Zen Peacemakers International

Zen Peacemakers International (ZPI) connects, inspires, supports and trains Peacemakers throughout the world who practice meditation, embody the Three Tenets of the Zen Peacemakers (Not Knowing, Bearing Witness, Taking Action), live an ethical life, and do social action as a path of awakening and service. We hold multi-faith, multi-national Bearing Witness Programs in places of genocide and deep communal trauma.

ZPI is a Buddhist-based 501(c)3 not-for-profit religious US organization with vast international reach. Zen Peacemakers was founded by Zen Master Bernie Glassman, award-winning pioneer in social enterprise and engaged Buddhism, the first successor of Japanese Zen Master Hakuun Taizan Maezumi, and the second abbot of Zen Center of Los Angeles. Bernie’s life of creativity, service, and awakening gave rise to the Greyston Foundation, Mandala and Bakery – a comprehensive social enterprise addressing poverty in Yonkers, NY USA – as well as to Zen Peacemakers Street Retreats and plunges, and the Zen Peacemaker Order. His life inspired countless Peacemakers and Seekers around the globe to heal the sufferings of the world. Zen Peacemakers International convenes a membership of nearly fifteen hundred members and affiliated groups, working in diverse fields of activism such as climate, immigration, peacebuilding, LGBTQIA+, housing and poverty, and many more.