(Minghui.org) May 13 marked the 25th World Falun Dafa Day and the 32nd anniversary of the practice’s introduction to the public, as well as the birthday of Master Li, Falun Dafa’s founder.
Elected officials at all levels celebrate this occasion with proclamations and congratulatory letters. Here are some examples.
Flag-Raising Ceremony at the U.S. Capitol
On May 13, 2024, the American flag was raised over the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, who sponsored the event, wrote that the flag was raised in special recognition of Mr. Li for “introducing Falun Dafa to the world and teaching the Core Principles of Falun Dafa – Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance (Zhen, Shan, Ren).
“Your legacy will continue to touch and instill confidence in our future generations of leaders around the world,” he continued.
Congressional Member Reads Proclamation at U.S. Capitol
Patrick Ryan, a House Representative from New York, read his proclamation for World Falun Dafa Day at the U.S. Capitol on May 13. This was included in the Congressional Record.
“Falun Dafa Day was first observed by the general public in May of 1992, in Changchun, China. Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is a self-improvement practice rooted in ancient Chinese culture based on refining the body and mind through special exercises and meditation,” he said. “Across New York’s 18th Congressional District, local Falun Dafa practitioners have participated in countless events to share the beauty and benefits of the Falun Dafa practice.”
Congressional Members Honor World Falun Dafa Day
U.S. Senator Ben Cardin from Maryland issued a Certificate of Special Recognition, “in honor of Master Li Hongzhi introducing Falun Dafa and its principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance.”
Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn from Texas also sent letters to the Southern USA Falun Dafa Association to extend their congratulations on this special day. Senator Cruz’s letter reads, “It is a pleasure to join you in marking May 13, 2024, as the 32nd anniversary of Falun Dafa’s introduction to the public. Your efforts to highlight the history of ancient China and share your experiences with fellow Texans are commendable.
“It is an honor to commemorate this occasion celebrated by more than 100 million people worldwide. I applaud each of you for sharing the illustrious history and rich culture of China as well as drawing attention to the violence and persecution the country has endured,” he continued.
Senator Cornyn’s letter reads, “I recently learned you are celebrating the 25th anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day. Congratulations on this significant milestone. This is an accomplishment for which you and your entire organisation can be proud. I encourage you all to continue pursuing excellence in the years to come.”
New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, chair of the House Republican Caucus, wrote, “This certificate of special Congressional recognition presented to Upstate New York practitioners of Falun Dafa in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day and 32 years of perseverance in the face of persecution by the Chinese Communist Party.”
New York Representative Hakeem Jeffries stated in his letter of support, “During its many years as an organisation, Falun Dafa has been an integral and positive part of the lives of many. Not only is it a wide-reaching movement, but its practices also have tangible effects on our society. Offering access to many different necessities is important to the thriving of New Yorkers and many more around the globe, so we all are celebrating this anniversary, and we are all appreciative of the work of Mr. Li Hongzhi for his founding of this spiritual practice.”
The certificate from Congressman David Trone, who represents Maryland’s 6th District, reads, “In celebration of the 32nd anniversary of Falun Dafa being made public, and the 25th World Falun Dafa Day. Today we are celebrating the Falun Dafa spiritual discipline and its positive impact on the health and spirit of millions of people around the world!”
A letter from Representative Grace Meng in New York reads, “Thank you for hosting this event to provide the community with an opportunity to celebrate with music, dance, and song. Celebrations such as this contribute to the wide breadth of diversity that we cherish here in New York City.”
Congressman Thompson from Pennsylvania wrote, “It’s an Honor to Recognise Falun Dafa for success in practicing for the last 32 years. Thank you for bringing positive changes to the local communities. Please accept my very best wishes for success in all your future endeavors.”
Representative Mike Kelly from Pennsylvania wrote, “This certificate acknowledges both the significance of World Falun Dafa Day and the specific contributions of the practitioners in the Greater Pittsburgh region, honoring their residence and the values they uphold.”
Resolutions from Three States
The Resolution 2354 New York State Senate reads, in part, “Many of those who participate in World Falun Dafa Day celebrate the teachings which have brought physical health, joy, and peace of mind to millions of people across the globe throughout the entire week.” The New York State Senate has passed resolutions for 12 consecutive years to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day.
The House of Delegates of Maryland passed resolution 172 that reads, “Be it hereby known to all that the House of Delegates of Maryland offers its sincerest congratulations to Li Hongzhi in recognition of the 25th World Falun Dafa day, and in celebration of the 32nd Anniversary of Falun Dafa’s Public Introduction. The entire membership extends best wishes on this memorable occasion and directs this resolution to be presented on this 13th day of May, 2024.”
The Missouri House of Representatives issued Resolution 6219 on May 1 that reads, “We, members of the Missouri House of Representatives, One Hundred Second General Assembly, join to applaud the history and accomplishments associated with the Missouri Falun Dafa Practitioners and Supporters to convey to all of those involved this legislative body’s most heartfelt best wishes.”
The Missouri State Senate also issued Resolution 997 on May 6, stating that Falun Dafa was introduced to the public by Mr. Li Hongzhi in 1992 and “Falun Dafa has transcended cultural and national boundaries to bring better health and inner peace to millions around the world including Missouri.”
Five State Governors
The proclamation issued by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen reads, “The State of Nebraska joins in the celebration with Falun Dafa practitioners around the world as they commemorate World Falun Dafa Day on May 13th.”
Wes Moore, governor of the State of Maryland, issued a citation to the Falun Dafa Association of Washington DC. The citation reads, “Be it known: Because of your demonstration of high integrity and ability, meriting our great trust and respect, we are most pleased to award you the Governor’s Citation, in appreciation of your outstanding services to the citizens of this State.”
The letter from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro on May 11 reads, “…Falun Dafa practitioners have contributed to the advancement of our Commonwealth by sharing their unique history, heritage, and time-honored tradition of building more peaceful societies… Celebrating this festive occasion allows us to reflect on the indispensable values of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance for ourselves and each other. I am grateful to the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association and the many practitioners of these teachings for their perseverance in reminding us of the benefits of these meditations and training.
“As Governor, and on behalf of all Pennsylvanians, I am thrilled to celebrate this year’s World Falun Dafa Day. Please accept my best wishes for a joyous event with continued success.”
The proclamation from Governor Eric Holcomb of the State of Indiana reads, “Falun Dafa is a spiritual practice that millions around the world have made a part of their daily lives… Many feel that in Falun Dafa, they have found a deeply rewarding spiritual path and Falun Dafa is taught free of charge and open to all.”
Governor Tim Walz of the State of Minnesota issued a certificate of recognition on May 10 for Falun Dafa Day. The certificate reads, “This certificate is presented to leaders and practitioners of Falun Dafa for their continued commitment to service and for facilitating cultural engagement opportunities in communities across Minnesota and throughout the world. Therefore, with the appreciation and respect of the people of Minnesota, this certificate is presented to: Falun Dafa Day.”
(To be continued)
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