a those who are different from you. See each person as person isn’t welcome or doesn’t fit in. Like microscopic a unique individual as well as a member of a race bacteria that are invisible to the eye but still make you or ethnic group. You can stop invisible insults from sick, microaggressions can be powerful—especially sneaking into your conversations. Find words to complete these tips about stopping microaggressions.

IDEAS 1 Remember to focus on treating everyone with ______. CULTURE 2 If a friend says you’re being prejudiced, ______and learn.

OPEN FRIENDS 3 A person’s ______doesn’t determine their interests or talents. N LISTE 4 Get to know about and accept different styles of ______. COMMUNICATION LOOK 5 Help people from diverse backgrounds to feel ______.

6 ______for books and movies with characters

SPEAK that are very different from yourself. L AWARE

U 7 Don’t ask one person to ______for their F D

SPEAKN I whole race or ethnic group.

M LOOK 8 Make ______with people from diverse groups. E M O C EL 9 Try to become ______of your own W KINDNESS unconscious prejudices by reflecting on your actions.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VO L. 49 NO. 1 13 LIGHTNING & LUNA Captive of Illusion BA XTER AND BRIDGET #5674

In Elka Ego’s Mansion of Mirrors . . . Too bad her followers can’t hear Colin, can you send this out on Luna, they’re The real Elka You’re how selfish and mean she's being! Elka’s satellite transmitter? illusions — and her minions losers! Everyone needs to hear it! holograms! can’t be far. I’m on it!

i can make bro! people you’re a buy genius! anything! zAAAPPPPP! i have 130 million followers. do you? Worthless!

on the roof . . . Got it! i’ll now Elka’s coming My pathetic The game is still We’ll unplug the through on my phone. followers game feed and attach going. It must this deserve be using the dish replace it with what they’re Elka’s rant. to the over there. dish­— getting!

you connect the other end to the pod.

Meanwhile, around the world. . . back at Elka's lair . . . It was so simple it’s acid! go invisibilE— to fool everyone! Keep transmitting! ...Go broke playing a with my meaningless game... APP I can Gotcha, The control 83,267,105 control ELKA’S FOLLOWERS room—come on! bro! you so easily. 120,765,123 ELKA’S FOLLOWERS

14 VO L. 49 NO. 1

you can't 30,164,554 Boss! they’re where did stop me! We trusted you! You betrayed us! broadcasting you The game is the girl i'm elka Elka is a liar! to the world! go?! over, Elka! ego! You’re not worth following! You’ve been deceiving us! 68,387,441 ELKA’S FOLLOWERS

where are all my fans?

lightning! fry the control panels!

16,102,004 P! That ugly woman isn’t me! AAPPPP ELKA’S FOLLOWERS zA I’m beautiful. I have to be. kkk! CRACC it isn’t the real you. Who’s the real you inside, Elka?

NOOOO!!!

Luna, backup from HQ is here!

after elka’s arrest . . . My empire, money, power, Thanks, anytime! we make followers . . . gone. I’ll 11,001 guys! a great team! never be happy . . . ELKA’S FOLLOWERS ironic — she had millions You don’t need followers to of followers, but they be happy. You need friends­— actually controlled her. REAL friends in real life!

When they left, she true friends fell apart. are the best!

Get the free Lightning & Luna app for the iPad to see every episode! VO L. 49 NO. 1 15 Mei A. Age: 14

I live in: Virginia, U.S.

I want to be: NT Fashion designer or I some type of business DS A manager RA This career interests me It’s important to have because: friends from different S I love being creative cultures because: R and taking You’ll develop an responsibility appreciation for all the diversity in the world. A Virtue I admire most: T When I feel sad about Loyalty, trustworthiness disunity or injustice, I: Consult with many Hobbies or sports: adult role models and Getting to know kids who shine Music, playing piano, my close friends who photography understand . . . Connect with kids around the world! Favorite Bahá’í activities: If I could invent an ice cream How are they like you? How are they Junior youth group and flavor to encourage unity: holy day celebrations different? Each of us has a unique I would call it Multi A hero or role model: Mix, and it would be story to tell. What’s yours? My parents and other vanilla and chocolate women in my life who swirled with different are close types of berries.

Sophia B. Age: 11 Place I’d love to visit: A hero or role model: Japan Grandma Dolores I live in: New York, U.S. All people are one human To stop prejudice and Virtue I admire most: family means: racism, kids can: Friendliness Lead by example. We We all come from God. Hobbies or sports: may have different What I appreciate most about Tennis, swimming, art backgrounds . . . but my cultural background is: we are all limbs of the Favorite Bahá’í activity: Garrett H. I like being Polish same tree. Community service because I can celebrate Age: 13 When I feel sad about I like to help people by: Christmas with my I live in: Washington, U.S. disunity or injustice, I: Comforting them grandparents. I like being Canadian because I want to be: Remember Bahá’u’lláh A hero or role model: I have family in Canada, A pediatrician, so I said that all war and My mom and I can celebrate Jewish can serve humanity injustice will end. My To stop prejudice holidays with my cousins. and have the flexibility faith gives me strength. and racism, kids can: to work anywhere in All people are one human Make friends with the world. family means: different kinds of Virtue I admire most: That . . . we are all people and set a good Kindness equal, and the building example for others blocks of world unity Favorite Bahá’í activity: start with family unity. When I feel sad about Junior youth classes disunity or injustice, what What I appreciate most about helps me stay hopeful is: Place I’d love to visit: my cultural background is: Knowing that people are The Bahá’í House of [It is] mixed . . . So I get always trying to help Worship in . . . Chile to learn about all make it better Favorite animal or pet: different cultures from My dog, Bailey my family members. 16 VO L. 49 NO. 1

Anya S. “God has crowned you with honor and Age: 13 To stop prejudice and racism, kids can: in your hearts has He set a radiant star; I live in: Colorado, U.S. We can first start by verily the light thereof shall brighten I want to be: using words that are — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Undecided, but I do kind, instead of hurtful the whole world!” have an interest in ones that others find teaching, arts, and rude and inappropriate. sciences. Paziano P. What I appreciate most about Age: 10 This career interests my cultural background is: me because: I’m beautiful because I live in: California, U.S. I love . . . kids . . . I’m different. I want to be: Virtue I admire most: If I could invent an ice cream Writer, a marine biologist, Respect flavor to encourage unity: and an astronomer Favorite Bahá’í activity: I would name it Colors of This career interests the Earth. It would taste Teaching children’s me because: classes colorful, sweet, spicy, I enjoy writing books tangy, etc. When I was bullied A hero or role model: and stories. Marine life or excluded, I: My dad fascinates me, and I Handled it by ignoring love . . . space. When I was bullied or the bully and talking to Virtue I admire most: excluded, I: my parents for support. Told my parents . . . and KINDNESS! Because To stop prejudice and they helped me by having it’s the foundation racism, kids can: meetings with my advisor and the key to peace! Judge people by their at school, and dealing I gave a TEDx talk soul, not by their with the kids who made about kindness!* appearance. Actions fun of my ethnicity. Favorite Bahá’í activities: speak louder than looks! Being helpful with my When I feel sad about family, Sunday classes, disunity or injustice, I: Leo B. . . . and Virtues Camp. Talk to my family . . . I Age: 10 Favorite Bahá’í activities: Places I’d love to visit: think about all the happy Holy day celebrations, Philippines (where things on earth. I live in: Nineteen Day Feasts** Mama was born) North Carolina, U.S. What I appreciate most about What I appreciate most about and London my cultural background is: I want to be: A chef my cultural background is: A hero or role model: I looove the food! . . . This career interests me Lebanese food from my My parents and my I like how I’m different because: Lebanese background brother, Kai from the crowd. I like different kinds If I could invent an ice of food. cream flavor to encourage Virtue I admire most: unity, it would be: How to be a Radiant Star: 1. If you’re age 7-14, go to www.brilliantstarmagazine. Happiness/joyfulness Friendship Swirl — 1. If you’re age 7-14, go to www.brilliantstarmagazine.org. chocolate chip cookie org and choose “Explore,” then “Bahá’ís & Friends in A hero or role model: FromAction,” the thentop menu, “Radiant choose Stars.” “Discover.” Click “Apply Then clickNow” “Become and My mom and dad dough with mango a Radiant Star or Trailblazer,” and fill out the form. Or swirled with mint . . . fill out the form. Or e-mail us at [email protected]. To stop prejudice and e-mailInclude us your at [email protected]. name, age, birth date, Include mailing your address,name, age, with whipped cream birth date, mailing address, and phone number. racism, kids can: and gummy bears and and phone number. Include all to play a cherry on top!!! 2. When When it’s it’s youryour turnturn toto shine,shine, we’ll send youyou questionsquestions together, ask those who and a form for you and your parents to sign. may be saying/doing and a form for you and your parents to sign. something unkind to 3. Answer Answer the the questions questions and and send send them them to to us us with with another person to stop . . . thethe signed signed form, form, along along with with at at least least two two good- good- quality, close-up photographs of your smiling When I feel sad about quality, close-up photographs of your smiling disunity or injustice, what face.face. Photos Photos should should be be in in sharp sharp focus focus and and show show helps me stay hopeful is: youryour eyes eyes clearly. clearly. Please Please don’t don’t send send color color copies, copies, Finding ways to serve low-resolutionlow-resolution digital digital images, images, or or copyright- copyright- my community protectedprotected images images (like (like school school portraits). portraits).

*Paziano’s TEDx talk: https://youtu.be/AUlehTS_ezQ VO L. 49 NO. 1 **Feast is a Bahá’í community gathering with prayers, consultation, and fellowship. 17

Salena V. Nora L. Age: 11 All people are one human Age: 8 family means: I live in: California, U.S. I live in: Virginia, U.S. We are all connected, I want to be: Doctor humanity is one. I want to be: A veterinarian This career interests me When I feel sad about because: disunity or injustice, I: This career interests me I want to help people Personally try to because: I love . . . animals. when they are sick or actively work towards To stop prejudice injured. improving unity and Favorite Bahá’í activity: and racism, kids can: Virtue I admire most: justice in my area. Children’s class, espe- Make friends with kids Confidence If I could invent an ice cream cially arts and crafts from other cultures. Favorite Bahá’í activities: flavor to encourage unity: A hero or role model: When I feel sad about Feast and children’s It would be . . . Creamy My family disunity or injustice, what Kindness. It would taste class When I was excluded: helps me stay hopeful is: like caramel, and after I was in a [class] where Saying prayers Place I’d love to visit: India eating it you would kids spoke little English. All people are one human To stop prejudice and feel like being kind to But one boy had learned family means: racism, kids can: everybody. some English from TV, Everybody is created Encourage kids and and we became friends. from the same God. youth to love all, and to make sure they It’s important to have If I could invent an ice never exclude anybody friends from different cream flavor to encourage because of a person’s cultures because: unity, it would be: race or color. It’s one small step Chocolate vanilla toward world unity. strawberry mango swirl A hero or role model: My parents

Christopher R. Beata R. Age: 8 I like to help people by: Age: 9 Encouraging them and I live in: Montana, U.S. making friends I live in: Michigan, U.S. I want to be: To stop prejudice and I want to be: Artist I don’t know racism, kids can: This career interests me Virtue I admire most: Stand up for somebody because: Kindness who is being treated I love the feeling of Favorite Bahá’í activity: wrong creating. It’s important to have Ayyám-i-Há* When I feel sad about Favorite Bahá’í activity: friends from different Hobbies or sports: disunity or injustice, what Children’s classes cultures because: helps me stay hopeful is: Learning about other Backpacking, hanging A hero or role model: out with friends, soccer My friends people will someday Dad eliminate prejudice Favorite animal or pet: What I appreciate most about my cultural When I [am] bullied or and racism. White tigers, clouded excluded [for my religion]: leopards, and dogs background is: What I appreciate most about I think everyone I explain how all my cultural background is: Favorite food: would say — friends religions are one. If I am part Native Sushi and family! that does not work, I American and I just walk away. If I could invent an ice cream appreciate communion flavor to encourage unity: Virtue I admire most: with nature most. I would call it Unity ice Truthfulness To stop prejudice and cream. It would taste When I feel sad about racism, kids can: like when you give disunity or injustice, I: Try to make friends somebody flowers or Pet my dog. Animals who look different from candy or a hug and they always make me ourselves. We are all really appreciate it. feel hopeful. the same inside.

18 VO L. 49 NO. 1 *Ayyám-i-Há is a festival of hospitality, charity, gift giving, and preparing for the Bahá’í Fast. ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? do Say ? ? ? What You? ? ? ? “Associate in perfect love and accord and consider humankind as one family . . .” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá t’s hard to know what to do when you hear something situation feels safe, stay calm and express your opinion Ithat sounds like prejudice or racism. It takes courage about fairness. If you’re silent, the person may think you to speak up about injustice. You may feel uncomfortable. agree with them. You might wonder if the other person will have an open When enough people point out racism, in time, mind and listen to you or if they’ll get upset. You might attitudes will change. What do you say when someone feel so angry or hurt that you just want to leave. But if the sounds prejudiced?

i don’t think They belong here. They should go back home. They have a right What? They’re humans and to be here, just or they come from Earth, like we do. just like you and me!

write what you would say:

Did you hear the joke about immigrants from . . . Wait, if you’re I don’t think it’s funny going to tell a or at all to joke about joke that’s racist, people’s cultures. please don’t.

write what you would say:

It takes courage I think it’s cool! Why can’t they just speak English? They live in the U.s. to move to another There are thousands country, and it or of languages in the Salám. Cheh-towrí? takes time to learn world. I’d love to Khúbam, tow a new language. know more than one. cheh-towrí?* write what you would say:

*Persian translation: “Hi. How are you?” “I am good. How are you?” VO L. 49 NO. 1 19 All people are part of one amazing species.

“The world of humanity is one race, the surface of the earth one place of residence . . .” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá DOES RACE EXIST? n biology, we learned about how scientists Scientists say that “race” is a social idea. classify species. For example, Canis lupis, the Sadly, it’s used as a reason to treat people unfairly Iwolf, is a different species than Canis latrans, due to their ethnic or cultural background. the coyote. Canis lupis familiaris, the domestic dog, Throughout history, racism has harmed some is a subspecies of the wolf. groups and given privileges to others. It’s caused But guess what? Humans, Homo sapiens, have injustice, violence, and war. no subspecies. Variations in the way people look, I’m going to spread the word that to have such as skin color, are adaptations to where we live. peace and justice in the world, we need to listen But these differences aren’t enough to separate us. to science: on Earth, we’re one human family, and Every person on Earth is the same species. we need to act like it!

HUMAN SPECIES Check out my quiz about the human species.

1. Biologically, humanity is 5. Even with global migration, 9. There are no genes that one species. people have never been separated separate people into one TRUE • FALSE long enough to evolve into race or another. different subspecies. TRUE • FALSE 2. The idea of race has been TRUE • FALSE used to justify inequality and 10. Genes for skin or hair color injustice, such as slavery. 6. “Race” is an ancient concept, have no relation to charac- TRUE • FALSE and the word has always been teristics such as kindness, a part of the English language. responsibility, or creativity. 3. Modern humans evolved in TRUE • FALSE TRUE • FALSE Africa about 300,000 years ago. TRUE • FALSE 7. The concept of using race to 11. The continent with the divide people socially has greatest amount of variation 4. Melanin, the skin’s brown pigment, developed in the last 500 years. in human genes is Australia. protects us from damaging TRUE • FALSE TRUE • FALSE ultraviolet rays. So people have darker skin if their ancestors 8. Humans are the most 12. It’s impossible for people to are from tropical areas. genetically similar primates. Our change racist ideas or behavior. TRUE • FALSE DNA is 99.9% alike. TRUE • FALSE TRUE • FALSE

20 VO L. 49 NO. 1 ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 Monster CommUNITY “Love and affinity are the fruits of a gentle disposition, a pure nature and praiseworthy character, while discord and isolation are characteristic of the fierce beasts of the wild.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

all or short, big or little, bald or shaggy—our that creeps into our lives, even if we try our best to human family is wonderfully diverse. But it’s fight it off. T scary to realize that some people don’t value With courage and determination, we can all help our differences. They may act like monsters, attacking battle the demon of racism. It’s important to talk about those who look, speak, or act differently. our differences with love and respect, and speak up We’re all part of one human race. But society has when we see injustice. And we can hunt down and set up racial divisions based on people’s skin color tame any monstrous thoughts lurking in our own minds or ethnicity. When someone gets treated unfairly and hearts. If we each do our best, we can create a because of race, that’s racism. It’s a menacing problem world that’s fair and friendly for all.

At this ghoulish gathering, match each monster to the treat that can help tame its negative qualities.

Arrogant Argo Ignorant Iggy Hagy Hurtful

Loving 1 Pog Prejudice Lemonade Trusting 2 Tomatoes

Impatient Igo

Critical Cret Suspicious Sig

Humble 4 Hamburger

Flexible Fudge 3

Eggs of 8 Equality Patient 5 Encouraging Pie Egg Rolls 7

Open-Minded Orange 6 Wise 9 Watermelon

Stubborn Stubzo Superior Sul

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VO L. 49 NO. 1 21 Tod Ewing

ow would you feel if no matter where you went—school, the grocery store, a ball game—nobody was the same race Has you? That’s what life was like for Tod Ewing until he “ was 10. Born in Minnesota, U.S., his was the only African American “ family in their town. They faced so much prejudice that neighbors even tried to stop them from moving into the neighborhood. Tod’s parents were Bahá’ís, and in spite of these challenges, they stayed strong, and they inspired Tod to work for racial justice. GAZER Tod earned a degree in criminal justice at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. Later, he and his wife, Alison, moved their family to a more diverse area in South Carolina. In 1987, Tod and two friends launched a diversity training company, which helped organizations build unity among people of different races. Twenty years later, he co-created the Race Story ReWrite Project with Phyllis and

STAR Gene Unterschuetz. They empower people to form strong interracial relationships. Tod and Alison now live in Washington, D.C.

Q: What is your favorite childhood memory? A: We used to have this golden retriever. It was a beautiful dog, and we lived out in the country. And this dog would just run off . . . Sometimes at night, my dad and myself and my brother and sister would go lay on this hill, Left: Tod was about nine when he was in fourth grade in Minnesota. Right: At about and my dad . . . would whistle. age 17, Tod attended a Bahá’í conference with his mom, Mildred. And we would . . . look all over the place and wonder where Duchess would come running Q: What was the most challenging experience for you when you from . . . [She] was such a were a kid, and how did you handle it? fun-loving dog . . . A:  We were the only black family for 15 miles in any direction . . . It was traumatic . . . to not feel emotionally safe anywhere . . . What helped Q: How would you define racism? me cope . . . [was being] able to find a few friends. A: Disliking somebody, prejudging somebody because of their color, Q: What virtues are important in the work you do? and then having the power to A:  Being just and fair-minded . . . Being open enough and humble make their life very difficult. enough to listen . . . Courage to speak your mind and tell the truth . . .

22 VO L. 49 NO. 1 Portrait by Sara Moore Questions and

Answers with an Inspirational Bahá’í ””

Left: Tod, his wife, Alison, and their daughters, Talia (middle) and Angela, in 1983. Talia passed away at age 19. In St. Cloud, Minnesota, the Talia Ewing Youth Service Award is given in her honor each year by the NAACP, an equal rights group. Right: Tod and his Q: When kids face prejudice business partners, Phyllis and Gene Unterschuetz, lead a Race Story ReWrite workshop against their race or religion at a Bahá’í summer school in Florida, U.S., in 2017. and they’re feeling hurt, what should they do? A: They should discuss it with Q: What feeds racism in society? their parents . . . If they are hurt A: People need to feel like they are better than other people . . . Racism is because of something somebody fueled by materialism . . . People wanted status and power, and that’s why says to them . . . they could . . . slavery developed, and race became an excuse later on . . . Now, because forgive the person . . . [Or] you there’s so many stereotypes about people . . . and there’s so many fears may want to help them under- that have been created around people of color . . . that fuels it, too. stand [how] they hurt you. But if it hurts so much, you Q: What are some things that kids can do every day to help stop racism? may not be able to do that. You A: Everybody can pray . . . that there will be racial healing, and . . . [that] may need to go home or have a they have opportunities to do something about racial injustice . . . Go out friend that you talk to until you of your way to talk to people that are different from you . . . Get to know can calm down and some of the them and understand them and understand their life, what you have in pain goes away . . . common, what’s different . . . Read stories about people who are of other That’s where . . . courage races . . . read about how racial prejudice works . . . come[s] in, or . . . humility. . . As children who are Bahá’ís Q: What is important for kids to know about racism in the U.S.? or believe in oneness, [you’ll A: If it isn’t happening to you, [that] doesn’t mean it’s not happening . . . understand that] those people And it’s important to know that people have worked for many, many are your family . . . You want to years to eliminate racial prejudice, [but] it’s still here. And that each of help [them] understand, so they us has a responsibility to address it and to help move things forward . . . don’t do it to other people . . . Try not to see that person as Q: If you had one wish for Brilliant Star’s readers, what would it be? your enemy . . . [they] learned A: [It] would be that everybody sees . . . that they have a role to play in to be prejudiced from somebody eliminating racial prejudice and creating racial unity and justice . . . and . . . Hopefully you can help them that they would . . . be very intentional about deciding what . . . they unlearn that . . . want to do about it.

VO L. 49 NO. 1 23 SHINING LAMP A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance (1929–1991) Dr. Magdalene Carney By Gail Radley

s snow swirled around her while she sat justice with her when she moved to Mississippi in atop her horse, Magdalene “Mag” Carney 1968. She helped share the Faith with thousands A watched her father wrap her legs and feet throughout the South. In those days, most black in burlap. He said this would keep her from and white students went to separate schools. getting frostbite as she went to school from their Some people were so angry that they reacted farm in Tennessee, U.S. Mag, age nine, wasn’t about violently to efforts to end this unfair policy. The to let a blizzard keep her from school. She shook next year, Mag, now head of a Canton, Mississippi, the horse’s reins, and off she went. high school English department, guided the school Mag’s grandfather was born a slave, unable to system peacefully through bringing black and get an education. Her mother and father had little white students together. schooling, but they worked hard and raised their Prejudice—judging people without knowing eight children in the Baptist faith. Mag, the oldest, them—arose from false beliefs, Mag thought. Hearts born in 1929, believed wholeheartedly in God, and minds needed education. Mag taught for years but had questions. Why should there be two in elementary and high schools. She wrote articles churches for blacks and two for whites in their and inspired students to aim high, just as she did. little community if there was only one God? With her doctorate degree in education, which she No one seemed able to answer. earned in 1977, she became Dr. Carney and trained future teachers. Devoted Search Global Service Knowing that with an education, she could help her family out of poverty, Mag graduated from Mag served on the National Spiritual Assembly, college and taught in elementary and high schools the body guiding the Bahá’ís of the United States, in Nashville. One day in church, she seemed to hear from 1970 to 1983. In 1983, she was appointed a a voice telling her that there was more to religion Counselor in the International Teaching Centre than what she had learned so far. and moved to Haifa, Israel, the Bahá’í World Centre. Mag searched for three years. In 1962, a Bahá’í From there, she helped educate Bahá’ís worldwide professor named Dr. Sarah Pereira gave Mag a to build stronger communities. She visited Bahá’ís pamphlet about the Faith. Mag was working in in Africa, Europe, and other areas. the civil rights movement and had longed for a Mag left this world in 1991 at the young age of religion that supported racial equality. “By the 61, while still serving in Haifa. The Universal House time I finished reading,” Mag wrote, “I believed in of Justice, the international Bahá’í governing body, the new system: the Bahá’í Faith. Unimaginable praised her for nearly three decades of “UNBROKEN joy flooded my heart!” SERVICE,” her commitment to education, and her She carried the Bahá’í teachings of unity and “SELFLESS SPIRIT.”

24 VO L. 49 NO. 1 AMP PRIVILEGE: SHINING L An Unfair Game ave you ever tried to use a can opener with your majority, or in groups that hold the most power (such as (1929–1991) left hand? Probably not—if you’re right-handed. white, wealthy males in the U.S.), have the clearest privilege. Dr. Magdalene Carney Most tools are made for right-handed people. But privilege isn’t always obvious to those who have it. If SinceH they rarely have to use their non-dominant hand, you’re right-handed, you may never have noticed that a can right-handed people have some advantages over lefties. opener was made for you. Racial privilege can be even harder That type of advantage is known as privilege. We can to see. Listen to other people’s experiences and keep an open have privilege based on race, gender, religion, education, mind when advantages are pointed out. Then try to use any wealth, physical ability, or other factors. People in the privilege you have to create more justice in our world.

Try these games to see how privilege can change things.

PAPER TOSS PRIVILEGE 4–16 players To play: Players line up in rows and try to toss crumpled pieces of paper into a recycling bin. One row starts six feet from the bin, and other rows are farther away. Each time a kid makes a basket, they take a step closer. The first one to reach the bin wins.

ALPHABET ADVANTAGE 2+ players To play: Players run a race, and everyone starts from the same line. Runners whose first names start with the letters A through L get a three-second head start.

SIBLING SUPERIORITY 3+ players To play: Give each person a piece of paper and tell them to make a star out of it. Only those who have older siblings get to use scissors.

BIRTHDAY BENEFIT 4+ players To play: Split into pairs and give each pair a

water balloon. Kids who have birthdays in July through December have to try to catch their balloon with one hand behind their backs.

VO L. 49 NO. 1 25 A Memorable Meal with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

e must lay aside all prejudice—whether “ it be religious, racial, political or patriotic; we must become the cause Wof the unification of the human race.” When ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke these words in New Jersey, U.S., in 1912, the concept of unity among all races was new. Racial segregation was common. In the South, it was legal to separate schools, buses, parks, and other facilities based on race. During a nine-month tour of the U.S. and Canada, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave public talks to thousands Louis and Louisa Gregory married in 1912, when of people. He shared the Bahá’í teachings about the interracial marriage was uncommon. oneness of humanity and urged his audiences to establish true unity. At his talk to over one thousand people at Howard had not been invited to the luncheon, waited for a University in Washington, D.C., ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, “I chance to slip out quietly. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá led the way am very happy that white and black have gathered to the dining room. According to tradition, the seats together in this meeting. I hope this coming at the table were carefully arranged based on together and harmony reaches such a each person’s position in society. degree that no distinctions shall remain But when everyone was seated, between them, and they shall be together ‘Abdu’l-Bahá suddenly stood up and in the utmost harmony and love.” looked around. He said to Khan, One Bahá’í in the audience that “Where is Mr. Gregory? Bring Mr. Gregory!” day was Louis Gregory, an African Khan immediately went to find American lawyer who was a leader in Louis and brought him in. Meanwhile, efforts to build race unity. Louis said the ‘Abdu’l-Bahá rearranged the place “spiritual atmosphere” during the talk settings that had been so formally laid “raised His hearers to a pitch of joyous out. He put Louis in the place of honor at enthusiasm.” The audience applauded repeatedly his right. Louis was the only African American as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke, and long afterward. person there. By welcoming him warmly and giving Following the talk, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had a chance to him a prominent seat, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá demonstrated put his words into practice. He invited Louis to meet that people of all races should be treated equally. He with him at the home of a Bahá’í named Ali-Kuli said he was happy to have Louis there, and during Khan and his family. Khan, as he was known, a lunch, he spoke about the oneness of humanity. diplomat representing Persia (now Iran), had Louis later wrote that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá “made planned a special luncheon in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s honor. everyone feel perfectly at ease by his genial humor, About 19 guests were invited, and some were wisdom and outpouring of love . . .” He also said leaders in Washington, D.C., society or politics. that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s heart seemed to be “a mysterious After the meeting with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Louis, who and boundless treasury of love.”

Art: Jamesstock, Irinelle, and Alex_Bond 26 VO L. 49 NO. 1 The Hair prohibit We hairstyles thatWear are traditional or popular in ong or short, curly or straight, hair is part of African American communities. our cultural traditions. In some cultures, people Our hairstyles are more than just a fashion grow their hair long, cover their hair, or shave statement. For many cultures, they have specific Lit off completely. Learning how others maintain and meaning. Also, different kinds of hair require different style their hair can help us appreciate our diversity. care. Rules that don’t take that into consideration are But hair is sometimes a focus of discrimination. unfair. When we honor and celebrate the hair we wear, In the past, boarding schools forced American Indian we can break down walls of prejudice and see the kids to cut their hair, going against important spiritual unique beauty in our human family. traditions. Some schools and businesses today even

At a multicultural fair, these kids are sharing their cultural hair traditions. Read the clues, then match each kid with their country. with Jewish law, For special In parts of For native On special days, Orthodox boys Many Muslim Louis and Louisa Gregory married in 1912, when occasions, we In my country my African North American MIAo girls and and men often girls and near peru, people, long women around interracial marriage was uncommon. sometimes wear nation, we women wear grow long hair hair ornaments Tsáchila boys wear ancient hair connects headdresses between our the world called kanzashi. and men use patterned us to nature with our ear and temple. show modesty I like cherry achiote seeds hairstyles. We and symbolizes ancestors’ hair My homeland is by covering blossoms, which for bright red bond and share knowledge. wrapped around sacred to Jews, our hair with bloom in my hair shaped like stories while Traditionally, an animal horn. Christians, a scarf. a seed pod—a country. braiding each we only cut I’m from the I live near symbol of life. Muslims, and 1 other’s hair. hair when we’re world’s most Bahá’ís. 7 India. 2 mourning. 6 3 4 populated 5 nation.

Israel Ecuador Pakistan China Ethiopia Japan U.S.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 VO L. 49 NO. 1 27

What’s your wish for our planet? 1 2 3 To have unity and peas on Earth!

4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 Look for clues throughout the magazine. COSMO’S CORNER

3. Sheep’s wool is colored by ______(p. 7) DOWN 5. It takes ______to speak up about injustice. (p. 19) 7. Like the flowers in a garden, ______makes our world 1. A medicine wheel is a ____ American Indian symbol. (p. 8) ACROSS beautiful and interesting. (p. 6) 2. See each person as a ______individual. (p. 13) 8. Picture our human ______as a garden of flowers in 4. Develop real ______with people from different races every color. (p. 10) and cultures. (p. 12) 9. Anya and Paziano both appreciate being ______. (p. 17) 5. When enough people point out racism, in time, attitudes 12. Mag Carney trained future ______. (p. 24) will ______. (p. 19) 13. Try to use any privilege you have to create more 6. Tod says that everyone has a ______to play in eliminating ______in our world. (p. 25) racial prejudice and creating racial unity and justice. (p. 23) 14. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá put Louis in the place of ______. (p. 26) 10. About 98% of Antarctica is made of ______. (p. 11) 15. ______Tree National Park is named for a rare, 11. Andrea says, throughout history, progress towards racial tree-like succulent. (p. 11) unity has often been through ______. (p. 3) 14. For many cultures, styles of this have specific meaning. (p. 27)

FROM OUR MAILBOX ANSWERS [Brilliant Star] makes me feel happy inside, KEY: T=Top, C=Center, B=Bottom, L=Left, R=Right and it makes me want to be a Bahá’í Page 7: Collaborative Collin at TL, Open- Page 20: 1) True, 2) True, 3) True, 4) True, when I grow up. [If I could choose a Minded Orphus and Kind Katie at TC, 5) True, 6) False: “Race” appeared in English Ichabod Integrity at CL, Trustworthy Toto at in the 1500s. 7) True, 8) True, 9) True, theme] I would choose world unity, C, Creative Clyde, Mindful Myrtle, and Thoughtful 10) True, 11) False: Africa has the greatest because there is too much prejudice Thera at CR, Listening Laverne at BC human variation. 12) False: Education and Page 10: Basket and gloves at TC, pruners empathy can help people overcome racism. in the world and we are very afraid and shovel at CL, cart at C, watering can at Page 21: Clockwise from TL: Arrogant Argo = CR, hoe at BL, trowel at BC, rake at BR 4, Suspicious Sig = 2, Hagy Hurtful = 1, of immigrants in our country. Page 11: California, Desert Iguana Impatient Igo = 5, Ignorant Iggy = 9, Pog Prejudice = 6, Superior Sul = 8, Stubborn Page 13: 1) kindness, 2) listen, 3) culture, Stubzo = 3, Critical Cret = 7 —Layli G., age 10, 4) communication, 5) welcome, 6) Look, Page 27: 1) Japan, 2) Ecuador, 3) Ethiopia, Massachusetts, U.S. 7) speak, 8) friends, 9) aware 4) U.S., 5) China, 6) Israel, 7) Pakistan

28 VO L. 49 NO. 1 aMAZEing ZEKE & RHOMBUS: ADVENTURE JOURNEY TO PEACE “The surface of the earth is one home; humanity is one family and household.” –‘Abdu’l-Bahá ey, Earthlings! Zeke here, with my pet, Rhombus, from you may not even realize it. Some people don’t have any friends H Planet Zilizag. We have a blast zipping through your from a different race or ethnic group. Building those friendships can solar system on our mission to find peaceful planets. help end prejudice forever! Everyone we’ve met on Earth wants to live in peace. Most When you’ve been around the universe like we have, it’s easy to people love and respect their fellow humans, even if they’re from see that all Earthlings are part of one family. If you don’t see diverse different parts of the planet. But we’ve seen injustice and violence, folks in your neighborhood, find them—and reach out with love. We too. Prejudice is like a terrible illness that can infect anyone—and created peace on Zilizag, and we know you can do it on Earth, too!

Find our path through Earth’s solar system, between the asteroids and other objects, then zoom to Zilizag!

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VO L. 49 NO. 1 29 “So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.” —Bahá’u’lláh

Power of Unity • V OL. 49 NO. 1 AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES www.brilliantstarmagazine.org