We are a Theravada Buddhist community based in New Haven, Connecticut that seeks to create an inclusive space for all to learn about and practice meditation.

Dear Sangha,
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​This Saturday, June 27, from 10:30 am to Noon, we will meet for meditation, small group discussion and a dhamma talk by Joy Burns titled, “Practicing practice, as best we’re able.” ​

Join us in person at the New Haven Free Public Library or online by clicking below:
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ECI Annual Meeting, June 27, 11:15 am to 12:15 pm

Stopping on our path to peace and enlightenment for our annual meeting

5 Mindful Habits to Fight Bias Every Day

• By Mollie Teitelbaum August 13, 2020

If you’re determined to take a real stand against anti-Black racism, there’s plenty of work to be done. Some of that work might start with recognizing that we all have internalized prejudice. And this can perpetuate racist behavior—from the individual level of microaggressions, all the way to ingrained systemic problems, like police brutality and opportunity hoarding.
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Don’t be discouraged. The science of implicit biases helps us to understand why this is, and how we can harness mindfulness to help us show up for the work of anti-racism, even when it’s difficult.

Why We’re Biased

Implicit or “unconscious” biases are automatic, internal processes that associate certain characteristics with members of a specific social group. A significant body of research demonstrates that all people have biases, and that our biases unconsciously influence behavior.

This doesn’t mean that unconscious bias is always maladaptive. For example, unconscious biases that activate feelings of love and care toward friends enable us to be kind without consciously trying. But many of our biases are far more harmful. We learn what we are exposed to, and the culture most of us grew up in is quite literally built upon racism, as well as a host of other unjust prejudices.

​More on the 5 Mindful Daily Habits to Fight Bias​

ECI Weekday Morning Sits

• Community meditation
• Monday through Friday, 7:30–8:30am
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Sangha NOTES

Dana

Dana, the practice of generosity, supports teachers in continuing practice and the lineage of Buddhist teachings. If you benefit from these practices and from this community, please consider supporting us. Dana is currently used to support our website, arrange visiting dhamma teachers, help to feed the New Haven community in need, and support the New Haven Free Public Library in gratitude for their generosity in providing our Saturday meeting space.
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The easiest way to contribute is through this link where you can make a donation via Venmo or with a credit or debit card (via PayPal, no account required). Alternatively, if you want to send a check, please address it to:
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Elm Community Insight
PO Box 6195
40 Putnam Ave
Hamden, CT 06517

Volunteering

We are seeking volunteers to assist with future Saturday Sangha meetings, including setting up, greeting visitors, and providing technical support at the Library. One way to help is to arrive early at the Library (~10:10 am) to help set up the room for Saturday Sangha. Thank you!

Community Resources

Annette Szczesiul is the Sangha's Goodwill Ambassador: if have a need for concrete support (e.g., dog care, food, furniture moving) or emotional support (e.g., going through a hard time, would appreciate check-ins or visits), please reach out to her for coordination at annettesaid22@gmail.com.
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For supportive telephone conversation, warm lines are another resource. These phone lines are staffed by people with expertise in providing mutual aid. A list of Connecticut's warm lines is available here.

Our Community

Find more information about us, learn more about community meditation resources, or subscribe to our newsletter, visit our website at: elmcommunityinsight.org

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