Buddhist Perspectives on Social Issues

statue of Amida Buddha looking backBuddhism — both basic Buddhism and Jodo Shinshu — are highly relevant to social issues of today. The teachings can provide guidance as we faces challenges as a society, as communities, and as individuals. Social issues, in turn, can provide a compelling context in which to deepen our understanding of the Dharma.

The vision for this page is a collection of statements, talks, or other communications by Reverend Tomioka and other ministers and/or committees providing perspectives on social issues from our Buddhist tradition.

Homelessness

The following perspective was prepared for the Faith-Based Summit on Homelessness, which took place in Honolulu on March 14, 2016 and was co-sponsored by the Institute for Human Services and The Interfaith Alliance Hawaii. The statement was prepared by Reverend Tomioka and David Atcheson on behalf of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Committee on Social Concerns.

A Buddhist Perspective on Homelessness

Immigration

The following statement was released by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Office of the Bishop and Committee on Social Concerns in February 2017:

HHMH Statement on Presidential Executive Order on Refugees and Immigration

Gun Violence

The following statement was released by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Office of the Bishop and Committee on Social Concerns in March 2018, one month after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School:

HHMH Statement on Gun Violence and Mass Shootings