Helen Keller (1880–1968) remains one of the most inspiring figures in modern history. Deaf and blind from an early age, she overcame incredible challenges to become a renowned author, activist, and humanitarian. Her story of resilience continues to impact generations worldwide. Early Life and Education Helen Adams Keller was born on June 27, 1880, in…
when I was leader of a boys’ club for underprivileged eight-year-olds, I found that when I observed and complained to authorities about their special needs (health, food, parental inadequacies), I was told that ‘the law says this or that.’ I decided that…lawyers appeared to have the inside edge.” Nelson adds that she wanted to be…
Zhang Xin, a billionaire businesswoman and former CEO of SOHO China, is widely regarded as one of the most influential entrepreneurs in the world. Having built an empire in real estate alongside her husband, Pan Shiyi, she shocked many in 2022 when she stepped down from her leadership role to dedicate herself to her faith,…
Dr. Hoda Mahmoudi is a leading scholar on peace, social justice, and systemic racism. Since 2012, she has held The Bahá’í Chair for World Peace at the University of Maryland, College Park. She collaborates with global experts to advance interdisciplinary research on peace, human rights, and governance. Her work addresses the most pressing challenges facing…
“In the annals of history, few figures shine as brightly and courageously as Táhirih (1817–1852), the Persian poet, scholar, and revolutionary who became a symbol of women’s emancipation in the 19th century. Born in Qazvin, Iran, she challenged traditions and advocated for gender equality. Her fearless actions and eloquent words inspired generations.” Early Life and…
From the vibrant spectacle of the Bud Billiken Parade to the powerful voice of the Chicago Defender, the spirit of Black Chicago resonates deeply. Earlier this month, we explored the parade’s history, touching on the legacies of Robert Sengstacke Abbott, the Defender’s founder, and David Kellum, a later contributor. Now, we delve into the remarkable…
“The Baháʼí Faith and African American History: Creating Racial and Religious Diversity” offers a compelling exploration of the interwoven narratives of African American history and the Baháʼí Faith in the United States. It delves into the Baháʼí community’s long-standing commitment to racial harmony and social justice, tracing its efforts from the early 20th century to…
James Moody was a world-renowned, Grammy award-winning jazz saxophonist and flutist. He contributed music to Baha’i events, including the Second Baha’i World Congress in 1992, even before he formally enrolled in the Baha’i Faith. Born in Georgia and raised in New Jersey, Moody pursued music despite being born with impaired hearing. He honed his saxophone…
Baha’is refer to Abdu’l-Baha as “the perfect exemplar” of how to live as a Baha’i—in large part because of his actions affirming the nobility of every human being. Baha’u’llah, the prophet and founder of the Baha’i Faith, wrote: Abdu’l-Baha traveled to North America in 1912 and spent 239 days in the United States and Canada. While there, he took every possible…
Robert Hayden’s life was a testament to the power of art to transcend adversity. Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1913, Hayden’s childhood was marked by trauma. His parents separated before his birth, and he was raised by foster parents in the vibrant, yet often challenging, neighborhood of Paradise Valley. His home life was fraught with…
