The project aims to spread the Dharma to a new demographic across the UK particularly, with learning and good practice shared across Europe and other parts of the Triratna world.

People of colour, as a demographic, are poorly represented within UK Triratna, even though many Centres do have a handful of people in introductory classes, we are aware that many do not go on to progress within spiritual pathways. This is despite the fact that we know the Dharma has much to offer our communities.

The project will develop a strong online presence, building a sense of community and growing visibility of the potential and power of meditation and the Dharma that is relevant and appropriate for people of colour. We intend to:

– Grow an engaging social media presence with links to bookings for upcoming national and regional events at local Centres.

– Work with our local Centres across the UK, specifically where demographics show that there is reach and relevance for uptake by our audience, there will be support for planning, promoting and delivering local events for people of colour.

If you are a mitra and would benefit from contacting the team who support people of colour then do get in touch

This work is not new – there were People of Colour retreats and introductory sessions in London decades ago, delivered by Paramachitta and Amaragita, amongst others. Some of our current Black Order Members, such as all came to meditation and the Dharma through these targeted events for people of colour.

Back in the day, the events were focused in and around London, where we now see a steady and encouraging flow of Mitras and Order members of Colour at our Triratna centres. Although still in a minority and often not representing the local demographics, there is a community beginning to establish.

Outside of London, many Order Members and mitras often felt isolated and local Sanghas were finding it hard, or did not see the relevance of attracting or engaging people of colour to introductory classes.

Following the death of George Floyd in May 2020 and the response within our Triratna Sanghas, it was recognised that there was a need for a concerted effort in this area to welcome and engage people of colour. 

The Steering group comprises Jayadevi, Suryagupta, Manjusiha, Saravantu and Maitrisara. All are either Order Members of colour or active in the area of anti-racism within our Triratna context. They bring much lived experience to help steer and oversee the project and its outcomes.