Buddhist Monks’ Peace Walk Faces Setback as Injuries Occur

UPDATE: A group of Buddhist monks is facing an urgent setback in their ongoing peace walk from Texas to Washington, D.C., as two members were injured when a truck collided with their escort vehicle. The monks, who began their journey on October 26, 2023, from Fort Worth, Texas, are currently in Georgia as they continue their 2,300-mile trek to promote peace.

The incident occurred last month outside Houston, Texas, when their escort vehicle, equipped with hazard lights, was struck by a truck. According to Dayton Interim Police Chief Shane Burleigh, the truck driver was unable to avoid the slow-moving vehicle, which led to the collision that injured two monks. One monk suffered substantial leg injuries and was airlifted to a Houston hospital, while the other sustained less serious injuries. Fortunately, the injured monk is expected to recover after undergoing a series of surgeries.

Despite this setback, the group of about two dozen monks remains undeterred. They marked day 66 of their journey today, walking from Morrow to Decatur, on the eastern edge of Atlanta. Today, they are inviting the public to join them for a Peace Gathering in Decatur, emphasizing their message of compassion and unity.

The monks, accompanied by their loyal dog, Aloka — whose name means enlightenment — have attracted a massive following on social media, boasting over 400,000 followers on Facebook. Their online presence is a vital tool for sharing progress updates, inspirational messages, and poetry. Recently, they posted, “We do not walk alone. We walk together with every person whose heart has opened to peace.”

As they continue their journey through 10 states, the monks plan to travel near Athens, Georgia, and through the North Carolina cities of Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh, with their sights set on reaching the nation’s capital. Their website features a live map for tracking their progress and allows supporters to offer donations and assistance at their stops.

The monks have everything they need for the journey, including food and supplies. However, they remain open to donations, which can be made through Zelle, mailed checks, or online contributions.

The monks’ peace walk is part of a long tradition of Buddhist activism for peace, inspired by figures like the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh. Their message of non-violence and compassion resonates deeply, especially in today’s climate of division and unrest.

As they face challenges along the way, the monks urge communities to come together in support of peace. With their journey gaining traction online, the monks are calling on their followers to share their message and continue spreading kindness as they move closer to Washington, D.C.

Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring journey and how you can support the monks in their mission for peace.