Denver Shambhala’s Q&A Regarding Allegations Against Shambhala Leaders

Q&A Regarding the allegations against Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and other leaders in Shambhala.

How has the Shambhala Meditation Center of Denver reacted to the allegations of sexual misconduct against Sakyong Mipham?
  The news of these allegations is absolutely heart breaking and has rocked our community. Our members and friends are experiencing many feelings and emotions at this time. Since the news first broke, The Denver Shambhala community has come together to support one another, and to appreciate the strength and vibrancy of our local group. In many ways, it has brought us all closer together.

Have there been conversations or meetings dedicated to these allegations?
  Yes, we have had multiple community gatherings to directly address this issue. During this challenging time, we are working to be as transparent as possible in order to keep everyone up-to-date.

Have there been any changes to rates of attendance?
  We have not noticed any significant changes in class or program attendance, nor have we experienced substantial loss of community participation overall.

Has there been a change in the rate of donations or other financial issues?
  We have observed a small decrease in membership donations this year, directly related to the news of the allegations. That said, we are on track to balance our budget, and so far, projections moving forward into 2019 are favorable.

How is Shambhala International moving forward?
 It is a difficult and painful time in the global Shambhala community, a time of personal and group reflection. Our community members are waiting for the results of an independent investigation, completed through the Canadian law firm Wickwire Holm. An independent Interim Board has also been appointed to lead our global community through this difficult transition; and we are moving forward one step at a time. Despite a tremendous amount of uncertainty, leaders are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all.

What specific steps has The Shambhala Meditation Center of Denver taken?
 We have decided to create a non-alcohol policy within our community. We are also planning healing meditation sessions, practices and programs in 2019 that we hope will provide support. We will continue to contemplate and discuss the power structures that have led to the harm that has been reported, with the inspiration to create more transparency and accountability for all.

We do not condone harmful behavior by anyone, including any leader within Shambhala, and including the Sakyong himself. Our local leadership are actively working to preserve the essence of the Shambhala teachings, while making necessary changes, during a time of great uncertainty. Throughout 2019, we will be organizing more community gatherings to further discuss the situation as things unfold.

 

Shambhala Meditation Center of Denver Care & Conduct Statement
Shambhala Meditation Center of Denver is a place dedicated to community, learning and spiritual discovery, with roots in Tibetan Buddhism. All are welcome. We are committed to providing a safe place for people of all backgrounds, genders, race, age, and ability; free from harassment, misconduct and discrimination. If you would like, please review our Care and Conduct Policy and let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

Shambhala Care and Conduct Policy Link.

 

If you have further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Phone: 303.369.2807

Email: [email protected]