Compassionate Reconciliation
Welcome to the Compassionate Reconciliation website created to keep you updated and informed about the ongoing Compassionate Reconciliation efforts of the Siri Singh Sahib Corporation and the global 3HO, KRI and Sikh Dharma communities.
2020 was a challenging year for all. As we joined the world in facing a pandemic, the global 3HO, KRI, Sikh Dharma International communities faced painful allegations of abuse by Yogi Bhajan. We also received reports of physical abuse and bullying within our youth programs and schools.
We have embarked on a Compassionate Reconciliation process using the foundational principles of restorative justice to guide the healing process. Restorative justice seeks to repair harm while rebuilding a community of trust.
We will also work toward positive change and healing the tensions and conflicts that the community is experiencing. Though difficult, conflict is an important opportunity for growth within each of us, our communities and our organizations. Where appropriate, we will facilitate respectful dialogue in the variety of circumstances being faced by our community and encourage collaboration in rebuilding safer and more peaceful relationships. As a collective we will access other modalities as needed, to work towards healing and conscious change.
There are many facets to the current situation, and the Compassionate Reconciliation program will take time and effort to create opportunities for healing. Our goal is to engage all who are impacted by the issues arising in our community, including those who report harm from sexual misconduct; second generation community members who report harm related to the community’s education and youth programs; and those community members and yoga teachers who are struggling with the implications of the allegations.
We encourage all members of our communities to become engaged in this process and to check back here often for opportunities to do so.
HISTORY
Our Path to Compassionate Reconciliation
In alignment with our commitment to truth and high ethical standards, formal and immediate steps were taken to address the allegations. A committee was formed called the Collaborative Response Team (CRT) to guide the response by our organizations. A neutral third party organization, called An Olive Branch, was hired to conduct an independent investigation and write a report, which was completed and published in August 2020.
The report concluded that the alleged sexual misconduct by Yogi Bhajan “more likely than not” occurred.
Listening Tour meetings were held throughout our global community to provide a safe environment for members to share their experiences and perspectives, so everyone’s story could be heard. It became clear that a broader process for truth and reconciliation was needed.
We chose an impartial and well trained group of professionals to lead the Compassionate Reconciliation process in order to facilitate acknowledgment, healing and inclusion for all those who have reported harm by Yogi Bhajan or our organizations and those in our global community who had concerns about the process taken or the conclusions drawn from An Olive Branch’s report. The Compassionate Reconciliation process can heal the divide among our community members, remain sensitive to those who have experienced pain and loss, and continue to recognize the value of the Kundalini Yoga and Sikh Dharma way of life.
After researching work done in the areas of restorative justice and conflict transformation, and vetting 17 teams from around the world, Just Outcomes was selected for this important work with our community.
The effort to find lasting and just solutions will take at least one to two years to complete. We welcome and invite your assistance and participation in creating new beginnings and visioning the future for our global yogic and dharmic communities. While we do not have all the answers yet, we are opening a space for all voices and input to be included in re-envisioning our future together.
PROCESS
Phases of the Compassionate Reconciliation Process
Phase I prioritizes relationships, assessment, and convening and developing the CRC. Just Outcomes is focusing efforts on meeting individuals and groups within our community to better understand the diverse needs and experiences present. This learning and assessment process is helping Just Outcomes gain an understanding of what might be needed to meaningfully address these needs. Through this networking and relationship-building, Just Outcomes is also supporting the convening and development of the CRC. The CRC will engage the many voices that exist in our community using advisory committees and an inclusive communication strategy. Once established, the CRC will support the design and implementation process occurring in Phases II and III.
Phase II will prioritize strategic planning and capacity building for the successful implementation of restorative justice, conflict transformation and change management processes in Phase III. Though some additional assessment may be needed, the core focus for Just Outcomes will be facilitating and supporting the strategic work of the CRC. Just Outcomes will also design and deliver trainings for those in our community that wish to support this collective healing journey. Phase II will begin sometime in the 2nd quarter of 2021.
Phase III will prioritize program implementation, large scale community dialogue and restorative justice processes, and sustainability planning. Phase III will focus on the execution of the plans put in place by the CRC in Phase II.
Our Hopes for the Future
As a community built on a shared vision of service, righteous action and goodwill to all, we have experienced a time of challenge and polarization. We are committed to finding a path forward by working together to find a place of understanding and healing. Through our Compassionate Reconciliation process, we hope to:
- Include all facets of our communities who wish to be involved, recognizing the value of each person and the importance of hearing all voices.
- Develop greater understanding of the harm experienced individually and collectively, and find our way toward healing.
- Support healing through dialogue, intentional listening, supportive services (such as counseling), and reparative action.
- Restore trust within our communities and affirm the value of our way of life.
- Preserve the integrity, history and benefits of our teachings as well as the sustainability of our organizations.
Engaging in Compassionate Reconciliation
