Charlotte L. Graham
REL 508
Jan 22, 2003

Jan Willis, by her own admission, brings a unique perspective to Buddhism in America. In her article, "Buddhism and Race: An African American Baptist-Buddhist Perspective," she shares her own experiences and thought as a Buddhist woman of color. Her goal is "to make needed suggestions about how changes might be begun," in the practice of Buddhism in America. (p.90)

She begins by relating her own journey into Buddhism and by sharing the feelings of "otherness" inherent in often being the only black or only one of a few blacks in a gathering of Buddhist worshippers or students. She chronicles the few black Buddhist leaders and teachers available in the United States and explains the expressions of prejudice which cause some African American Buddhists to be more comfortable in all black congregations. She also notes that American Buddhism so far, has been for the well-off white person, not for the poorer person of color.

Next Willis explains that Buddhism, especially tantric Buddhism, offers the African American a metholology for enhancing black confidence. By changing the perception of the self, the African American can deal more effectively with the dehumanization of theslave experience and regain a more positive self-image.

Willis also feels African Americans have something to offer Buddhism. Through their understanding of suffering they can help others understand the First Noble Truth of Buddhism which is the comprehension of suffering. Blacks also have much to contribute in the way of expressing worship and traditional rituals. These changes would help bring about a more American Buddhism.