Facilitators:
Francis Dwyer
Tova Green
Brenda Proudfoot
David Zimmerman
Unpacking Whiteness will be on hiatus for the remainder of 2021.
If you would like to continue your study of racial justice during this time we suggest two learning opportunities and two books. The books lend themselves to reading with others as both have study guides.
- Many Communities, One Sangha: Exploring the Reality of Equity and Inclusion, presented by the Soto Zen Buddhist Association, led by Rhonda Magee, Mushim Ikeda, and Crystal Johnson. October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 1 - 3:30 pm PT. Information and registration.
- Brooklyn Zen Center is offering a ten-month (October 17, 2021 – July 17, 2022) immersive group experience oriented towards transforming racial harm and suffering, The Bodhisattva Path of Liberation: Racial Suffering and Collective Transformation for practitioners who identify or are identified as white. Beginning in October, participants meet monthly in an online format, balancing intimate small group exploration of racial conditioning and trauma-based somatic practices within a Dharma framework of liberation.
- Layla Saad, Me and White Supremacy, which includes a workbook and suggestions for journaling
- Ijeoma Oluo, So You Want to Talk About Race, which includes discussion questions
Unpacking Whiteness meets one Monday each month, 7:30 – 8:45 pm PT: see below for upcoming dates.
NOTE: The group will not be meeting from September to December 2021 and will begin to meet again in 2022. See above.
The link to join:
Online link
Meeting ID 350-522-3117
Newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike are wholeheartedly welcome. No advance registration is required. Unpacking Whiteness facilitators request that each participant identifies as a white person and is open to courageous self-exploration with the sangha. If you are able, please log in with a computer, tablet, or phone (i.e. some kind of screen) as there will be visual aids.
Unpacking Whiteness gatherings explore whiteness and the structures of racism through a Zen Buddhist lens so that practitioners learn to skillfully engage with and transform white racial conditioning and white supremacist systems. The group focuses on racial justice, interconnection, and liberation, with the intention that sangha members build brave and inclusive spaces in their homes, workplaces, communities, and at San Francisco Zen Center.
Meetings include brief presentations or readings, as well as bringing up and supporting one another in exploring difficult conversations we have had regarding race and white privilege. A typical meeting also includes small group activity, and whole-group discussion.
Resources and slide decks that have been used in previous meetings are here. This list will be updated as the group continues its study.
Upcoming Meetings:
Donations are appreciated, but not required.