Bad Buddhist Vibes

Buddhism is America’s fastest-growing religion, and it’s making some people uncomfortable

At least 2 million Buddhists currently practice their religion in the United States, and many of their fellow citizens disapprove. A survey conducted by political scientists Robert Putnam and David Campbell, coauthors of American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us (2010), endeavored to determine how Americans perceive the nation’s major religions and found that Buddhists rank second to last, above only Muslims, writes James Coleman in Buddhadharma (Fall 2011). The same survey reports that whereas a large Christian church coming to their neighborhood would be acceptable, a large Buddhist temple would raise objections from one in five Americans.

The negative image seems to stem from a lack of publicity, which has contributed to the sort of ignorance that fuels fear. “Buddhism has remained something of a stealth religion, virtually invisible to most people outside our cosmopolitan coastal enclaves,” explains Coleman, who entreats practitioners to enter the public discourse, especially since the faith has become America’s fastest-growing religion with numbers rivaling those of Mormons, Muslims, Anglicans/Episcopalians, and practicing Jews. Coleman points to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for inspiration, not only because of his peace-loving message, but also because of his carefully crafted public image.
http://www.utne.com/Mind-Body/Buddhi...#ixzz1i6HxxSMf

As I understand it historically the Zen community hasn't been exactly evangelical, but maybe a community outreach effort is needed. I live in the bible belt where I have seen how skittish people are about Muslims and the LDS. I would hate to see congress wasting time trying to stop Dharma Law :roll: or trying to make wearing robes or even meditation illegal in public.

Yes I realize I sound alarmist, but I also have family members that would call their congress critter in a second if $televangelist asked them to :-/

Your thoughts?