A group of Buddhist monks is walking across the United States on a journey of over 3,700 kilometers under the name Walking Peace, an initiative that promotes peace and compassion in times of increasing social polarization.
The march began on October 26, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas, and is expected to arrive in Washington D.C. at the end of February this year. It is led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara and brings together monks from Nepal, Thailand, France, and the United States. They are accompanied by a dog.
Unlike a protest or political mobilization, the walk aims to convey a message of unity and reflection through silence and mindful presence.
The monks march forward without banners or slogans, following a Buddhist tradition known as Dhammayatra, which promotes the practice of mindfulness and peace after periods of conflict.
During the journey, they stop in communities, towns, and cities to share moments of meditation and dialogue with the residents.
They walk barefoot in areas where the temperatures allow it, eat only once a day, and sleep outdoors as part of their monastic discipline.
The images shared on social media show a line of saffron-colored robes moving along the roads, generating thousands of comments and reactions. Many users describe the experience as "a lesson in calm" amidst the everyday noise.
The walk has gained special attention due to the presence of Aloka, a stray dog that spontaneously joined Bhikkhu Pannakara during a peace walk between India and Pakistan.
Aloka is part of the monastic community, a symbol of fidelity and hope within the journey.
Her name means "Light" in Sanskrit and she is one of the figures receiving the most support on social media, due to her story and her connection with the monks.
The final destination of this walk, Washington D.C., was not chosen by chance. This city represents the political heart of the country and serves as a symbolic point to conclude a journey that aims to unite Americans and the world.
“Peace is not a destination, it is a practice,” repeats the official message of Walking Peace, which already inspires thousands of followers on social media and communities along the journey.
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