Our Story
The journey of exploring African spirituality and Buddhism—and of unifying one to the other—is a fascinating one. Though Buddhism is often associated with countries like Japan, Thailand, or Tibet, our journey as Buddhists of African Descent sheds new light on Buddhism.
As we learn about the historical origins and spiritual practices of people of African descent, this journey affords us the opportunity to become aware of the interconnectedness and evolution of spiritual beliefs across cultures and continents. We utilize this historical cultural lens to further awaken to how to manifest fundamental truths and principles, we enhance our spiritual core, we enrich our lives, and we profoundly reveal our power in all circumstances.
An Invitation
Nam(u) myoho renge kyo!
We invite you to join us on this African-centered Buddhist journey as we chart together a nourishing and fortifying path for the collective liberation of Black minds, Black bodies, and Black spirits.
Our Mission
To provide spaces for people of African descent to explore Nichiren Buddhism through an African-centered lens and as a force for spiritual, physical, emotional, mental liberation.
To infuse our practice of Nichiren Buddhism with cultural and spiritual elements drawn from throughout the African Diaspora, including music, rhythm, dance, art, philosophy, and more.
To root our practice of Nichiren Buddhism in both the wisdom of our ancestors and the teachings of Lotus Sutra.
To elevate our enlightened Buddha natures such that we may rise and serve as radiant, potent forces within our communities and societies.
OUR BODHISATTVA PLEDGE
Daily enhancing our clarity, compassion, and capacity we apply these principles in our lives to bear witness to our inherent, shared Buddhahood and to make this land the Buddha land.
In the spirit of Umoja (UNITY)
We make the determination to be in the forefront repairing our relationships, appreciating our diversity, eliminating the hatred that has separated us from ourselves and has severed our life-to–life bonds. Ashe!!
In the spirit of Ujamaa
(CO-OPERATIVE ECONOMICS)
We make the determination to overcome our greed, anger, and stupidity in order to actively support and build those initiatives and institutions that will function to sustain our community in a healthy, productive way. Ashe!!
In the spirit of Imani (FAITH)
We make the determination to never forget we possess Buddhahood, to defeat whatever enemies arise, and to be confident that our Buddha nature will emerge as surely and gracefully as the lotus flower from the muddy swamp. Ashe!!
In the spirit of Kujichagulia (SELF DETERMINATION)
We make the determination to boldly look for our mistakes, see the areas to improve and to take action, even if unpopular or painful, to make correctives. Ashe!!
In the spirit of Nia (PURPOSE)
We make the determination to use our practice to bring out our inherent beauty and to utilize every instant to make our thoughts, our words, and our actions create good effects now and into the future. Ashe!!
In the spirit of Ujima (COLLECTIVE WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY)
We make the determination to work tirelessly and endlessly to transform our lives, our families, our communities, and our society to bring about peace, justice, and happiness in this world. Ashe!
In the spirit of Kuumba (CREATIVITY)
We make the determination to live energetically to create value, beauty, and goodness wherever we are and to build a culture that will enhance and glorify our Buddha nature. Ashe!!
Event Title
Event Time
Event Date
Change the event description to include your own content. Adjust the settings to customize the style.
March 2026