Vipassana meditation as taught by S.N. Goenka in the tradition of Sayagyi U Ba Khin

Diversity

Northwest Vipassana Center, Dhamma Kuñja, welcomes everyone to our courses. We embrace and respect diversity of everyone, including all colors, identities, genders, religions, backgrounds, and cultures. Despite our unique lives and lived experiences, when we come to a Vipassana course we are united by a common purpose: to discover the way to self-transformation through self-observation to solve the mystery of human suffering. 

Cultural Representation

It is our goal to make this technique and practice accessible to all. We recognize that people of color may feel under-represented or culturally isolated on a course. Our volunteers actively pursue understanding, communication, and outreach to reach out to people of all backgrounds, races and cultures. We continuously prioritize safety at the Center, and a supportive space for people of all backgrounds to pursue individual spiritual development. Your input regarding the progress of these efforts is always welcome, and can be emailed to [email protected].

Non-sectarian Program

Although this teaching comes from Gotama the Buddha, it is presented in a non-sectarian format. The Buddha was not interested in converting people. He had found the Path to the end of suffering and his only interest was to share this with others. It is the same today. The cause of suffering lies within each of us and we only need to look inside to find its solution. This works for anyone regardless of their origins or traditions. And that is what you will learn here.

Languages

When we count up the native languages of the people on our courses, the number often reaches half a dozen. We offer instructions and discourses in up to 50 languages. When you first open the course schedule page, you will be asked if you are comfortable speaking English. If not, you will be invited to take our English Skills Assessment. This test allows you to determine your English language level and lets us provide you with the materials you will need on the course.

Please take the test and enter your result in the application where we ask “Anything you wish to add to the above information?”

Gender Diversity

People of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome to our courses.

The campuses at all the meditation centers in this tradition are segregated into male and female sides. This extends to the residential accommodations, the walking areas, the dining rooms and the meditation hall. This structure is designed to reduce the tension that derives from the mixing of genders.

We recognize this doesn’t work for everyone and that sometimes members of the LGBTQ+ community may not feel comfortable on either side of the compound, or having to identify as male or female. With that in mind, you may choose to let us know about your sexual orientation or gender identity beforehand. You can let us know about your concerns by writing something on the application where we ask, “Anything you wish to add to the above information?” We will contact you and together we will make a plan that works for you. Your private information shall only be used for accommodation arrangement and be kept confidential.

Physical Health Needs

Some applicants may have a special requirement due to a health issue, a physical limitation, pregnancy or a dietary restriction. Any medical diet requirements should be noted, so we can determine in advance if they can be met. Quite often someone may ask for back support or a chair to meditate in. We will do our best to provide whatever you need to meditate comfortably. If you have a special need, please describe in the section “Anything to you wish to add to the above information?” on the application form. We will contact you to discuss your needs.