Buddhist Monks Bring Message of Peace and Unity to Virginia HBCUs

PETERSBURG, VA - In a remarkable display of interfaith dialogue and community engagement, a group of Buddhist Monks from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas embarked on a 2,300-mile Walk For Peace that made notable stops at two historic Virginia Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) - Virginia State University and Virginia Union University.

The monks, on Day 98 of their long journey toward Washington, D.C., arrived at Virginia State University on January 31, where they were warmly welcomed by the Trojan community. Students and faculty gathered in the Black Box Theatre to engage directly with the visitors, learning about their spiritual practices and message of unity, compassion, and national healing.

From there, the Walk continued north into the Richmond area, where the monks' journey drew massive crowds and heightened media attention.

On February 2, the monks' Virginia HBCU tour included a stop at Virginia Union University, where campus events included blessings, teachings, and a Q&A session focused on inner peace, mindfulness practices, and the meaning behind the monks' simple lifestyle and attire. The discussion emphasized that peace begins within the mind - a powerful message that resonates deeply with the HBCU community's emphasis on holistic student development and social justice.

"The monks' visit to our campuses underscores the HBCU community's longstanding commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting the values of peace, unity, and compassion. As institutions founded to empower marginalized communities, HBCUs have always been at the forefront of social and spiritual transformation. The presence of these Buddhist monks on our campuses is a powerful reminder of the common humanity that binds us all together."

The larger context of the monks' Walk For Peace is a remarkable feat of endurance and dedication, with the journey scheduled to conclude in Washington, D.C. in early February. As the group's supporters continue to turn out in large numbers along the route, the significance of their message and the meaningful connections forged with the HBCU community will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.