Chants and dharma songs have played an important role in every Buddhist culture, addressing suffering, joy, and liberation in ways that speak to the heart. What would it mean to engage the Social Protest songs of the Civil Rights Movement, songs of suffering, joy, and liberation, as a dharma gate? These songs emboldened people across the world to lift up their heads, claim their humanity, and declare hope in spite of the realities of generational racial trauma. Crying out, and singing strong for social justice, voting rights, democracy, and freedom this music inspired millions to move their bodies, minds, and spirits towards social action to transform society. This program invites participants into an exploration of liberation through the history of movement songs, Buddhist meditation, active listening, and being with the sacred tradition of African American Spirituals. Sessions will provide historical contexts for music inspired by the Spirituals tradition and invite practitioners into heart transformation as music becomes a base for mindful meditation, joy, and spiritual friendship. The program is open to all participants and no musical training is required– just an appreciation for music and song.
In order to create a diverse student body, at least 1/3 of the spaces will be held for BIPOC participants until two months before the program opening. At that time, held spaces will be opened to any participants on the waiting list. You are encouraged to join the waiting list even if the program appears to be full.
