As I stand here tonight and look upon this assembly, I am
reminded curiously of a beautiful bouquet of violets gathered together in
varying colors, dark and light. This is an evidence and indication that the
United States of America is a just and free government, for I see black and
white seated together in perfect harmony and agreement. Hearts are united. This
just government makes such a meeting possible. You should thank God continually
that you enjoy the security and protection of a government which furthers your
development and rules with impartial equity and equality toward all, even as a
father; for in the human world there is no greater blessing.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a talk, 23 April 1912, Washington D.C.; ‘The Promulgation of Universal
Peace: Talks Delivered by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States
and Canada in 1912’)
