On Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ET, the Buddhist Coalition for Democracy (BCD) and Insight Meditation Community of Washington, DC (IMCW) will host “The Bodhisattva Path in Action: How Buddhism, Politics, and Social Engagement Serve Democracy,” a virtual town hall, via Zoom, presented in advance of the US midterm elections. Buddhist teacher/authors Tara Brach, Ben Connelly, and Kaira Jewel Lingo will feature as panelists.
“The approaching U.S. midterm elections are stirring anxiety, urgency, hope, and uncertainty for many of us,” said Kathryn Koehl, BCD Coordinating Committee member and Town Hall Project Manager. “This online forum will explore how Buddhist practice can guide us in meeting these challenges. Rather than debating political positions — or whether Buddhists should engage politically — the event will focus on how to engage.”
The event will reflect on how the Buddhist’s teachings on non-harming, interdependence, wise speech, and compassion can help us respond to today’s realities with wisdom rather than reactivity, communicate across political differences without losing heart, take meaningful action while avoiding further polarization, and ground civic engagement in the bodhisattva path of awakening and service.
“We hope that participants will leave the town hall with the answers to several questions,” said Trisha Stotler, IMCW Events Consultant. “How can we participate in this political moment without hardening our hearts? How do we stand up for what matters while remaining grounded in compassion, wisdom, and respect for our shared humanity?”
Registration is free and open to the public, though donations are strongly encouraged. A portion of funds raised will be donated to the nonpartisan nonprofit Protect Democracy Project, as well as to BCD and IMCW, to support their ongoing advocacy and teaching.
