Experiences in Aceh:

Socially Engaged Buddhist Works with Indonesian Survivors

Wednesday, August 31st, 2005

7:00 p.m.

Insight Meditation Center of Pioneer Valley/Dhamma Dena

116 Pleasant Street, Suite 2310 (Eastworks Bldg), Easthampton, MA

Please join us as we welcome Andrew Jilani, member of the local chapter of the Buddhist Peace Fellowship, BPF-Pioneer Valley, as he shares his experiences of working with survivors of the tsunami in Aceh, Indonesia.

In December 2004, the tsunami that struck southeast Asia devastated the province of Aceh in Indonesia. The outpouring of generosity from the world has been immense. Since December much work has been done to rebuild the lives of the people, including infrastructure. This summer Andrew Jilani participated in an education project in Aceh. 

Andrew will share his experiences of working with children, youth, teachers, and Dayahs (Muslim schools). He will also show slides of Aceh and reflect on the ongoing development process there.

Andrew Jilani is an educator and former western Mass resident whose work focuses on cross-cultural conflict resolution.  He has lived in South America, Europe, south and central Asia, and the U.S.  Andrew has been a practitioner of Vipassana meditation for many years and has participated in retreats in Sri Lanka and India.

The event will begin with a short sitting period, followed by Andrew’s presentation.

Sponsored by BPF-Pioneer Valley and the Insight Meditation Center of Pioneer Valley/Dhamma Dena.

FREE and open to the public.

Insight PV/Dhamma Dena is wheelchair accessible.

Please refrain from wearing scented products. Thank you.

FMI:  413- 586-0474 or emiliewoodward@hotmail.com