News & Updates
Resolution of Litigation Against Ezra Bayda and the Zen Center of San Diego
The Zen Center of San Diego has released a statement regarding the resolution of recent litigation against it and its former teacher, Ezra Bayda, over sexual misconduct allegations. Mr. Bayda had been a member of the White Plum Asanga, but he resigned soon after being...
In Memoriam: Martha Ekyo Maezumi, July 11th, 1947 – April 10, 2022
Martha Ekyo Maezumi, widow of our founder, Hakuyu Taizan Maezumi, passed peacefully away from this life the morning of Sunday, April 10, 2022. A singularly talented painter, a true artist, Ekyo will be remembered by all for her kindness and compassion, her example of...
In Memoriam: Baigaku Junyu Daiosho, January 5, 1940 – November 9, 2021
White Plum Asanga member Tenkei Coppens Roshi writes ... Baigaku Junyu Kuroda Roshi, a younger brother of Maezumi Roshi, and better known to most as ‘Hojo-san”, was the abbot of two temples — Kirigayaji in Tokyo and Fujidera in Gotemba, close to Mount Fuji. Over the...
Reflections from the Maezumi Roshi 25th Anniversary Memorial on Zoom
This year we held our memorial service for Maezumi Roshi online. This being the 25th anniversary of his passing, and the first year that all members could participate online from across the globe, we had a unique opportunity for remembrance. All five of Maezumi...
A Statement of the White Plum Asanga Regarding Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
The White Plum Asanga (WPA) was founded by Maezumi Roshi, who was a beloved and brilliant teacher for many of us. He also struggled with alcoholism and was sexually inappropriate with students on several occasions. Our community began to address these issues in 1983....
WPA Teachers Sign Letter to Standing Rock Tribal Chair
This fall, a number of WPA teachers signed a letter supporting the Standing Rock Sioux tribe's protests against construction of the Dakota Access oil pipeline through sacred grounds in North Dakota. The letter, addressed to tribal Chairman David Archambault II,...