Monks Walk for Peace in the USA

 

Most Canadians have been appalled by the chaos in the United States as brutal anti-immigration stormtroopers invade communities, often plucking people from homes, schools, places of work, even courthouses. While the resistance to what increasingly appears to be fascism without accountability grows there is a dark cloud of gloom hovering over a nation which claims to be a democratic beacon. Sadly, among those who support these draconian measures are Christian Nationalists, those on the religious right who invoke the name of Jesus in ways that ignore scripture, the teachings of Jesus, and the message of the cross. 

I was surprised to see that in the midst of this a group of Buddhist monks have been engaged in a 4,000 kilometre Walk for Peace that originated in Texas and will conclude in Washington DC. Their route has been lined with well-wishers, an important reminder that people desire demonstrations of love and peace in the midst of hatred and discord.

They are currently in Virginia dealing with the intense Winter storms of the past few days. I heard about this pilgrimage through a story about their sojourn through North Carolina. One of the monks went to a family lining the route and tied a bracelet around the wrist of a young boy. This simple act of kindness astonished the mother because her nine-year-old son is autistic and non-verbal. He often won't allow his parents to touch his body yet it seemsthere was something in the procession itself and in the act of gentle generosity that allowed this child to accept the gift. The mom posted a video on FaceBook and experienced a viral response. She said it also became a meaningful example of inclusion for people with autism.

It's encouraging to see that Christian churches have provided shelter and hospitality for the monks along the route. 

Here is a helpful description of what has unfolded since the Monks Walk for Peace began back in October, 2025: 

Key Aspects of the Walk:

• Origin & Goal: 

  Started by monks from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas in October 2025, it's a non-political journey to foster national healing and understanding.
• The Message: 

  To inspire peace, loving-kindness (mettā), and mindfulness, emphasizing that peace already exists within everyone.
• The Journey: 

  A 2,300-mile trek across multiple states, with planned stops at state capitols and landmarks.
• Community Engagement: 

  Monks interact with locals, offer blessings, and hold meditation sessions, drawing large, supportive crowds.
• Symbolism: 

  Accompanied by a dog named Aloka, and even after a tragic vehicle accident injured some monks, they continued, symbolizing resilience and non-hatred.
• Spiritual Practice: 

  It's a physical manifestation of Buddhist teachings, a living example of peace rather than a protest.

Public Response:

• The walk has gained massive social media traction, with millions following their progress.
• People have been deeply moved, finding hope and a connection to universal values through the monks' actions.