Unity Day observed at H.V. Griffin Park

Ruth Wendling was singing, and Kati O'Grady was accompanying her on the banjo while folks around them ate fried chicken and tamales, played horseshoes and bocce. The song Ruth was singing summed it all up.

"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.

On the web

www.bahai.org

www.raceunitydaysa.com