Barefoot Monks Embark on a 2,300-Mile Journey to Foster Peace in America
In times when the United States often feels torn by political strife and uncertainty, a quiet counterpoint emerges from an unlikely source. A group of barefoot monks is marching steadily across highways and heartlands, drawing people from all walks of life. Their simple acts of compassion demonstrate that even small steps can make a significant impact on a divided nation.
The Purpose Behind the Saffron-Clad Walks
Nearly two dozen monks from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth began this remarkable trek on October 26, 2025. They plan to cover 2,300 miles, aiming to reach Washington, DC by February 12, 2026. According to a USA Today report, the monks are walking barefoot through ten states under the leadership of Bhikkhu Pannakara. Their mission focuses on promoting healing and compassion amidst the country's deep divisions.
The center behind this walk has ambitious plans for a massive 14-acre temple featuring 840 stupas, with a fundraising goal of $200 million. This journey serves as both a spiritual practice and a public outreach effort.
Awakening Inner Peace, Not Protesting
Bhikkhu Pannakara explained the core philosophy to USA Today. "We walk not to protest, but to awaken the peace that already lives within each of us," he stated. The group's blog elaborates further on this intention. "Our walking itself cannot create peace. But when someone encounters us... when it awakens the peace that has always lived quietly in their own heart — something sacred begins to unfold. This is our contribution—not to force peace upon the world, but to help nurture it, one awakened heart at a time."
Memorable Stops and Community Encounters
The monks have experienced numerous touching moments during their journey. In Georgia, children offered them flowers, and the monks blessed newlyweds at a local farm. At Selma's historic Edmund Pettus Bridge, they chanted for Civil Rights martyrs and released flower petals into the river as a tribute.
After eighty days on the road, the group is now in South Carolina, visiting state capitols and significant landmarks along their route. Communities across the country have welcomed them warmly, with support transcending religious and cultural boundaries.
Accompanying the monks is a rescue dog named Aloka, which means "light." Aloka was brought from India after previously covering 1,864 miles there. The dog recently underwent leg surgery but is expected to rejoin the walk soon.
Historical Roots of Peace Walks
Peace walks like this one have a rich history dating back to Cambodia in 1992. According to Kathryn Poethig's academic paper, such walks originated amid the return of Khmer Rouge refugees. Annual events grew over time despite inherent dangers, often honoring monks who had fallen in the pursuit of peace. This tradition continues today, inspiring similar journeys worldwide.
