BAHÁ'ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES

OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Baha’is of America mark the 200th Anniversary of the Birth of Baha’u’llah, Founder of the Baha’i Faith

WASHINGTON, D.C. — October 12, 2017 – Across America, members of the Baha’i Faith are preparing to mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, the founder of their faith on October 22, 2017.

Baha’u’llah (1817-1892) was a spiritual teacher who announced in 1863 that he was the founder of a new religion tailored to the needs of what he described as a rapidly evolving global civilization.  His teachings have spread around the world, forming the basis of a process of social transformation and community building which is unique in its global scope and the diversity of participants. Against the backdrop of 19th century Iran, Baha’u’llah promoted global values such as the oneness of humankind, racial equality, interreligious cooperation, the harmony of science and religion, and the equality of women and men.

The bicentenary marks the transformative impact of Baha’u’llah’s teachings on the lives of families, neighborhoods and communities around the country and the world. Celebrations are gearing up in hundreds of localities across the country, and thousands more will take place across the globe.

“Baha’u’llah’s message of world unity,” said Anthony Vance, director of the U.S. Baha’i Office of Public Affairs, “continues to resonate not only with the 5 million Baha’is worldwide, but in the hearts of all who have been inspired and moved by his prescient vision for universal peace.”  

For Baha’is, the bicentenary represents more than a mere event. The commemoration includes a host of grassroots activities all around the country, including artistic displays and performances, service projects, and prayer and devotional programs. Furthermore, the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette, IL is hosting a nine-week series of programs that began in early September and that will address topics including environmental justice, race relations, indigenous peoples, and human rights.

For more information about the bicentenary of the birth of Baha’u’llah, please contact the U.S. Baha’i Office of Public Affairs at 202-833-8990, or visit publicaffairs.bahai.us.