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Dharma Wisdom for Collective Liberation

Rooted in the belief that personal healing and collective liberation are inseparable, we foster a sanctuary for social action, interpersonal healing, and inclusive community. Here in community, we hold both the weight of the world and the joy of our shared practice.

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Core Teachings

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Deep Refuge

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Radical Inclusivity

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Social Justice

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Day Longs

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Skillshares

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Fellowship

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Joy & Movement

Rooted in Gift Economics

We believe spiritual teachings and community care should never have a price tag. Our center operates entirely on Dana (generosity), relying on the voluntary giving of our community rather than transactional fees. This model ensures our sanctuary remains radically accessible to all, regardless of financial means.

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Alphabet Sangha

The Alphabet Sangha is a weekly practice group offering Dharma talks and guided meditations led by LGBTQIA+ teachers for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, two-Spirit, queer, questioning, intersex, and same-gender-loving communities.

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BIPOC Sangha

The BIPOC Sangha is a welcoming community for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to practice meditation, cultivate resilience, and support one another on the path to liberation and inner peace.

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Every Body Every Mind

Every Body Every Mind Sangha is a weekly practice group for people living with disabilities, limitations, differences and chronic illnesses. EBEM offers teachings, guided practices, and practical exercises to develop empathy, kindness, and altruism towards oneself and others.

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Maha Sangha

The Maha Sangha is a meditation and Dharma group dedicated to radical inclusivity and social justice, welcoming all communities to explore liberation, healing, and collective social action together.

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Midday Sangha

Join our peer-led multicultural sangha for silent meditation practice and community building. Wednesdays 12:00 – 1:35 PM PT.

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Gather and Ground: Resist, Regroup, Respond

EBMC is expanding its physical presence with new drop-in community hours designed to foster connection, creativity, and solidarity before our evening practice groups. These sessions are open to everyone, require no registration, and operate on a "come as you are" basis.

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White and Awakening Monthly Sangha

Facilitated by Crystal Johnson, Sarah Emerson, Heather Lear, Kitsy Schoen and guests, the monthly sangha is an opportunity for white people to gather and discuss their dilemmas and successes in waking up to whiteness and making a difference in undermining white supremacy culture in all of its many manifestations, including in our sanghas. Our intention is to create a supportive space that allows us to do the hard and painful inner work that frees us to take action in the world.

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Parent-Caregiver Meditation

A monthly parents’ and caregivers meditation group for restoration, support and connection.

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Book Club: People, Power, Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal by Marshall Ganz (Mtg 4)

Book Club: People, Power, Change by Marshall Ganz

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Book Club: People, Power, Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal by Marshall Ganz (Mtg 3)

Book Club: People, Power, Change by Marshall Ganz

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Book Club: People, Power, Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal by Marshall Ganz (Mtg 2)

Book Club: People, Power, Change by Marshall Ganz

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Book Club: People, Power, Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal by Marshall Ganz

Book Club: People, Power, Change by Marshall Ganz

From Our Community

EBMC is a bright light, a model of what is possible, and one of the most diverse spiritual communities on the planet.

Jack Kornfield

Meditation Teacher & Author

From Our Community

As an organizer, burnout often feels inevitable, and most wellness spaces feel like a disconnect from the real world. Entering into the center in downtown Oakland was different. It isn’t just a place to escape or rest; it’s a sanctuary where we heal collectively so we can actually sustain the work of liberation. For the first time, my whole self is welcomed.

Sasha Smith

Deep Refuge Group Participant

From Our Community

I spent years feeling like an outsider in traditional meditation halls where nobody looked like me. Finding a space intentionally built for people of color and queer folks changed everything. The isolation melted away the moment I realized this community doesn't just talk about diversity—they are fiercely dedicated to making sure every identity is held and honored.

Jake Black

Sangha Member

From Our Community

The financial barrier to spiritual practice in the Bay Area can be incredibly isolating. EBMC’s commitment to gift economics means I never have to choose between finding peace and meeting my basic needs. It is a profound relief to be part of an ecosystem based on generosity rather than transactions.

Bobbi McShae

Daylong Retreat Attendee

Sangha News

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August 21, 2026

EBMC's Stance on Gaza

East Bay Meditation Center’s Leadership Sangha and Staff join the resounding global chorus of people demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and all the occupied Palestinian territories.

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June 30, 2026

20 Years of EBMC: Call for Photos & Videos!

We're turning 20 and we want your photos!

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June 30, 2026

Applications & Info Session for Commit 2 Dharma: A Year-Long Spiritual Practice Program

Commit 2 Dharma: A Year-Long Spiritual Practice Program

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June 30, 2026

Merritt Dialogue Series, featuring Dr. Gabor Maté, Nicole Stewart, and Jeff Chang

Join Us at The New Parkway on July 8