Awakening Together: An Insight Dialogue BIPOC Retreat

Instructor(s): Peace Twesigye, Elizabeth Faria

Program Description:

There is an African Proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Together, we are stronger and more resilient and can support one another to go a little bit further on the path towards awakening. This program is about just that: supporting each other to awaken together. We will integrate the wisdom practice of Insight Dialogue and investigate the three marks of existence, anicca (impermanence), dukkha (unsatisfactoriness), and anatta (no separate unchanging self). Insight Dialogue is vipassana meditation practiced in relationship. It weaves together the meditative qualities of right view, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration with the wisdom of Dhamma and the voice of another to cultivate connection, inner strength, and deep concentration. When practicing with the three marks of existence at the center of contemplation, we have the opportunity to see the world more clearly as it really is, with fewer distortions of perception. Together, we can become aware of the multilayered, co-created moment and learn to stand with equanimity in a tumultuous world.

Transportation Assistance:

In an effort to make our campus more accessible, we will share a ride-share sheet specifically for this program. We will also provide a single van shuttle ride to and from BCBS on opening and closing days (from Boston to BCBS and from BCBS to Boston) for those who are unable to find a ride using the ride-share boards. The page and van pickup information will be shared with you upon registration.

Noble Silence:

This program includes dedicated periods of both wise speech and noble silence. Some contemplative exercises may involve mindful speaking and listening. Noble silence is to be upheld at all other times.

Experience Level:

Suitable for beginning and experienced practitioners.

Prerequisites:

This program is for those who self-identify as BIPOC.

Cancellation Policy:

This policy applies to all residential programs, including Paths. If you need to cancel your registration, please contact us as soon as possible. Please note cancellation fees are at most $50 for those receiving financial assistance. As of 2023, 100% of your deposit is forfeited if you cancel less than two weeks before the program start date and there is a $50 cancellation fee if you cancel two weeks or more in advance. Beginning in 2024, prior to six weeks before the program start date, cancellation fees are $50 for all programs more than two nights and $25 for programs two nights or less. 50% of your deposit is forfeited if you cancel between two and six weeks of the program start date. 100% of your deposit is forfeited if you cancel less than two weeks before the program start date.

Covid-19 Safety Protocol:

Please review our Covid-19 Safety Protocols here: https://www.buddhistinquiry.org/covid-19/.

DEI:

As we work to become a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive community, we invite feedback/suggestions you may have regarding ways that we can make participation in the program more accessible and welcoming. Please email us at contact@buddhistinquiry.org.

About the Instructor(s):
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  Peace Twesigye

  First introduced to Buddhist teachings from the writings of Thích Nhất Hạnh as a teenager, Peace is now the Director of Buddhist Studies and the Thích Nhất Hạnh Program for Engaged Buddhism at Union Theological Seminary. Peace Twesigye assists in designing and overseeing curriculum in Buddhist Studies, supports and creates spaces for contemplative practice that serve as a basis for students’ active engagement and service in community, as well as supporting academic advisement and dharmalogical reflections with Buddhist students. Peace Twesigye organizes and manages public and private conversations and events as part of the Thích Nhất Hạnh Program for Engaged Buddhism to further expand its public offerings in socially engaged Buddhism. Being a part of the second Teacher Development Cohort cultivating skills of offering Insight Dialogue has supported a path of practice and understanding that surfaces relationality as central. Peace is also currently serving on the board of Lion's Roar.

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  Elizabeth Faria

  Elizabeth Faria has offered Insight Dialogue and silent meditation retreats in Brazil, China, Europe, and Australia since 2013. She has studied with Gregory Kramer and the Insight Dialogue Teaching Community since 2008. She began practicing vipassana on long retreats in 1996, taking a two-year break from work to dedicate time to meditation practice in India, the US, Australia, and Thailand.