Here, Queer and Free

A celebratory collection of 21 offerings from Plum Villages Rainbow Dharma Collective and friends

Here, Queer and Free is a community-rooted book for queer people curious about Buddhism and for queer practitioners already practicing in Buddhist spaces, especially those in the Plum Village tradition of Engaged Buddhism. Drawing on the lived experience of LGBTQIA+ practitioners and the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, it shows how Plum Village mindfulness practices—from mindful breathing to deep listening—directly support queer experiences of belonging, healing, living with integrity in a world shaped by discrimination, and transforming suffering into joy.

The 21 writings in this anthology offer Buddhism without erasure and queerness without dilution, revealing how Plum Village teachings of interbeing, compassion, and inclusiveness resonate deeply with queer lives—especially our longing for belonging, our healing from external and internalized harm, and our capacity to create chosen family and beloved community.

Lovingly illustrated with nature drawings by queer artist Janne Lenk.