Northwest dharma leaders increasingly reflect the diversity of the region, such as this 2016 event at Seattle University featuring Lama Chonyin Rangdrol and Dr. Charles Johnson, both of African origin.
Photo by: Gabriela D’Elia

We’re in a time of transition in Buddhist communities and in society at large. As the dharma takes root across a globalized world, Asian and Western traditions and sciences are coming together with some helpful synergies, and sanghas are integrating their spiritual practices with social service and compassionate action.

There are also many painful events and challenges, ranging from continued ethnic conflict involving Buddhists in several countries, to sexual and financial abuses of power in Asian and Western Buddhist organizations. Many of these are leading to demands for accountability.

The heart of the Buddha’s path is wisdom and compassion, the means by which all conflicts and experiences are workable. The Northwest is fortunate to have Buddhist communities that co-exist and thrive in harmony and tolerance, some of which can be traced to the influence of Northwest Dharma Association.

The association is co-sponsoring two events this fall to support harmony:

• A people of color event Sept. 29.
• A day of Celebrating the Sangha, on Saturday, Nov. 3.

Please spread the word about these events, and participate if you can. Our community is what we make it.

Northwest Dharma Association is open to individual and group members. In the Buddhist tradition, NWDA relies completely on the generosity of our members and supporters.

NWDA supports Buddhist teachings and community by sponsoring events, and by publishing the quarterly Northwest Dharma News, a directory of regional groups, and a calendar of Buddhist teachings and events. All these activities depend on your support.

Please join today, or if you’ve already joined, sustain your membership with a recurring monthly donation. Help keep NWDA operating! It’s easy to do, right here.

Here’s wishing each and every Buddhist community, each and every human and non-human community, safety and peace, clarity and joy.