[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 130 (Friday, August 1, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1692]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CONDEMNING THE PERSECUTION OF BAHA'IS IN IRAN

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 30, 2008

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, the Baha'i faith emphasizes unity within 
the human race. The Baha'i teachings are built on the values of peace 
and unification.
  Although the history of the Baha'i faith is a turbulent one, they 
have maintained unity within their own faith. Their faith teaches that 
unity manifests a global community that is complete with social and 
economic equality, the elimination of prejudice, education for all, 
collective security and the elimination of extreme poverty and wealth.
  With these values in mind this body should be attentive to the ways 
in which we can bring about the unification of the human race and 
instill world peace. Affirming strong support for religious freedom for 
all people throughout the world and working to ensure this freedom is 
maintained at all times for all people is important. Our religious 
freedom is an inherent right, a human right and must be protected. It 
must be said, however, that the act of condemning is not the best way 
to bring about these important goals.
  In the spirit of honoring the Baha'i faith we should work to bring 
about the peace and unification that ends egregious persecution. The 
United States should engage Iran in high-level diplomatic negotiations. 
Engaging Iran diplomatically honors the spirit of unity that is central 
to the Baha'i faith and brings us closer to peace.

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