Category: Social Justice
How the Three Jewels Healed My Heart After Abuse
In the midst of an abusive relationship, Buddhist practitioner Ray Buckner says the three jewels were painfully absent from their life.
What “radical dharma” means to Rev. angel Kyodo williams
I'm dedicated to promoting what the Buddha was dedicated to promoting, which is liberation, says Rev. angel Kyodo williams.
The Fleeting Feeling of Joy
A few months ago, I went out for a night of dancing in the Castro district of San Francisco. Gay men danced amongst queer women, who danced amongst gender-queers. Dancing in a circle, we sang along to the music of Adele, Beyonce, and Lady Gaga — music filled with words that encouraged us to love…
Enlightenment Has No Gender
Sara Lewis reviews "Buddhism beyond Gender: Liberation from Attachment to Identity" by Rita Gross. From the Spring 2018 issue of Buddhadharma.
angel Kyodo williams’ New Year’s reflection
rev. angel Kyodo williams shares how we can set the intention to show up for ourselves and the world in 2018.
Buddhism & Diversity: Profiles, Teachings, and Conversations
LionsRoar.com presents a collection of our best teachings, profiles, and conversations on diversity, race, and identity in Buddhism.
Where Will You Stand?
In a piece first published in 2017 — but just as relevant today — Rev. angel Kyodo williams says we must stand up to racism and expose its institutionalized forms to uphold the dharma — even in Buddhist communities.
Waking Up to Whiteness
For our practice to have meaning in today's world, says Greg Snyder, it must include a thorough understanding of our racial identities and their impact.
Does my transgender identity conflict with Buddhism’s teachings on no-self?
I was born male, but I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m actually a transgender woman. As a Buddhist, I feel conflicted by the teachings on no-self.
A Buddhist Cop’s Approach to Justice
Cheri Maples, a student of Thich Nhat Hanh and former police officer, addresses the current crisis in policing and how a Buddhist outlook could help.
See Us Clearly: A Buddhist’s View of Transgender Visibility
In recognition of the International Transgender Day of Visibility, Ray Buckner shares a personal view of what it means to be Buddhist, gender-queer, and trans.
“Facing Death Is a Device for Tenderizing Hearts”
Twenty-two years ago, Pascal Auclair had to come to terms with his own mortality. Now, as a Buddhist meditation teacher, he’s helping others do it.
Meet a Teacher: Myokei Caine-Barrett, Shonin
Buddhist teacher Myokei Caine-Barrett, Shonin gets personal with the Lion's Roar readership.
My Body, My Life
How mindfulness has helped Buddhist teacher Lama Rod Owens live as a Black queer man in America.
Is My Sangha Inclusive?
When reverend Kiyonobu Joshin Kuwahara asked himself "is my Sangha inclusive?," he wasn’t sure of the answer. So he decided to find out.
“Dear White People” creator Justin Simien talks Buddhism, finding empathy for trolls
One element of Justin Simien’s identity isn’t obvious in his new Netflix hit: Buddhism. But it’s there.
Why isn’t the “Angry Asian Buddhist” angry?
As his cancer goes from bad to worse, the anonymous blogger known as the "Angry Asian Buddhist" strives to accept the absurdity of life.
Countering Oppression by Cultivating Peace
What started as a mindful walk became a personal "disturbance of the peace." Ray Buckner on how taking a moment to pause can transform a negative situation.
Pema Chödrön & bell hooks on cultivating openness when life falls apart
bell hooks talks to Pema Chödrön about how to open your heart to life's most difficult challenges.
Even a Broken Heart is Fundamentally Good
Buddhist practitioner Ray Buckner on the struggles of letting go after a relationship ends, and how being on the dharma path can help.