Deepening Kinship: Exploring the Intersections of Queerness, Ecology & Dharma

Deepening Kinship: Exploring Intersections of Queerness, Ecology & Dharma

As practices, kinship and queer ecology can help us get in closer touch with the truth of who we truly are, as well as strengthen our inherent connection with the more-than-human world. In queer ecology, at the scale of the individual, to be queer is to be mutable; queerness signifies that which is unfixed and in a constant process of becoming. At the scale of the collective, queerness is relational, symbiotic and supportive.*  In this retreat we apply these lenses of kinship and queer ecology to explore the paramitas, a set of 10 qualities or perfections of character, that, once honed, lead to liberation of the heart and mind.

Drawing on the wisdom of the land, this retreat weaves together three strands of practice: silent meditation periods, experiential nature-based practices, and small group discussions. These three strands will support us in opening to the questions: How might we deepen into a greater sense of interbeing through the flexible spaces of queer ecology? How does recognizing conditionality and relationality transform and inform our connections with and compassion for ourselves, others, and our more-than-human kin?

We welcome queer affirming folks of all identities and levels of practice to come with open hearts and minds to explore together the intersections of queerness, ecology, and dharma.

*This language is adapted from the definition of queer ecology co-created by the Institute of Queer Ecology and the Institute of Post Natural Studies for their Mutability & Mutualism Seminar.

Venue at Rocky Mountain Ecodharma Center

See website HERE  | Photo gallery HERE  |  Address map HERE

Lodging Options – view lodging options

You may camp in a beautiful campsite, or stay in the lodge.  There are a limited number of single lodging options, such as single rooms, mini singles and glamping.  All the other rooms are shared accommodations.  Contact Kathy at registrar@rmerc.org for any rooming questions.

Lodging Prices are inclusive of all retreat costs

• $475            Camping
• $555            Mini Single
• $555            Glamping
• $475|$950     RV Camping (single/double)
• $555            Semi-Private Nook (single) see details on registration page
• $790            Single Room
• $640            Shared Room  (2 single beds; cost per person).
• $1280          Double Room (see note above)  (1 double bed; cost per couple).

Scholarships

It is our intention that cost not be an impediment to practice. If you cannot afford to attend without a fee reduction, you can ask for a scholarship on the registration web site, and then pay the remaining amount.

Anyone with financial hardship is welcome to apply and will be assessed based on needs and fund availability. We ask that you request the lowest amount required to attend the retreat, so that we can offer support to as many people as possible. But do not let cost be an impediment to your attending.

Payment, Deposits

A non-refundable deposit of $180 is due at the time of registration. Full payment is due 60 days before the retreat start date; you will receive an email reminder before your credit card is automatically charged at that time.

Cancellation, and Refund Policies

• If you cancel your retreat at any time, the $180 registration fee is not refunded.
• Cancellations received 60-30 days prior will get a refund of half of the final payment.
• Cancellations 30-7 days prior will get a refund of a quarter of the final payment.
• For cancellations inside of 7 days there will be no refunds.

Teacher Donations (Dana)

The cost of the retreat is set as low as possible and only covers expenses: renting the center, food, cooks, insurance, and staff  travel.  None of this cost share goes to the teacher, who is solely  supported by the dana (generosity) of the participants. In the tradition of the Buddha, teachings are offered without a set fee, keeping costs  as low as possible, so no one is excluded due to finances. In turn, we ask that your donation be as generous as possible within your means.  Please bring a check or cash. We are grateful for your support.

Infectious Disease Policy

See the complete infectious disease policy here.

RMERC prioritizes creating a safe and comfortable retreat environment. While we don’t require vaccinations, testing, or masks, individual retreats might have stricter policies. We recommend wearing N95 masks during travel and self-monitoring your health before arrival. If you experience symptoms, contact the retreat leader and consider adjusting your plans. HEPA air purifiers are available in shared rooms, and mask-wearing is always welcome.

Time and Transportation

The retreat begins at 4:00pm on the first day, and ends after lunch on the last day. If you are flying into Denver, the airport is about 90 minutes from the center, so you should plan on your flight arriving no later than 1:00pm to reach the retreat center on time. Return flights departing from the Denver airport should leave no earlier than 4:30pm, so you can get to the airport on time. Please do not plan on leaving the retreat early or arriving late. If camping, you might want to allow some extra time to set up your tent before the retreat starts.

Please note that the center is at 8500 feet, similar to most Colorado ski towns. If you are concerned about acclimating from sea level, you might consider arriving a day or two in the Denver/Boulder area before the retreat.

Contact

You will be out of contact with no internet access or cellphone service during the retreat. Please complete all personal business before you arrive. The staff will have the ability to make and receive emergency calls or emails on your behalf, but phone and internet are not available for personal use.

Food and Meals

Three simple vegetarian meals a day will be provided from dinner the first day through lunch on the last day. If you want a snack between meals, or supplemental protein such as jerky or packaged fish, you can bring a small quantity of packaged unrefrigerated food. Tea, coffee and such are available all day long, along with some simple snacks such as mixed nuts and fruit. Please do not bring anything that needs refrigeration (medicine excepted). Excessive snacks are unnecessary: if you need a boost, a little gorp or an energy bar is sufficient for most people.

Special Needs

Figuring menus and quantities, shopping, organizing, and cooking are complex and crucial tasks for a retreat. All meals are ovo-lacto vegetarian with vegan and gluten free options available. We can accommodate common food allergies such as gluten or dairy, but not food preferences. Make sure to include on the registration form full details of any special allergy or health needs you have beyond basic vegetarian, and we will contact you if they require discussion.

Helper (Yogi) Jobs

Some of the work necessary to support the group will be handled by participants during the retreat. You will be able to choose your yogi job, and will keep it throughout the retreat. Most participants find serving others in this way quite enjoyable, and a great opportunity for practice in action.

Click Here for RMERC’s What To Bring List