Tuesdays, 7:00 PM PST
Online & Hybrid
Weekly Sangha for the LGBTQIA+ Community
Alphabet Sangha
We are a weekly meditation group for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Non-Binary, Two-Spirit, Queer, Intersex, Same-Gender Loving, Questioning (LGBTQIA+) and all of the other letters of the queer alphabet communities.
We gather for Buddhist meditation practice, Dharma teachings, and friendly, supportive community. Together we explore mindfulness and awareness for cultivating an open heart in our everyday lives.
We are a diverse, multicultural community, committed to social justice and to maintaining a Sangha that’s led by and for people of all races, ethnicities, classes, genders, abilities, sizes and ages.
We welcome people at all levels of practice. Simple beginning meditation instructions are always offered. If you have specific questions about meditation, a teacher is usually available to answer questions.
WHEN
We meet every Tuesday at 7:00 pm PST, usually until 8:30 pm.
HOW
We meet online and hybrid (online & in person). Hybrid gatherings will be held first and third Tuesdays of every month.
COST
EBMC is supported by the generosity of the Dharma communities that make a home there. There is never a fee charged for any event at EBMC. The teachings and space are always offered freely, and you are invited to donate money or offer your support through participation in the community.
JOIN US
To join us, please sign up for our newsletter to receive weekly updates, meeting information and location.
ACCESSIBILITY
EBMC is fully wheelchair accessible, with two accessible bathrooms. Chairs and cushions are provided, and you are free to bring whatever else you need to make yourself comfortable.
FRAGRANCE FREE
Part of EBMC’s mission is that we are rooted in diversity and committed to building inclusive community. This is an ongoing invitation to a practice of openness, compassion and constant learning.
An increasing number of people in our community are harmed by a variety of common chemicals and fragrances, including “natural” fragrances and aromatherapy products, such as fragranced essential oils. Due to allergies, asthma or other chemical sensitivity, they may have difficulty breathing, migraine headaches, flu-like symptoms and more. When we come to EBMC having used products on our bodies or clothing that include fragrances or chemicals, those who are allergic or sensitive are faced with the choice to stay and get sick, or leave and be excluded.
Please practice with this awareness at EBMC, and help us make EBMC accessible to all by coming to EBMC fragrance free. May we all be healthy and free from harm.
GROUP FORMAT
We have wonderful teachers from a variety of Buddhist traditions, including Theravadin traditions via Thailand and Burma, the Mahayana traditions of SF Zen Center and Thich Nhat Hanh, Shambhala’s Vajrayana tradition, and others. One or two teachers generally lead(s) the group, and sometimes there are peer-led sits with no teacher, facilitated by members of the Sangha.
The typical evening format (subject to change!):
7:00 PM Welcome
7:10 PM Guided meditation
7:40 PM Dharma talk & group activity
8:30 Closing
Please try to arrive a little before 7:00 pm so we can begin together. Newcomers at any level of meditation experience are always welcome!
GET INVOLVED
This sangha is completely run by volunteers. If you want to get involved, drop us a line! alphabetsangha@eastbaymeditation.org
QUESTIONS?
Look around the site. And feel free to email us. alphabetsangha@eastbaymeditation.org