For the first time, a major gathering of Western Socially Engaged Buddhist activists, academics and sponsors is happening, August 9 – 14, 2010, at the Mother House of the Zen Peacemakers in Montague, Mass. In efforts to promote the practice of Socially Engaged Buddhism and inspire members of the Western Buddhist community, the Zen Peacemakers are hosting the Symposium for Western Socially Engaged Buddhism.
This 6-day event will feature keynote addresses and panel discussions led by some of the most influential pioneers of Western Socially Engaged Buddhism.
Speakers such as Joan Halifax, Buddhist teacher, Zen priest, anthropologist and author; Bernie Glassman, Zen Master, author, businessman and Zen Peacemakers founder; and Joe Sibilia, CSRwire CEO, Gasoline Alley Foundation founder, author and newly appointed Zen Peacemakers Board Director, will speak and engage conversations about Social Entrepreneurship, Politics, Challenges for Socially Engaged Buddhism and more.
“Joe Sibilia has been a good friend of the Zen Peacemakers for years. As we explore the future of enterprise inspired by Buddhist principles at this summer’s Symposium, we’ll be counting on Joe’s insight and experience in creating businesses that are economically successful, socially conscious and environmentally sustainable,” Glassman says.
Other event presentations will be given by Buddhist monk Matthieu Ricard and actors (depending on filming schedules) Jeff Bridges, Ellen Burstyn and Richard Gere. For a complete list of presenters, detailed schedule or to register, please visit http://www.zenpeacemakers.org/soc_eng_bud/symposium.htm.
“The Zen Peacemakers have demonstrated that the principles of peace and justice in modern economies need not be relegated to ‘sitting on a mat’ and thinking about it. Socially Engaged Buddhists are creating new models of business.
For example, Ben & Jerry’s buys their brownies from Greyston Bakery in New York, which employs people who were formerly homeless, creating a socially-responsible ‘win’ for everyone!” Sibilia exclaims.
“We want to see more examples like this, and the Zen Peacemakers are truly forging the way for Socially Engaged Buddhism to help shape the new economy.”
Source : www.csrwire.com
