In Support of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color

Dear Diamond Light Sangha, Friends, and Neighbors,

Ongoing systemic racism and inherent bias throughout our law enforcement agencies and society as a whole have created fractures in our communities. As spiritual warriors and aspiring Bodhisattvas, it is our responsibility to use our Buddhist practice to relieve the suffering of others. Becoming radical in our compassion means understanding the urgency of the suffering that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are experiencing and working toward active change today.

Diamond Light stands with Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in the fight for racial justice. Black Lives Matter. As an expression of the radical compassion to which we aspire, the Diamond Light Board of Directors and Sangha members are:

Using our Buddhist practice as a means to confront and change our internalized racism and White supremacy, and not as a “spiritual bypass” for the suffering being experienced in the world;
Educating ourselves and our Sangha members on systemic racism, ingrained bias, White privilege, and White allyship;
Educating ourselves and our Sangha members on diversity and inclusion to make our Center a welcoming place for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color;
Inviting and promoting Dharma teachers who understand the intersection of systemic racism and Buddhist practice and can teach ways for us to use our Buddhist practice for beneficial change;
Supporting our Sangha members with their feelings of fear, confusion, shame, and anger by creating safe spaces for restorative discussions, training in deep listening and empathy, providing opportunities for grounding and connection, and facilitating healing meditation practices;
Participating in criminal justice and social reform efforts through community town halls, contacting government representatives, and supporting access to voting;
Recognizing that we can continue to reflect and improve on our diversity and inclusivity, and committing to remain open as we make mistakes and grow in our learning.

We are all interconnected and Diamond Light is committed to sustained, ongoing efforts in the cause for racial justice and protecting Black lives.

If you want more information, need support, or have feedback on how Diamond Light can become more anti-racist and inclusive, please contact us.

There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth;
not going all the way and not starting.
Buddha

With sincere concern and loving-kindness,

Amie Diller, Spiritual Director
and the Diamond Light Board of Directors: David Fishman, Heather Breault, Dasha LaMoure, Lauren True, and Jenny Steinmetz