In brief
A group of approximately two dozen Buddhist monks is undertaking a 2,300-mile walk across the U.S. to promote peace. After starting in Fort Worth, Texas, the monks have reached Georgia, even after two members suffered injuries from a truck accident in Houston. The community remains engaged, following their journey on social media as they invite the public to participate in gatherings promoting peace. Their ongoing trek raises awareness of Buddhism's long-standing teachings on compassion and non-violence.
ATLANTA (AP) — A group of Buddhist monks is persevering in their walking trek across much of the U.S. to promote peace, even after two of its members were injured when a truck hit their escort vehicle.
After starting their walk in Fort Worth, Texas, on Oct. 26, the group of about two dozen monks has made it to Georgia as they continue on a path to Washington, D.C., highlighting Buddhism’s long tradition of activism for peace.
The group planned to walk its latest segment through Georgia, traveling from Morrow to Decatur, marking day 66 of the walk and inviting the public to a Peace Gathering in Decatur.
The monks and their loyal dog Aloka are traveling through 10 states en route to Washington, D.C. In the coming days, they plan to pass through or very close to Athens, Georgia; the North Carolina cities of Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh; and Richmond, Virginia.
The group has garnered significant attention on social media, amassing over 400,000 followers on Facebook, with their dog Aloka becoming a beloved figure under the hashtag #AlokathePeaceDog.
Despite the dangers, including the recent truck accident which caused substantial injuries to one monk, the trek continues as they focus on their mission. Their Facebook page serves as a platform for updates and inspirational messages, reinforcing their commitment to peace.
“We do not walk alone. We walk together with every person whose heart has opened to peace, whose spirit has chosen kindness, whose daily life has become a garden where understanding grows,” the group posted recently.
The monks’ journey, which reflects fundamental teachings of Buddhism about non-violence and compassion, continues to resonate with supporters across the nation.
