The Racial and Social Justice as Dharma Practice Group
The Racial and Social Justice as Dharma Practice Group is committed to study, intimate investigation and conversation, and embodied bodhisattva practice to actualize personal and collective freedom for all beings.
This is a Multi Sangha Program open to all
Facilitated by Chris Fortin and Doralee Grindler Katonah
4th Thursday of each month 6:00 - 8:00 pm PT on Zoom
To register, or for more information email: chrisfortin@comcast.net or grindkaton@icloud.com
The zoom link is sent out each month.
”If we were to simply walk past the fires of racism, sexism, and so on because illusions of separation exist within them, we may well be walking past one of the widest gateways to enlightenment.”
- Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, The Way of Tenderness
More about Racial and Social Justice as Dharma Practice
We understand that we have grown up with systems of ‘baked-in’ oppression which harm us and others. Racial, social, and economic disparities permeate these systems. We strive to wake up to these unconscious identities and use them to develop compassion and wisdom.
We embrace that we cannot do this kind of work alone and that it is in supportive community and through our Bodhisattva Vow that the potential for transformation and the ability to live a life devoted to ending suffering is possible.
We recognize that there is no ‘right’ way or script for action; that we are discerning and asking ‘what are we called to do now, unique to our life circumstances, and moment to moment.’
We practice being present in the midst of suffering and offer our full aliveness for the liberation of all beings everywhere.
Facilitators Chris Fortin and Doralee Grindler Katonah identify as white, U.S. citizens, and Zen Buddhist priests. We understand the limitations of our experiences in relation to race and strive to bring cultural humility to our facilitation of these groups.
Current literature and timely resources inform our monthly meetings and will be sent on registration.
Optional resource: Understanding Our History of Racial Injustice: A Daily Calendar
Dana is always welcome and will be donated by RSJD to an organization dedicated to racial and social justice.
Fierce Love Offered by Bob Andrews RSJD group
RESOURCE LIST
We’ve compiled a set of resources--books, articles, poetry, film and artistic expressions--that were read and discussed over more than seven years in the Racial and Social Justice as Dharma Practice group. It is a vast and wise resource list:
CIVIL RIGHTS PILGRIMAGE TO THE SOUTH
On September 5, 2023 Chris and eight other Buddhist practitioners journeyed to Alabama to witness, learn, and practice within the context of the lived truths of the institution of slavery, the growth of systemic racism, the Civil Rights Movement, and the ongoing work of racial and social justice as currently manifesting in the South.
Photo Slideshow offered by Bob Andrews