Francesca welcomes Greg Snyder and Jozen Tamori Gibson for a conversation around undoing the construct of patriarchy, its impact on our lives and communities, and how to unveil the sacred masculine.
Greg Snyder is a dharma teacher and priest at Brooklyn Zen Center, and a professor of Buddhism at Union Theological Seminary. Jozen Gibson is a senior Zen student at Brooklyn Zen Center, and is a dharma teacher trainee at the Insight Meditation Society. Together, they run the “Undoing Patriarchy and Unveiling the Sacred Masculine” program at Brooklyn Zen Center.
The Construct of Patriarchy
Francesca, Greg, and Jozen begin their discussion by deconstructing patriarchy, which involves the painful trade of humanity for power. Greg addresses patriarchy and trauma, while Jozen talks about the language of the sacred masculine and the deeper understanding we all hold within our bodies.
“Until we’re liberated from [patriarchy], we’re all carrying around traumatized children, to greater or lesser degrees.” – Greg Snyder
Explore why patriarchy persists on ReRooted Ep. 2
Healing the Inner Child (28:34)
The group further discusses the healing work around the trauma of patriarchy, especially undoing the damage inflicted at a young age. Jozen and Greg share the touching story of how they met.
“That inner child that is coming forward is reminding us, we have survived this.” – Jozen Tamori Gibson
Being Present for Healing (42:09)
Francesca asks Greg and Jozen how men can show up relationally with women, especially in the era of the #MeToo Movement. Greg talks about supporting women in a world where they’re constantly dehumanized and being present for the healing. Jozen explores how you can’t force your enlightenment on anyone, and ultimately the work is for us to be in community with one another.
“The one thing that has been important for me to understand is not to expect someone to allow me in when I want them to allow me in.” – Jozen Tamori Gibson
