Race Unity Hui and Speech Awards

The Race Unity Speech Awards were initiated by the New Zealand Bahá’í community in 2001 in support of Race Relations Day (21 March).

The speech topic this year is Speaking for Justice, Working for Unity. More and more New Zealanders are recognising that if we want a harmonious and unified Aotearoa, we all have to speak out and work to address racial prejudice and injustice. But in a world that is becoming increasingly polarised, how do we make sure our efforts create real unity?

At the regional level, the Speech Awards are held in 14 centres across New Zealand, from Whangarei to Dunedin. Bahá’ís are encouraged to support this initiative by attending the regional Speech Awards in their area and taking the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with the students, teachers, parents and others who are present. The regional Speech Awards are held between 8 and 11 April.

At the national level, a Race Unity Hui is run in conjunction with the National Finals of the Speech Awards on 11 May 2019 in Auckland. The purpose of the Hui is to give a broader range of young people the opportunity to be heard on race relations issues. The Hui is open to all youth aged 15-30, and to adults who come with an attitude of listening and supporting younger voices to be heard.

Bahá’í youth in clusters within driving distance of Auckland are encouraged to consider attending the Race Unity Hui, and to invite youth who are friendly to the Faith. Registration for the national Hui is online at https://national-race-unity-hui-2019.lilregie.com/

All Bahá’ís in Auckland and the surrounding area are welcome to support the National Finals of the Speech Awards by attending. Dinner is provided, so registration is appreciated via the above link.

To learn more visit Race Unity website.