The Bodhisattva Path in Action: How Buddhism, Politics, and Social Engagement Serve Democracy

The Bodhisattva Path in Action: How Buddhism, Politics, and Social Engagement Serve Democracy

Thursday, September 24th  6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ET

Co-Sponsors: Buddhist Coalition for Democracy (BCD)
Insight Meditation Community of Washington, DC (IMCW)

Intention: As communities navigate increasing polarization, threats to democratic norms, and growing social division, many Buddhist practitioners are asking how the Dharma can inform compassionate and effective engagement in public life. This online forum will explore how Buddhist practice can support democratic values such as participation, dialogue, mutual respect, shared responsibility, and concern for the common good. Rather than focusing on political parties, candidates, or policy positions, the discussion will examine how practitioners can embody Buddhist principles while engaging in civic and social life.

Panelists:

Tara Brach
Spiritual teacher, psychologist, and author. Tara’s teaching blends Western psychology and Eastern spiritual practices with a mindful attention to inner life and a dedication to creating a more just, equitable, and loving world.

Ben Connelly
Soto Zen teacher and Dharma heir in the Katagiri lineage. Ben teaches mindfulness in a variety of secular contexts and works with multifaith groups focusing on intersectional liberation, racial justice, and climate justice.

Kaira Jewel Lingo
Former ordained Zen nun (and trainee of Thich Nhat Hanh), teacher of Buddhist meditation, secular mindfulness, and compassion practices, as well as spiritual mentor with a focus on racial, climate, and social justice.

A timely dialogue in advance of the midterm elections.  The forum will provide space for learning, reflection, and dialogue on how Buddhists can participate in social and political life in ways that are:

Grounded in Buddha’s teachings.
Responsive to present-day realities.
Supportive of connection rather than division.