U.S. governors and lawmakers have recognized the values of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance promoted by Falun Dafa and the contributions of its adherents to local communities on the 32nd anniversary of the spiritual practice’s introduction to the public by founder Mr. Li Hongzhi.
Pennsylvania Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro expressed, “Celebrating this festive occasion allows us to reflect on the indispensable values of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance for ourselves and each other,” in a letter to Falun Dafa adherents in Pennsylvania.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) sponsored the flying of U.S. flags over the U.S. Capitol to commemorate the annual occasion.
On May 13, 32 years ago, Mr. Li introduced Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, to the public in northeast China. The spiritual discipline, which involves meditative exercises and moral teachings focused on improving the mind and body, is now practiced in more than 100 countries.
Since its introduction, Falun Dafa has faced persecution from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), with practitioners enduring torture, psychiatric abuses, and even being killed for their organs. Despite this, adherents have engaged in 25 years of peaceful resistance to raise awareness about the CCP’s persecution.
In addition to raising awareness about the persecution in China, Falun Gong practitioners have continued to offer the practice’s benefits to the public through free teaching.
A flag of the United States was flown over the U.S. Capitol on May 13, 2024, at the request of Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) in special recognition of Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of Falun Dafa. (Courtesy of Jennie Sheeks)
Governors Proclaim Falun Dafa Day
U.S. governors in multiple states have acknowledged the positive spirit demonstrated by Falun Gong adherents in their local communities.
Indiana Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb expressed, “Many have found a deeply rewarding spiritual path in Falun Dafa,” in his proclamation designating May 13, 2024, as Falun Dafa Day in Indiana.
Maryland Democratic Gov. Wes Moore commended Falun Dafa practitioners for their “demonstration of high integrity and ability,” awarding them the Governor’s Citation for their “outstanding services” to the citizens of Maryland.
Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz granted a certificate to local Falun Dafa practitioners in recognition of their commitment to service and cultural engagement opportunities.
Nebraska Republican Gov. Jim Pillen also declared May 13, 2024, as Falun Dafa Day in Nebraska.
Falun Gong adherents in the Washington DC metropolitan area celebrate Falun Dafa Day at the Washington Monument ground on May 11, 2024. (Bin Xue for The Epoch Times)
Bipartisan Congratulations from Lawmakers
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) congratulated Falun Dafa practitioners in Texas on the anniversary of Falun Dafa Day.
Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued a Certificate of Special Recognition in honor of “Master Li Hongzhi introducing Falun Dafa and the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance.”
House representatives, including party leaders, also celebrated the occasion with their constituents.
House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) recognized the positive impacts of the Falun Dafa community on its members and the public.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), chair of the House Republican Conference, sent Falun Dafa practitioners a special congressional recognition for the practice’s anniversary.
