The Buddhist Coalition for Democracy (BCD), in partnership with the Insight Meditation Community of Washington (IMCW), is hosting a Virtual Town Hall on Immigration Justice: Compassion in Action on November 20, 2025.

Why This Gathering

We are continuously confronted with the injustice brought upon our immigrant brothers and sisters.  Mass deportation. Detention camps.  Family separation.  Racial profiling.  As Buddhists the suffering we see can be overwhelming.  As Buddhists we contemplate what we can do to help ease the suffering and cruelty.  How can we bring our practice to bear on this urgent issue?

This Town Hall will bring together Dharma teachers, a Buddhists grassroots activist, and a legal expert to explore the intersection of Buddhist teachings, human rights and immigrant justice. Together, we will learn, reflect, and take steps toward compassionate action. 

Event Details

Date and Time: November 20, 2025, 6:00 pm EST

Location:  Online via Zoom (Click here to register)

Duration:  90 minutes

Cost:  Free, with optional dãna (donation)

Panelists: Our panelists include Tara Brach, whose teachings provide a full, compassionate engagement with our world; Lama Rod Owens, an international influencer with a focus on the intersection of social change, identity and spiritual practice; Dr. Marisela Gomez, grassroots activist and advocate for spiritual practice with community organizing; and Lenni B. Benson, Professor of Immigration and Human Rights Law at New York Law School. 

They will reflect and discuss how Buddhist principles such as compassion, nonviolence and interdependence guide us in responding to immigration issues.  There will be an audience Q&A as well as a Call to Action with practical next steps for advocacy and opportunities to stay connected.

Join Us

This is more than an event.  It is a gathering of community, practice and action.  Together we can bring the Dharma to life by standing with immigrant communities in compassion and solidarity.

Register here: https://imcw.org/event/?eventId=1665