Walk for Peace Stops in Downtown Raleigh

Reflecting on day 91 of the venerable monks’ 2,300-mile journey.

Despite the blistering cold and impending winter storm, Saturday, Jan. 24, was a peaceful day in Raleigh as the Walk for Peace came through the city. As part of their 2,300-mile journey from Fort Worth, Texas, to DC, a group of Buddhist monks and their trusty four-legged companion Aloka held a Peace Gathering at the North Carolina State Capitol, marking day 91 of their honorable trek. Thousands of people—from both near and far—gathered Downtown to witness the spectacle, including Gov. Josh Stein and Mayor Janet Cowell, who proclaimed it Walk for Peace Day.

“Thousands of souls gathered as one, proving that when we choose connection over division, when we choose love over fear, something profound happens,” said the monks. “Thank you to everyone who came to Raleigh. Your presence, your courage to stand in the cold, your willingness to be part of this sacred gathering—it moved us deeply and reminded us why this journey matters. This was a day we will never forget.”

Relive the day via a collection of photos below. We wish the monks well on the rest of their journey!