"The Four Noble Truths: A Buddhist Theology for Undoing Racism"

abstract:As we white Buddhists begin to deeply examine the sources of white supremacy in our practice, teachings, and communities, the foundational Four Noble Truths provide a powerful contemplative method. With racism deeply embedded in our culture as an emblem of our fundamental suffering, the invitation of the Second Truth is to deeply contemplate how this suffering has arisen historically, presently, personally, and societally. The social craving of white supremacy constructed systems of oppression to preserve power and wealth, and strategic coverup of these systems pervade our culture. The Third Truth recognizes that these systems have been constructed, and they can be dismantled and must. The Fourth Truth reminds us that we all play a role, but explores especially what we individually can do guided by the three trainings—discipline, meditation, and wisdom—to dedicate ourselves to actions that undo racism.