Angel Kyodo Williams

Angel Kyodo Williams, born December 2, 1969, is an American writer, activist, and ordained Zen priest. She is recognized as a significant voice in contemporary Buddhism, particularly concerning issues of race and social justice. Williams authored "Being Black: Zen and the Art of Living with Fearlessness and Grace" and co-authored "Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love, and Liberation." She has been described as a leading African-American Buddhist figure.

Her work often bridges Buddhist philosophy with activism, aiming to make these traditions accessible and relevant to Black communities and people of color. Williams founded the Center for Transformative Change in Berkeley, California, and developed programs like fearlessMeditation and Warrior Spirit Training. As of October 2013, she held the distinction of being the world's second female Zen teacher of African descent, with her Buddhist name, Kyodo, signifying 'Way of Teaching.'

Angel Kyodo Williams's spiritual journey began after encountering foundational Zen texts, leading her to seek formal meditation instruction and community. She trained under Roshi Pat Enkyo O'Hara and was ordained as a priest by Francisco Lugoviña, receiving empowerments that allowed her to transmit Buddhist precepts and become a dharma holder. This path solidified her role as a Zen teacher, notably becoming the second Black woman to achieve this status as of October 2013. Her Buddhist name, Kyodo, meaning 'Way of Teaching,' reflects her dedication to sharing these principles.

Williams is a prominent figure in applying Buddhist principles to social activism and personal transformation, particularly within African-American communities. Her book "Being Black: Zen and the Art of Living with Fearlessness and Grace" aimed to introduce Buddhist concepts to Black people and people of color, leveraging Buddhism's 'anti-elitist, anti-authoritarian, and antisectarian essence' to invigorate Black identity politics. She established the Center for Transformative Change, initially as the New Dharma Meditation Center, to address the spiritual needs of people of color and foster individual, community, and social transformation as a spiritual practice. Williams has consistently advocated for greater inclusivity within predominantly white Buddhist communities.

Beyond her writing and teaching, Williams has developed innovative approaches to personal and social change. She is credited with developing practices such as fearlessMeditation, fearlessYoga, and Warrior Spirit Training. Her work in 'transformative social change' is viewed as a new social movement, a concept she has helped to define through her writings. Her initiatives, including the Center for Transformative Change (formerly the New Dharma Meditation Center and Center for Urban Peace), have evolved into hubs for practice and social action, focusing on integrating spiritual development with efforts toward social justice.