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Posted by Frank Simons September 22, 2013, 1:55 pm

I would appreciate your input on an issue that arose in my life which I have yet to resolve, and haven't yet received any information to either support or refute my position. Maybe you have, or maybe you have some thoughts on the subject. Thanks.

I maintain a small meditation center in Mexico. Most of the people who attend are from the retired U.S., i.e., the white community, although we are open and welcoming to everyone. A young woman, also white but raised for part of her life in Mexico, requested permission to hold classes just for Mexicans, barring attendance by whites. She contended Mexicans are too intimidated by whites to learn to meditate without having segregated classes. She offered support for her position: large Buddhist centers in the U.S. provide special classes and events for "people of color." I asked some people (who should know) if there had ever been evidence that those who are allowed segregation subsequently integrate into the larger community. No answer. I grew up in 1950's Texas in a segregated community, and it seems to me that segregation does not foster integration, but rather reinforces differences.

Any help you can offer will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Frank