Midwest Buddhist Temple echoes the clear statement issued by our parent organization, Buddhist Churches of America, in condemnation of the recent killings of African-Americans and in the call for an end to the systemic racism and abuse that has endured in America and around the world.
We believe that the majority of those in law enforcement genuinely work to keep us safe. That does not excuse those police, officials and citizens, who act in fear, hate and prejudice toward people of color, or of different religious belief or sexual orientation. Society’s systems and laws need to change to eliminate the bias that favors those of a particular color, class and creed, and allow all to live in safety and dignity as human beings.
MBT follows the teaching of Amida Buddha, who is said to have the “Wisdom of Non-Discrimination,” manifested in the Great Compassion that embraces all beings, regardless of age, gender, class, race or any other basis. Buddhists are not immune from racism, which is a learned behavior. We need to work hard to be open to finding this racism within ourselves and to speak out against its manifestation in others.
Black Lives Matter
Namu Amida Butsu
Rev Ron Miyamura, Resident Minister
Kiku Taura, President MBT Board of Trustees