Exploring the Future of the Dharma in America: Honoring Tradition, Meeting the Moment
In a time when many Buddhist communities are facing an imminent generational transition, skillfully passing the torch to the next generation is of utmost importance for the preservation and continuity of all that's been cultivated. And in a time of political unrest and global ecological crisis, creating a culture deeply resourced in compassion, clarity, and resilience may be among the most important work there is.
How can we resource young people to face a challenging future? How can we connect them to Sanghas — which ultimately also rely on their presence for continuity? How can we bridge the depths of Buddhist practice into the cultural vernacular of a new generation without compromising the core of the teachings?
These questions are the work of Dharma Gates. On May 30th, we are thrilled to host a day-long gathering at Tibet House New York to explore them together.
This day brings together Buddhist teachers, young adult practitioners, Dharma Gates staff and alumni, and all practitioners and stakeholders invested in this conversation — to create a shared field of practice, dialogue, and community.
The Day's Agenda:
10:00 – 10:15am Arrival, Welcome, and Tea
10:15 – 10:30am Vision of Dharma Gates
10:30 – 11:00am Meditation Practice
11:00am – 12:00pm Moderated Panel: Exploring the Future of the Dharma in America: Honoring Tradition, Meeting the Moment with Dharma Teachers Megan Mook, Annie Bien, and Koshin Paley Ellison, moderated by Executive Director Aaron Stryker
12:15 – 1:45pm Lunch (provided)
2:00 – 3:30pm Breakout Sessions (choose your own adventure)
Relational Practice with Miles Bukiet
Tea Ceremony with Lyndsey Harrington
Intergenerational Conversation hosted by Dharma Gates
3:45 – 4:00pm Closing Contemplation
Who This Is For:
For Dharma Gates alumni and community members: this is an opportunity to reconnect with friends from past retreats, deepen your connection to the Dharma Gates community, and meet the teachers and supporters whose generosity makes this work possible.
For teachers, practitioners, and those curious about the future of Buddhism in the West: this is an opportunity to meet the young practitioners who have benefitted from Dharma Gates programs, engage with the questions driving our work, and explore how you might support this mission.
We encourage you to join for the full day if you're able, while understanding if you prefer to drop in for a specific part.
“Incredible. It cracked my heart open. I feel so grateful for the opportunity. I can't afford most meditation retreats and I would not have gotten this opportunity otherwise. I feel a fresh sense of determination and deeper understanding of why I want meditation to be a central part of my time in this body on earth.” -Nomi, Age 29
This video gives a glimpse into Dharma Gates mission and impact, including participants sharing about their experiences