Janet Ruhe-Schoen

Champions of Oneness tells the story of outstanding Bahai teachers during the early years of the twentieth century (1898-1911). Nearly all of them had the fortune of meeting, at one time or another, Abdul-Baha--the son and appointed successor of Bahaullah, the Prophet and Founder of the Bahai Faith. Their meetings with Abdul-Baha would inspire them to teach the Faith of Bahaullah in the United States--an endeavor that often led them to encounter great suffering at the hands of those who resisted change. Racism, sexism, and economic inequality were only a few of the hardships these brave men and women had to suffer. Prominent among them was Louis Gregory, who embodied the suffering and triumphs that African Americans experienced during this time. Author Janet Ruhe-Schoen also highlights a group of outstanding Baha'is who she refers to as Gregory's shining circle--who accompanied him in righting the wrongs of this period. This book is their story--a story of suffering as well as triumph in the face of overwhelming odds. As racial prejudice, gender prejudice, and economic hardship continue to plague the United States, it is hoped that the biographies of these brave men and women will inspire Americans today to champion justice and equality in their daily lives.