There is an article in the New York Times by Nicolas Kristof about the role religion plays in the global oppression of women.  It describes a group of “elders”, retired world leaders who are trying to bring justice to women — these elders include Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Jimmy Carter.  He introduces the idea that although the oppression of women exist around the world in a social context, religion could play a more active role in changing it.

It makes me think about the current injustice in the world, from race to sex, and how hard it is for people to speak up about it — especially religious leaders.  I am also reminded of my own freedom to worship, one that I take for granted.  Tomorrow is the trial date for the seven Iranian Baha’i's, who will most likely face a jury that is neither just nor willing to do what is right.  They have been locked in the notorious Evin prison for 20 months, unable to have contact with their lawyer (Nobel Peace Prize winner Shirin Ebadi), and charged with the ludicrous falsehood of being spies of Israel.  Even more upsetting are the more recent arrests of Baha’i's in Iran, with CNN quoting the prosecutor for Iran’s Public and Revolution Courts as saying “These people were not arrested because they were Baha’is.  In searching their homes, a number of weapons and ammunition were discovered.”

Blatant and baseless lies.  This is just a way of the Iranian government trying to intimidate minorities and strike fear in people.  The Baha’is, like the hundreds of protestors arrested this past summer, are being made examples, the government desperate to maintain its unjust rule and stifle any opposition.

And so what can we do?  As I write this, members of the Montreal Baha’i’ community have gathered to pray for these brave seven Baha’i's tomorrow who face their trial.  And here at home, I am praying.  I try to focus my prayers on positive matters.  I pray for the strength and perseverance of all the Baha’i's and other persecuted people in Iran right now.  I think about their families and I pray for them to keep strong through this time, to keep hope and courage alive.

I pray for their safety, and for all the safety of all Baha’i's in Iran.  I pray for their freedom and for justice.  I pray that those enduring prison are not suffering too greatly.  I pray that soon Baha’i's in Iran will have the same freedoms as their Muslim brothers and sisters, and will be able to attend university, and worship in peace.

And I pray that in the hearts of at least one religious leader in Iran, compassion and understanding will replace ignorance and hatred, and that they will change their anger into love, that they will reflect the attributes of their own Faith, and rule with mercy instead of indignity.  Instead of remaining mute to the injustice, I hope that they stand firm in what is right — whether it is allowing Baha’i's to practice in Iran, or allowing women to attend school in Afghanistan.  They have such a large role to play in our progress as a society.

My heart heavy with anticipation, I pray and I wait.