History

The Interdependence Project was started by Shambhala Buddhist teacher Ethan Nichtern in the Fall of 2005, as a simple and informal meditation and Buddhism class in New York's East Village. As the group grew, it became clear that we were interested in more than the many personal benefits of practicing meditation and studying Buddhist psychology and philosophy. We were also interested in how the teachings of mindfulness and interdependence—of knowing more about how our minds actually work—could be put into action in the 21st century world.

In the Fall of 2007, we formally became a 501(c)3 educational and advocacy non-profit dedicated to meditation, integral activism, mindful arts, and meaningful media. This past year we also started IDP groups in Portland, OR and Austin, TX.

Now in 2009 we are thriving both as a live and an online community. We offer drop-in meditation and Buddhism classes, two integral activism projects (one based on eco-activism and responsible consumption, the other based on prison work) committed study courses (Heartcore Dharma), guest lectures, arts classes and groups, salons, and other community events.

Online, our One City Blog carries about 20 weekly articles about Buddhism, culture, interdependent politics, and trying to somehow live mindfully in this 21st century world.

Our weekly podcast is listened to by thousands of folks around the world.

Four years ago it was just a few people in a room, struggling with their minds, looking for a bit more inner peace and a bit more community involvement. It's amazing how everything starts small. In fact, the whole purpose of IDP is to bring fresh understanding to the seemingly tired cliché that it really does all start with you.