THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK
The Ambedkar Association of North America celebrated the birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar, Jyotirao Phule Jayanti, and Vesak Day at the Laurelville Retreat Center from May 22 to May 25 during its annual three-day Ambedkarite retreat. Around 250 members and representatives from nearly 20 U.S. states including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Ohio, Massachusetts, Georgia, Texas, Florida, Tennessee, Alabama, Illinois, Michigan, Arizona, California, Washington, and Washington, D.C. participated in the gathering. Attendees also joined from the Canadian provinces of Ontario, Alberta, and New Brunswick, along with guests and parents visiting from India.
The annual retreat provided a meaningful opportunity for community connection, cultural expression, and learning centered on Buddhism, equality, social justice, and the teachings of Dr. Ambedkar and Mahatma Phule. The event brought together Ambedkarite families, youth, and community leaders in an atmosphere of fellowship, education, and shared commitment to human dignity and equality.
The retreat began with a meet and greet session on Friday evening. Everyone met new friends and reconnected with old ones. The evening was filled with discussion and excitement for the rest of the retreat.
Saturday started with an early-morning meditation session with Bhante Revata, followed by a Zumba session before breakfast. Ven. Bhante Revata led the grand procession after breakfast.
Saturday’s program continued with Tisharan Panchasheel and Budhda Vandana, followed by the Presidential address. Guest speaker Prof. Laurence Simon shared his thoughts on caste and social justice. Dr Ambedkar International Award Recipient 2026- Prof Atul Bhosekar, Savitrimai Phule International Award 2026:Recipient: Swati Sawant, Mooknayak Excellence in Journalism Award 2026 Recipient: Ambedkarite People’s Voice and Dr Ambedkar International Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 Recipient: Bhante Gunaratna. Jaibhim Award ceremony recognized contributions and volunteer efforts from adults, youths, and children. Before heading to lunch, all the attendees took a group photo, capturing the unity and peace of the day.
After lunch, cultural activities began, including dancing, singing, and giving speeches. The performers ranged from kindergarten children to senior citizens, showcasing talent throughout the AANA community. The cultural activities gave many youths an opportunity to host the program and participate in the AANA community.
An informative AI talk and discussion was held on Saturday evening, while s’mores and games were available for children. The highlight of Saturday evening was Vesak Night. This event started with a talk on Dhamma as a governing principle and the rise, fall, and revival of Buddhism. After a Vandana led by Bhante Revata, there was a candle lighting ceremony. Every attendee offered a candle to Lord Buddha. To wrap up the night, illuminated balloons where the sky to celebrate hope and unity.
Sunday began with meditation and Zumba sessions before breakfast. The Walk for Equality took place, inspired by the teachings of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. The rest of the day focused on sports activities for all ages. Indoor and outdoor games strengthened teamwork, relationships, and participation across all age groups. We had special 90mins session with guest speaker Prof Larry Simon and Advocate Swati Sawant on important topics NY state anti-caste discrimination bill6531/A6920 and caste as protected categories added in couple Boston university released into to conclude the final night of the retreat, all attendees celebrated during DJ Night. A fashion show allowed families to walk down a runway and take photos on stage together. The celebration went on past midnight.
Monday morning had the final meditation and Zumba sessions of the retreat. After breakfast, attendees packed their belongings and exchanged heartfelt goodbyes, promising to see each other at next year’s retreat.
