Black Buddhists and the Black Radical Tradition

by Vesely-Flad

Explores how Black Buddhist Teachers and Practitioners interpret Western Buddhism in unique spiritual and communal ways

In Black Buddhists and the Black Radical Tradition , Rima Vesely-Flad examines the distinctive features of Black-identifying Buddhist practitioners, arguing that Black Buddhists interpret Buddhist teachings in ways that are congruent with Black radical thought. Indeed, the volume makes the case that given their experiences with racism―both in the larger society and also within largely white-oriented Buddhist organizations―Black cultural frameworks are necessary for illuminating the Buddha’s wisdom.

Drawing on interviews with forty Black Buddhist teachers and practitioners, Vesely-Flad argues that Buddhist teachings, through their focus on healing intergenerational trauma, provide a vitally important foundation for achieving Black liberation. She shows that Buddhist teachings as practiced by Black Americans emphasize different aspects of the religion than do those in white convert Buddhist communities, focusing more on devotional practices to ancestors and community uplift.

The book includes discussions of the Black Power movement, the Black feminist movement, and the Black prophetic tradition. It also offers a nuanced discussion of how the Black body, which has historically been reviled, is claimed as a vehicle for liberation. In so doing, the book explores how the experiences of non-binary, gender non-conforming, and transgender practitioners of African descent are validated within the tradition. The book also uplifts the voices of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer Black Buddhists. This unique volume shows the importance of Black Buddhist teachers’ insights into Buddhist wisdom, and how they align Buddhism with Black radical teachings, helping to pull Buddhism away from dominant white cultural norms.

Genres: Buddhism, Spirituality, Social Justice, Nonfiction

344 pages, Paperback

Published April 5, 2022

Reviews

[grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Rima Vesely-Flad's book, "Black Buddhists and the Black Radical Tradition," for my class on race and power in American Buddhism. Vesely-Flad delves into the intersection of Buddhism and the Black experience in America throughout history & modernity, presenting her argument for the transformative potential of Buddhist teachings in addressing the psychological suffering and systemic oppression faced by Black individuals. The overarching thesis of the book centers on how Buddhist principles can liberate Black people from psychological anguish, offering a path to inner freedom and collective healing amidst societal challenges.

Vesely-Flad begins by highlighting the pervasive impact of generational trauma and systemic racism on Black Americans, emphasizing the misguidings and racist agendas perpetuated by institutional structures. She contends that Buddhism provides a framework for understanding and alleviating suffering, particularly through core tenets like the Four Noble Truths, which acknowledge the existence of suffering and offer an opportunity to transcend it. This recognition in itself is crucial in a world that often overlooks the unique struggles faced by Black individuals due to racism, injustice, and economic disparities.

The book also explores the convergence of Buddhist principles with discussions on gender, sexuality, and identity. Vesely-Flad draws on the insights of influential figures such as James Baldwin and Audre Lorde, highlighting their contributions to understanding love, compassion, and the fluidity of identity within Buddhist contexts. As someone who enjoys reading Balwdin, I enjoyed the quotes chosen from The Fire Next Time. The dialogue on gender as both illusionary and transcendent, coupled with Lorde's exploration of eroticism and sexuality, enriches the discourse on ultimate and relative realities within Buddhism.

Central to Vesely-Flad's narrative is the testimonies of Black practitioners who have found mental resilience and self-awareness through meditation practices. These individuals demonstrate a profound level of emotional control and introspection, enabling them to navigate and challenge systemic oppression while embracing their authentic selves. Vesely-Flad underscores the importance of honesty in acknowledging and channeling emotions such as rage and advocating for constructive outlets that prevent destructive outcomes. Again, I think back to Baldwin, who said that to be a Black person (relatively conscious) is to be in rage, all the time. What role does rage have in societal transformation, especially when interacting with the Buddhist religion?

I found the information occasionally dense, given that I know very little about the Buddhist religion. My Professor was helpful in explaining the key takeaways, and it was fascinating to see Vesley’s point of view on how the practice of Buddhism can serve as a tool for liberation in the Black Community. Vesley speaks to the power of Buddhism in helping individuals navigate the complexities of systemic oppression and intergenerational trauma; to find healing from a form of suffering that aligns with the Buddha’s mission to liberate all peoples from suffering. Personally, I’m all for spiritual enlightenment, but we must empower Blackness regardless of religion, and dismantle the social conditions that keep Black people oppressed.

[Jessica Zu · Rating 5 out of 5]

a must read for all those to wonders what Buddhism would look like if it were allowed to live up to its full libertive and revolutionary potential.
for me it's an answer to Trevon Ling in 1970s book The Buddha: the social-revolutionary potential of Buddhism.
in this book, this is not longer a potential but a reality.
read it, touch it, feel it, trust it.