[Neurodiverse] Neurodiversity and Inclusion Workshop, 21 June 2025

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  • Kokuu
    Dharma Transmitted Priest
    • Nov 2012
    • 7259

    [Neurodiverse] Neurodiversity and Inclusion Workshop, 21 June 2025

    Hi all

    My friend Anlor Davin, who is an autistic priest in Norman Fischer's Everyday Zen sangha, is giving a workshop together with Ben Connelly on Neurodiversity and Inclusion on Saturday 21 June at 1pm-3pm, which I imagine is Pacific Time (although I am checking with her).

    Let me know if you are interested in attending. The Zoom link will be given out at least 24 hours beforehand.

    Gassho
    Kokuu
    -sattoday/lah-
  • Onki
    Novice Priest-in-Training
    • Dec 2020
    • 1051

    #2
    This sounds awesome, Kokuu!!

    Gasshō,

    On
    “Let me respectfully remind you
    Life and death are of supreme importance.
    Time swiftly passes by
    And opportunity ist lost.
    Each of us should strive to awaken.
    Awaken, take heed,
    Do not squander your life.​“ - Life and Death and The Great Matter

    Comment

    • Koriki
      Novice Priest-in-Training
      • Apr 2022
      • 397

      #3
      I am interested. We've had a few neurodiverse folks drop out here and it would be good to know more about how to work with them.
      Gassho,
      Koriki

      Comment

      • Shinshi
        Senior Priest-in-Training
        • Jul 2010
        • 3992

        #4
        I think this is a fantastic opportunity. I think the chances of my attending are small but I would love to have the info in case I can make it.

        Gassho,

        Shinshi
        空道 心志 Kudo Shinshi

        For Zen students a weed is a treasure. With this attitude, whatever you do, life becomes an art.
        ​— Shunryu Suzuki

        E84I - JAJ

        Comment

        • Onsho
          Member
          • Aug 2022
          • 269

          #5
          I would love to be a part of this.

          Gassho, Onsho

          Comment

          • Taigen
            Member
            • Jan 2024
            • 147

            #6
            I am also interested in this!
            Gassho,
            Taigen
            SatLah

            Comment

            • Kokuu
              Dharma Transmitted Priest
              • Nov 2012
              • 7259

              #7
              My apologies, I should have put this link out before. Here is the place to register for the workshop although the basic ticket price is quite costly unless you feel able to use the sliding scale (I bought mine for $34).

              The Zoom link to participate in this event will be provided at least 24 hours before it begins. Please call 415-354-0360 if you have any questions.How can Zen practice be made more inclusive and supportive for neurodivergent individuals? What are the distinct contributions to Zen that neurodivergent people make? How can those who are not neurodivergent better understand and offer meaningful support? This two-hour online event creates a space for deep listening, learning, and conversation about neurodiversity in Zen.Neurodiversity describes the natural variations in how people think, process, and engage with the world, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences. In the context of Zen practice, it invites us to reflect on how traditional forms intersect with different sensory, cognitive, and communicative needs. By creating practice spaces that honor these differences, we move toward a more inclusive and responsive sangha.This event will be guided by Anlor Davin, an autistic Soto Zen priest, author of Being Seen, and founder of AutSit, a Zen and mindfulness-based organization that serves autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Diagnosed with autism at age 46 after years of dedicated Zen practice, Anlor’s journey has shaped her commitment to making spiritual practice more accessible. She will share how Zen helped her understand her neurodivergence and discuss ways to navigate practice with sensory and cognitive differences.She will be joined by Ben Connelly, a Soto Zen priest and author whose work integrates Zen with social engagement. Ben will facilitate a discussion with Anlor, drawing out key aspects of neurodivergent experience in practice spaces, including sensory sensitivities, self-regulation, and how to balance tradition with accessibility.Following their discussion, we will open the floor to neurodivergent practitioners to share their experiences, offering firsthand insight into the diverse ways people engage with Zen. The event will conclude with a Q&A, where all participants will have the opportunity to explore practical ways to make Zen practice more welcoming and accessible.Event Highlights:Welcome & IntroductionAnlor Davin: Personal Story & Zen PracticeDialogue: Ben Connelly in Conversation with Anlor DavinVoices of Neurodivergent Experience: Community SharingQ&A and DiscussionThis event welcomes neurodivergent practitioners, allies, and those wishing to better understand how to support diverse ways of practicing. Together, we will reflect on how to create practice spaces that acknowledge the wide spectrum of human experience and make room for all.Recordings:All course sessions will be recorded, and registered participants will receive temporary access to the recordings for later viewing.


              I will try and convey the most important elements of the workshop afterwards in case others can't make it.

              Gassho
              Kokuu
              -sattoday/lah-

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