SAVE THE DATE: ANNUAL LGBTQIA+ Retreat (2026)

*****REGISTRATION COMING SOON***

“Caring for myself is not self–indulgence
It is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
~Audre Lorde~

Open to all who identify as: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, or Queer +. Co-sponsored by the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, and Cambridge Insight Meditation Center.

This retreat is an opportunity for us to come together as an LGBTQIA+ community and care for ourselves: to remember who we really are and to recollect our true inner goodness. We will explore ways of sustaining a kind heart, a clear open mind, and a strong body. We will engage with the ancient teachings and practices offered by the Buddha that cultivate compassion, wisdom, and skillful actions.

As LGBTQIA+ people, in these challenging and difficult times, we recollect the power of community to know that we are not alone, and that together we can begin the healing of centuries of oppression and trauma within a deep knowing of our interconnectedness and interdependence. We learn to trust the unfolding of our lives and to act for the benefit of all beings.

This retreat will be held in Noble Silence. In silence, we are illuminating the heart and mind. It is a real-time practice of stillness and clarity. Participants are asked and expected to refrain from using any electronic devices. This allows for a rare opportunity to unplug and get to know our own reality show with compassion and wisdom. Within this commitment, we are the guardians to each other’s solitude while in this precious community. The more we know and understand our inner landscape, the more we are able to engage with others and the world with both skill and grace.

Guided meditation instructions, Q&A, heart practices, gentle yoga, group meetings with a teacher, and dharma talks will be offered on this retreat. On this rare LGBTQIA+ retreat, we come together to practice turning towards and caring for ourselves, each other, and all that truly matters in our lives, for the highest good of all. Hope you can join us!

Please contact us with questions: events@garrisoninstitute.org

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ACCOMMODATIONS

There are Single, Double and Dorm rooms available. Please note, there is no available guest elevator and all rooms are accessible by stairs—except for those reserved for the mobility-impaired on the first floor. There are two communal bathrooms on each residential floor as well as a comfortable lounge with sofas and easy chairs, where tea and instant coffee are available. The lounges also are equipped with wireless, high-speed internet connection. There are several local hotels within driving distance from the Institute, for those who wish to stay off-site, as commuters. Onsite meals are included with commuter registrations.

The health and safety of our guests and staff is a top priority for the Garrison Institute. To attend a retreat or event all guests, teachers, and staff are strongly encouraged to self-test (at home antigen test is acceptable) within the 48-hour window prior to arriving for a retreat on site, and to bring a 2nd self-test kit when coming on site. We ask everyone to self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and other illnesses before your visit. If you experience symptoms or have a positive diagnosis, please notify us immediately at events@garrisoninstitute.org We will continue to follow any COVID-19 guidelines set forth by our local officials, New York State and the CDC.