A group of Buddhist monks has made headlines in the United States after completing a 108-day, 3700km pilgrimage from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington D.C., aimed at promoting peace. As they walked, they received an overwhelming response from communities across the country, where residents greeted them with flowers and joined their silent march. This demonstration of peace gained traction even in traditionally conservative areas known as the 'Bible Belt,' highlighting a surprising common ground amid a politically and socially divided America.

Debbie Evans, a participant in the reception for the monks in front of Congress, expressed her gratitude for their presence, stating that their journey has brought much-needed deep resonance to the current era, despite her lack of religious affiliation. The social media presence of the pilgrimage has also seen rapid growth, amassing over 5 million followers across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, indicating that the monks' message is resonating with a broad audience and evolving into a cultural phenomenon in its own right.

As the march concluded at the Capitol, thousands gathered to witness this significant event. Monks, adorned in their traditional orange robes, were welcomed with flowers and were seen responding to the crowds with smiles and gestures of gratitude. The event, characterized by its emphasis on silence and compassion rather than political activism, has been described by its organizers, including Venerable Phannakara from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center, as a spiritual call for healing and harmony that transcends divisive politics and emphasizes collective unity among citizens.