How do the unique experiences and insights of Black American Buddhists shape an understanding of the dharma? Faith traditions have been pillars of many Black American communities and played key roles in racial and social justice movements. Hear how Buddhism interacts with other faith traditions and how Black Buddhist leaders are participating in activism today.
Black Buddhist leaders DaRa Williams, Kamilah Majied, and Willie Mukei Smith explore these ideas and more in a lively discussion curated by Lion’s Roar.
This is the third of three panel discussions with Lion’s Roar this year at the Rubin Museum. The series offers a Buddhist perspective on important issues of our time.
About the Speakers
Mission-driven and community-supported, Lion’s Roar provides Buddhist teachings, news, and perspectives so that the understanding and practice of Buddhism flourishes in today’s world and its timeless wisdom is accessible to all. They do this by providing as many entry points as they can: print and digital publications, website, video, social media, live events, practice retreats, and more. Lion’s Roar tries to bring dharma to people right where they are, knowing what a difference it can make in their lives.
A psychotherapist and wellness coach, DaRa Williams is a guiding teacher at Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, and the program manager and a core teacher in the current IMS Teacher Training Program. She also serves on the Spirit Rock Meditation Center Teachers Council.
Kamilah Majied is a professor of clinical social work and consultant on social oppression and mental health. Majied, who practices in the Nichiren tradition, teaches Buddhism and mindfulness practice from several perspectives, including mindfulness and racial justice. She serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Religion and Spirituality in Social Work.
In addition to being an Episcopal priest, Willie Mukei Smith is a Zen student at The Village Zendo, where he co-leads the People of Color Sitting Group. He is also a psychoanalyst with a private practice and a member of both the Buddhist Council of New York and New York Disaster Interfaith Service.