The SGI — Soka Gakkai International — is a community-based Buddhist organization whose members practice Nichiren Buddhism. Lay-led and dedicated to peace, culture, and education, it brings together over 11 million people worldwide. SGI-USA Las Vegas is part of this same global community.
SGI-USA is the most diverse Buddhist community in the United States, with over 11 million people worldwide, all practicing the same thing: the idea that YOU already have everything you need to be genuinely happy. You just have to wake it up.
It's not about escaping real life. It's about showing up for it better. Better at work. Better in relationships. Better at bouncing back when things go sideways.
Buddhism for Daily Life
From handling tough situations at work to fixing a strained friendship, this practice gives you real tools for real problems.
Buddhism for Human Dignity
Every single person has equal worth. Not based on their job or their past. Buddhism says greatness is already in you. Period.
Buddhism for Connection
You're not doing this alone. You've got a community. Real people who show up for each other, in Las Vegas and around the world.
The Three Founding Presidents of SGI
The People Who Started It All
Three teachers who believed, even when it cost them everything, that every person deserves to be happy. Their courage is why this organization exists today.
His closest student, imprisoned beside him, carried the practice forward.
Passed the torch to his student in 1960.
Common Questions
FAQ
- What is the SGI?
- The SGI (Soka Gakkai International) is a community-based Buddhist organization whose members practice Nichiren Buddhism. It is a lay-led movement dedicated to peace, culture, and education, with over 11 million people worldwide. SGI-USA Las Vegas is part of that same global community.
- What is the difference between Soka Gakkai and SGI?
- The Soka Gakkai began in Japan in 1930 as a society for the creation of value. On January 26, 1975, the Soka Gakkai International (SGI) was formed to bring that movement together as one global organization. SGI is the worldwide network of which the original Soka Gakkai is part.
- What does SGI practice?
- SGI members practice Nichiren Buddhism, which centers on chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. The practice is built on the conviction that every person already possesses an inherent Buddha-nature and the capacity to be genuinely happy in this lifetime.
- Is SGI open to everyone?
- Yes. SGI welcomes everyone, regardless of background. Nichiren Buddhism is a practice, not a belief system you must accept before you begin, and people are welcome to explore it without identifying as Buddhist.
- How can I get involved in Las Vegas?
- Getting started takes three simple steps: watch our introduction video to learn the chant Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, use the District Locator to find a local group near you, and connect with that district at a meeting. Local district meetings happen in homes and community spaces throughout Las Vegas, and everything is free. You can also reach the community center directly to ask questions.
- Where is SGI-USA Las Vegas located?
- The SGI-USA Las Vegas community center is located at 2725 W. Charleston Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89102-2154. You can reach us by phone at 702-258-6489.