(T-G Photo by Mary Reeves)
"V-A-R-I-E-T-Y spices up our day.
When we get together
the world will be a better
place to stay."
The event was the fourth Race Unity Day picnic sponsored by the Baha'i community Saturday at H.V. Griffin Park. The Baha'i faith is based on the premise that "humanity is one single race and that the day has come for its unification in one global society," according to the religion's official web site.
"Race Unity Day is an internationally-recognized holiday," said one of the picnic organizers, Dr. Navid Monajjem. "It's especially important here in Bedford County, considering the racial diversity."
Musicians provided a background for the picnic, which was largely covered dish and offered meals from many different cultures. The music was also diverse, with members of the Baha'i stepping forward and joining occasionally. Spanish songs, bluegrass, country ... the theme they all held in common was unity.
"This is our way to bring people from different backgrounds together in fellowship," said Bill Geissler, another of the event's coordinators. "It celebrates the oneness of mankind. It gives people a chance to get to know one another."
Children played bocce on one side of the picnic pavilion -- black, white, Hispanic, Asian. On the other side, men of different races and cultures came together for a game of horseshoes. Anyone wandering by the pavilion was swept along to the food tables and encourage to eat, enjoy and join in.
"Every year, more and more show up," said Monajjem.
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