Pre Conference Workshop 9-11 October
Transcending Barriers: Dr. Ambedkar and the Buddhist World

To encourage understanding and communication between the Buddhist followers of Dr. Ambedkar and the wider Buddhist world.

Introduction to the theme

Millions in India (perhaps between 20 and 30) have converted to Buddhism under the inspiration of Dr. Ambedkar. They are mainly from the so-called Dalit communities. Dr. Ambedkar saw Buddhism as a means of bringing about social change based on individual practice. However his followers come from the poorest and most socially deprived sections of Indian society and have little or no resources themselves. They are by and large isolated from other Buddhists in India and from the wider Buddhist world. In India this is due largely to the history and circumstances of their conversion. With the wider Buddhist world it is as much as anything due to poverty on their behalf (they cannot travel easily) and ignorance on the part of others.

As a result most of the newly converted Buddhists have had little contact with other Buddhists and very little effective Dhamma teaching. The consequences of this continuing would be regrettable to say the least. On the other hand if they do experience positive contact with other Buddhists they have an enormous amount to gain from a sense of brother and sisterhood, and the confidence that that brings. Other Buddhists have just as much to gain from contact with them, in the figure and approach of Dr. Ambedkar, in his conviction that Buddhism could bring about a social revolution, and in the energy and inspiration of so many of his Buddhist followers.

Expected Outcome

It is not intended that we come up with a common agenda for future action, although if suitable, practical and feasible suggestions are made they will be considered seriously. Rather we hope that through communicating together as practicing Buddhists not only will the barriers between us begin to dissolve, but individuals and groups will go away inspired to, in one way or another, further this transcending of barriers.

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