A new community of LGBTIQ Buddhists and supporters will officially launch on 29 November at the Erskineville Town Hall in Sydney, Australia. The organization was founded by Bhante Akaliko Bhikkhu, a Theravada Buddhist monk based in Sydney. The group is non-sectarian and features members from Korean Seon, Tibetan Buddhist, and blended faith backgrounds.

“Rainbodhi’s message is that it’s OK to be queer or gender diverse and also be a Buddhist. You don’t have to choose between these two parts of yourself,” said Bhante Akaliko. “We want our Rainbodhi community to know that they are welcomed, accepted, and loved for who they are. Everyone deserves love and compassion. These are fundamental Buddhist values.” (Star Observer)

The group’s name, Rainbodhi, is a portmanteau combining “rainbow,” which represents the LGBTIQ community, and “bodhi,” the Buddhist term meaning awakening. The group aims to cultivate spiritual friendships across Buddhist communities in the area and is also open to those who are new to Buddhism or meditation, or those simply curious about developing spiritually.

“We also welcome people from all different religions, cultural backgrounds, and other identities,” Bhante Akaliko said. “Our aim is to create a safe and supportive environment for like-minded people to practice meditation, understand Buddhist teachings, and develop spiritual friendships. No religion should preach hate or harm others. There have always been queer and trans people in religious life and it’s important for us to acknowledge that publicly, with pride.” (Star Observer)