Monks For Peace Heading To DC, See Timeline

UPDATED Feb. 6

WOODBRIDGE, VA — The cross-country trek of more than a dozen Buddhist monks calling for peace by walking from Texas to Washington, D.C., has captured national attention and will pass through Prince William County this weekend.

On Friday the monks were in Fredericksburg. According to their live map, the procession should reach Arlington on Monday, and spend Tuesday and Wednesday in D.C.

Nineteen monks — and their dog Aloka — began their walk on Oct. 26 from Forth Worth, Texas, and are expected to arrive on Feb. 13 at the nation's Capitol. The 2,300-mile venture has been dubbed the "Walk for Peace."

According to the group's Facebook page, the purpose of the walk is "to raise awareness of peace, loving kindness and compassion across America and the world."

On Monday, which is Day 100 of the walk, the monks will depart their overnight stop in Richmond. You can view the route on their live map.

A Facebook page set up for Aloka, the peace dog accompanying the monks, has nearly a million followers. On Jan. 12 the canine had surgery for a leg injury, and has since had to spend much of his time riding in the group's RV rather than walking.

The Prince William County Police Department is collaborating with regional public safety agencies to help coordinate security, traffic management, and any logistical needs or planned stops. The tentative route for the monks will be Richmond Highway (Route 1), northbound from Stafford County to Fairfax County on Feb. 6 or 7. This route and date is subject to change.

Additional route information and updates on expected impacts will be posted on police department social platforms closer to the date of the walk. Follow Facebook and X for more as it becomes available.

The monks have everything they need for their journey, including food, shoes, supplies and other necessities. They are not accepting material donations at this time.

Spectators are asked to follow these guidelines along the route:

• Follow all instructions and guidance from law enforcement and event coordinators.
• Do not attempt to touch, approach or step in front of the monks.
• Always maintain a respectful distance.
• Do not walk behind or follow the monks for safety reasons.
• Supporters are asked to quietly line streets along the route.
• Stay out of roadways and avoid obstructing traffic.