An English translation of an open letter from Brazil's National Spiritual Assembly (the highest elected administrative body of the Baha'is of Brazil) during Mr. Ahmadinejad's recent visit to their country. From Iranpresswatch.org (translation slightly edited for clarity - Ed.).
Open Letter to Mr. AhmadinejadSource: http://www.iranpresswatch.org/post/5327
December 3rd, 2009
Mr. President,
Your visit to Brazil, invited by President Lula, provokes reflection on the relations between the two countries. Both Brazil and Iran have attracted increased attention in the world stage: they are rapidly advancing countries, with enormous geopolitical influence, and populations marked by great diversity. Nothing would be more natural, therefore, than to promote this relationship, by which one could share in best practices and establish ties of cooperation.
In name of the above mentioned similarities, we call your attention to the following point: whereas Brazil has adopted a model of living together in diversity, with policies aimed at promoting participation and respect for human rights, in Iran one finds the arbitrary restriction of such rights in the persecution of minorities, in discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and religious identity.
In Iran, the Bahá'ís (the largest religious minority in the country) face the severe consequences of religious discrimination, having their work licenses denied, as well as their access to education and justice. Their properties and sacred places have been confiscated and destroyed. In the last 30 years, more than 250 Bahá'ís have been executed for their beliefs; since 2005, more than 200 have been arbitrarily imprisoned, intimidated and harrassed – all because they would not deny their faith. Their seven national leaders have been arbitrarily imprisoned for more than 18 months, their defense being constantly impeded.
The government-controlled media offends the Bahá'ís with hundreds of articles, radio and television programmes, web posts and leaflets with speeches of hatred, promoted by clergymen and government officials – whereas Bahá'ís are prohibited from exercising their right to respond to the accusations.
Here in Brazil, the Bahá'ís take part in the construction of democracy and the development of their communities – activities recognized by the Brazilian Government and society. Here, they can practice their faith in freedom and safety, in consonance with the principles of the oneness of humankind, equality of race and gender, promotion of peace and service to humanity.
How, then, can this difference in treatment be justified? Why is it that the Bahá'ís, in most parts of the world, are seen as persons of good will, committed to the advancement of society, without any involvement in partisan politics; while in Iran, where their Faith was born in the nineteenth century, they receive such a degrading treatment?
It is the responsibility of governments to promote the common good, to defend the interests of their citizens and to stimulate human development with justice and dignity. We hope that the dialogue between both Presidents may stimulate reflection on the needs for new policies in Iran that would allow the followers of all religions, including the Bahá'ís, to contribute to the progress of their homeland.
Photo source here.
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