This is, first and foremost, a place where we can show our support for the survivors. It is apparent that people have a lot of other things they need to get off their chests about their time in Shambhala, and that is welcome, too. I don’t want to police anyone’s tone and say that this or that way of expressing yourself is wrong, and I think a wide range of emotions is appropriate in a time like this, even anger.
Certain things, however, won’t be tolerated, such as threats, name-calling, and referring to other posters by name. This is not a place to carry on discussions or catch up with old friends.
If you see something you think is inappropriate, please don’t hesitate to contact the webmaster. Also, if you have written something that you later would like removed or changed, contact me and I’ll take it down or change it.
If you have been a victim of sexual abuse in Shambhala, or have been a witness to it, please contact the police. There is now a criminal investigation underway in Vermont, and the detective leading the investigation is conducting interviews. Please contact the St. Johnsbury detachment of the Vermont State Police and ask to speak with Detective Daniel Lynch if you have experienced, witnessed, or have knowledge of sexual abuse or assault committed by Shambhala members, whether at Karme Choling or on related properties in the area (Barnet, St. Johnsbury, etc) or elsewhere in the Shambhala world (eg. Boulder, Naropa, Shambhala Mountain Center, Halifax, Dechen Choling–anywhere). They are looking for facts, events, or leads, and are willing to follow wherever the investigation goes.
There is also an investigation underway by the Larimer County (Colorado) Sheriff’s Department (Larimer County detective, Ryan Matt, (970) 682-0549, myattrr@co.larimer.co.us). The Larimer County and Vermont State Police investigations are in contact with each other.
Thank you.