Buddhist monks have embarked on a cross-country trek that has attracted national attention as they travel from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., as part of a months-long journey they describe as a spiritual practice.
The more than 2,300-mile journey they dubbed the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center Peace Walk began in late October and is expected to conclude later this winter in the nation’s capital.
The march, according to the group’s official page, aims to promote peace, compassion and mindfulness at a time when they say the country is marked by division and uncertainty.
“This is not a protest,” the monks say in public statements. “It’s a spiritual practice.”
AT LANCASTER MARKET, I WITNESSED AN AMERICA THAT STILL WORKS — NO POLITICS REQUIRED
Buddhist monks participating in the “Peace Walk” arrive in Saluda, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)
The monks are affiliated with a Buddhist meditation center based in Texas.
They describe walking as a moving meditation as they continue to pass through cities, small towns and rural communities across the United States.
They were greeted by supporters gathered along the route, walking short distances with the group and offering food or simply quietly observing as they passed.
The monks keep a blog which traces their journey in real time. On the blog, they say that those who “visit the venerable monks along our path, we tie a thread of blessing around your wrist – a simple thread that carries deep meaning.”
According to the blog, the lanyard is a reminder and every time the wearer sees it “in a moment of stress, during a difficult conversation, when patience seems impossible, it gently reminds you of the intention you made when you met us: to walk with us in spirit, to nourish peace, mindfulness, kindness and compassion in your daily life.” »
“It is a link between this journey and you, a tangible link that says: you are part of this march for peace. We walk together, always,” they write.
Buddhist monks participating in the “Peace Walk” are seen with their dog, Aloka, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, South Carolina. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)
WITHOUT GOD, THE DREAM OF NEW YORK BECOMES HOLLOW. MY WALK ACROSS AMERICA PROVES IT
In addition to the monks, Aloka, a rescue dog the monks call the “dog of peace,” became an unexpected focal point of the trip.
During the trip, photos and videos are shared online showing Aloka traveling along highways and sidewalks, resting during breaks and greeting supporters.
These special moments have allowed the monks’ march to gain traction on social media, where their Facebook following recently surpassed one million followers.
Millions of supporters are sharing messages of encouragement and reflection in response to this journey.
“I’m so inspired. Thank you – America desperately needs this message,” one follower wrote.
Another supporter said the march had a personal impact on his daily life.
Audrie Pearce greets Buddhist monks participating in the “Peace Walk” Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, South Carolina. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)
“I pray for you all every night. You have opened a light in me that makes me want to be a kinder and more peaceful person. I now think before I speak and have become more aware of my breathing,” the follower wrote. “Your journey brings many people to reflect and restore hope in our country and peaceful thoughts throughout the day. The journey you are taking is simply wonderful.”
Others said the message resonated with them during a turbulent time for the country.
“The message of peace resonates with so many people in America during these scary times,” another supporter commented.
So far, the Buddhist monks have traveled much of the country, sparking online searches and interest in the march, the monks’ mission and their destination in Washington. The videos have circulated widely as the group continues its journey east.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
They continue to emphasize that the march is apolitical and open to people from all backgrounds, describing peace as “not a destination, but a way of living.”
The monks say their message remains the same: peace begins with individual action, one step at a time.
