Sheryl Petty

Ocha Dharma Sheryl Petty

Many Buddhist practitioners and others are unaware of African-based traditions, or have negative mythology about these systems. Many practitioners of African-based traditions have limited exposure to various forms of Buddhism. Lucumi is an indigenous tradition evolved from the Yoruba people of West Africa. The community and its sister traditions have tens of millions of practitioners worldwide, are on five continents and include people of African, Latin American, Asian and European descent. OCHA DHARMA is offered to support expanded awareness of Lucumi and more forms of Buddhism. It hopes to deepen understanding, dispel mythology, and provide exposure for those interested in these beautiful systems of practice. By placing Lucumi and Buddhism in dialogue as wisdom traditions, the book supports greater positive visibility of African-based traditions, and provides broader access to Buddhism for communities practicing other traditions. This book can strengthen our collective learning including helping heal structural inequity, and increase the positive benefit that people and beings everywhere may experience. Petty, Sheryl. (2016). Ocha Dharma: The Relationship Between Lucumi, an African-based Tradition & Buddhist Practice. Movement Tapestries: NY.