A group of nearly two dozen Buddhist monks has embarked on a remarkable journey from Texas to the White House in Washington, D.C., walking 2,300 miles to symbolize national healing, unity, and compassion. The monks from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth began their pilgrimage on October 26 and expect to complete it by February 12, 2026. This initiative is not only a stride toward peace but also a part of the center’s ambitious plan to create a $200 million Buddhist temple on 14 acres, which will include 840 stupas.
Leading the Walk for Peace is Bhikkhu Pannakara, who emphasizes that their mission is not to protest but to awaken an innate sense of peace within individuals. “Unity and kindness begin within us and can radiate outward to families, communities, and society as a whole,” he stated, highlighting the spiritual and communal aspects of their journey.
As they traverse ten states, the monks are making stops at state capitals, renowned landmarks, and local communities to share their uplifting message of compassion and understanding. Their travel has also included heartwarming moments; children in Georgia greeted the monks with flowers, while in Alabama, they paid respects at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, a significant site in Civil Rights history.
Additionally, the monks have been accompanied by Aloka, a former stray dog from Kolkata, who recently underwent surgery for a leg injury but is expected to rejoin them once fully recovered. His presence adds a touching element to the group’s journey and embodies the theme of compassion extending to all beings.
The monks’ pilgrimage has not been without challenges. A car accident on November 19 resulted in severe injuries to one monk, leading to the amputation of his leg. The local community came together to support the monks by providing a replacement vehicle and ensuring its safety through an insurance plan and necessary repairs.
Buddhist peace walks have a history dating back to 1992 in Cambodia, where it began as an annual tradition focused on uniting people in a war-torn region. The success of these walks demonstrates the power of collective action in fostering peace.
As the monks continue their journey, they invite individuals from all walks of life to join in moments of reflection and camaraderie, promoting the message that peace starts from within. Their efforts underscore a hopeful vision of unity, showing that even in today’s divided world, compassion and understanding are within reach.