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U.S. state officials nationwide have issued proclamations, citations, and congratulatory letters to recognize World Falun Dafa Day, which is observed annually on May 13.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore <a href="https://en.minghui.org/u/article_images/2025-5-4-dc-513-report_03.jpg">issued</a> a proclamation and citation, respectively, for the designation, ahead of the celebrations at many cities around the world marking the 26th anniversary of the occasion, which was first <a href="https://en.minghui.org/cc/36/">observed</a> in 2000.

“Falun Gong transcends cultural and racial boundaries and contributes to the universal dream of a peaceful, tolerant, and more compassionate society,” Kotek’s proclamation <a href="https://en.minghui.org/u/article_images/2025-5-5-oregon513_hsjoGVo.jpg">reads</a>.

“Falun Gong practitioners’ determination and courage to stand up for the principles of Truthfulness—Compassion—Tolerance in the face of severe persecution has shown the world the value of life and preciousness of human dignity.”

A proclamation commemorating World Falun Dafa Day issued by Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. (Courtesy of Minghui.org)

The three principles—truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance—are the core moral beliefs behind the teachings of Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, a spiritual practice introduced to the Chinese public in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi. The practice’s popularity grew exponentially, reaching at least 70 million by 1999, according to official estimates. Perceiving that the group’s widespread appeal was undermining its iron grip on Chinese society, the CCP responded with a brutal persecution that same year, and the abuses continue to this day.

In 2024, there were <a href="https://en.minghui.org/html/articles/2025/1/12/223586.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">164</a> newly reported deaths of practitioners due to the CCP's persecution, with the oldest person dying being a 91-year-old woman from northern China’s Heilongjiang Province, according to Minghui.org, a U.S.-based website that tracks the regime’s persecution of the group.

In New York, some members of the state Legislature issued either a citation or a letter, including Assembly Members Doug Smith, Karl Brabenec, Jodi Giglio, and John Mikulin.

“In recognition of May 13th, 2025, as World Falun Dafa Day in the State of New York, we urge all citizens to join in recognizing the contributions of Falun Dafa practitioners, and to support heir effort to promote peace, health, and harmony across the world, as well as their courage and resilience in the face of persecution by the Chinese Communist Party,” the four assembly members stated in their joint citation dated May 13.

A citation commemorating World Falun Dafa Day issued by New York Assembly Members Doug Smith, Karl Brabenec, Jodi Giglio, and John Mikulin. (The Epoch Times)

In a letter dated May 13, New York Sen. April Baskin stated that this "special day" offers “renewed hope for a future free from oppression.”

“Falun Dafa practitioners have stood firm in peacefully exposing the truth and warning the world about the destructive nature of the CCP’s authoritarian ideology,” the letter reads.

To mark the special occasion, thousands of Falun Gong practitioners <a href="https://www.theepochtimes.com/us/thousands-celebrate-world-falun-dafa-day-with-massive-parade-in-new-york-5855255">marched across Manhattan</a> in a parade on May 9. In a separate event held on May 11, practitioners organized <a href="https://www.theepochtimes.com/us/new-yorkers-celebrate-world-falun-dafa-day-at-manhattans-union-square-5856369">dance and music performances</a> at Union Square.

Some state officials from <a href="https://i.epochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2025/05/id14503620-Citation-World-Falun-Dafa-Day-_Hugehs-Proclomation-e1746797610104.jpg">Pennsylvania</a>, <a href="https://i.epochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2025/05/id14503623-World-Falun-Dafa-Day-Letter-Senator-Lisa-Blunt-Rochester-05132025-v2-e1746797494252.jpg">Delaware</a>, <a href="http://big5.minghui.org/mh/article_images/2025-5-10-il-513proclaim.jpg">Illinois</a>, and <a href="https://en.minghui.org/html/articles/2025/5/12/226969.html">Maryland</a> have also issued similar documents in support of Falun Gong.

Pennsylvania Sen. Mary Isaacson highlighted in her <a href="https://i.epochtimes.com/assets/uploads/2025/05/id14503618-175-Isaacson-citation-13-inch-4C-5132025-signed-e1746797680139.jpg">citation</a> how some Falun Gong practitioners have become victims of China’s state-sanctioned practice of forced organ harvesting.

A citation commemorating World Falun Dafa Day issued by Pennsylvania Sen. Mary Isaacson. (The Epoch Times)

Robert McColley, president of the Ohio State Senate, and Ohio Sen. Jerry Cirino issued a proclamation commending the local Falun Dafa community's observation of World Falun Dafa Day.

"This is, indeed, an important occasion, and it provides an ideal time to acknowledge the unique, global impact of Falun Dafa," it reads.

"Indeed, Falun Dafa has gained a loyal following among Ohioans, who have worked to teach and share its principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, and its lasting impact readily explains why it is so widely held in high esteem."

Michigan state Rep. Karl Bohnak issued a special tribute on behalf of the state to honor the 33rd anniversary of the introduction of Falun Dafa.

"Falun Dafa was brought to Michigan in 1996, and since then, dedicated volunteers have provided free access to the practice through workshops, public seminars, instructional events, and group exercises in libraries, parks, festivals, and senior centers across the state. Their unwavering commitment to serving others has enriched countless lives and contributed meaningfully to the fabric of our communities," it reads.

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert proclaimed May 13⁠–20 “Falun Dafa Week,” in recognition of Falun Dafa practitioners' contributions to the Omaha community.

Illinois Sen. Lakesia Collins issued a proclamation honoring the practice's contributions to the state of Illinois.

"Men and women in the United States are learning Falun Dafa, purifying their hearts, energizing their bodies, and striving to create virtuous communities," it reads.

"Falun Dafa practitioners' determination and courage to stand up for truthfulness, compassion and forbearance while facing severe persecution from the Chinese Communist Party has shown the world the value of life and human dignity."

Rep. Pat Ryan (D-N.Y.) said he couldn’t think of a more fitting time to announce the passage of the bipartisan Falun Gong Protection Act that he co-sponsored to “hold the CCP accountable for their egregious organ harvesting and other human rights violations.”

“I will continue to push to get this passed through the Senate, to get it signed by the President, and will always fight to protect religious freedom for every one of my constituents,” he said.

Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J), a longtime advocate for ending the CCP's persecution of the faith, issued a video addressing Falun Dafa practitioners ahead of the anniversary.

“Happy World Falun Dafa Day to each and every one of you! I want to thank you for your perseverance, especially in light of the severe repression by the Chinese Communist Party. We stand in solidarity with your right to practice as you see fit, and I applaud you for your tolerance and for your goodness. And again, I just want to wish you the happiest day today,” he said.

Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) also issued a video greeting wishing practitioners a happy World Falun Dafa Day.

"As a former assistant legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union, Constitution Lawyer, and lifelong civil rights advocate, I am a proud supporter of Falun Dafa. Falun Dafa is a peaceful religion that teaches meditation-based self-improvement," she said, condemning the CCP's persecution.

The Texas Senate and House both passed resolutions to recognize World Falun Dafa Day on May 13.

"Followers of Falun Dafa constitute an important part of the diverse cultural fabric of Texas, and Falun Dafa Day provides a fitting opportunity to recognize their devotion to the teachings of their faith and to the ideals of peace and freedom," the Texas House bill reads.

Texas House Rep. Tom Oliverson said on the floor, "Although they are heavily persecuted in places like China, in Texas they are free. We welcome them into our state and into our community, and we are grateful for their many contributions.

"We welcome the Falun Dafa practitioners and their commitment to their spiritual discipline, peaceful living, and the defense of religious freedom."

Texas Sen. Angela Paxton welcomed Falun Dafa practitioners to the Senate on May 13 and addressed them on the floor.

"I first learned about the beautiful practice of Falun Gong from one of my constituents," she said. "Practitioners of Falun Gong strive to attune their lives to the universal qualities of truth, compassion, and forbearance."

She condemned the CCP's persecution of Falun Dafa practitioners, noting that the state of Texas <a href="https://www.theepochtimes.com/china/first-ever-us-bill-to-counter-beijings-forced-organ-harvesting-signed-into-law-in-texas-5343285">passed</a> the first state law countering the CCP's practice of forced organ harvesting.

"Texas will continue to stand as a safe haven," she said.

On May 7, the House of Representatives <a href="https://www.theepochtimes.com/china/house-overwhelmingly-passes-stop-forced-organ-harvesting-act-5854059">passed the Stop Forced Organ Harvesting Act</a> (HR 1503) by a vote of 406–1. If enacted, the legislation would sanction anyone implicated in the abuse, including revoking visas and blocking U.S. property transactions. Additionally, individuals who willfully engage in the act could face a criminal penalty of up to $1 million in fines and 20 years in prison.

The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.

In a <a href="https://x.com/Uyghur_American/status/1920259570540155305">post</a> on the social media platform X on May 7, the Washington-based Uyghur American Association thanked the 406 House lawmakers who voted to support the legislation.

“We will continue to advocate for its swift passage in the Senate and for this vital bill to be signed into law,” the association wrote.

Bob Fu, a pastor and founder of U.S.-based Christian nonprofit ChinaAid, urged Congress to pass the legislation in an <a href="https://x.com/BobFu4China/status/1920124586286293107">X post</a> on May 7.

“This bipartisan bill combats China’s horrific practice of forcibly harvesting organs from prisoners of conscience, including Falun Gong practitioners and Uyghurs,” Fu wrote.

“No more silence. No more complicity. Say NO to Crimes Against Humanity.”

Officials around the world congratulated the Falun Dafa community as well.

Andrew Roberts, member of the UK’s House of Lords, said, "I salute the extraordinary courage of Falun Dafa practitioners, who face monstrous persecution at the hands of the Chinese Communist Party."

Jim Shannon, member of the UK parliament, stated that he stood in solidarity with Falun Dafa practitioners against tyranny.

"On World Falun Dafa Day 2025, we honor the courage and resilience of Falun Dafa practitioners who embody Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance in the face of relentless oppression by the CCP's authoritarian regime," he stated. "Your unwavering commitment to these principles shines as a beacon of hope, inspiring freedom and justice worldwide."

Five members of Sweden’s Parliament wrote to Falun Dafa practitioners to commemorate the anniversary.

Swedish MP Ann-Sofie Alm stated, “Today we gather, not only here, but around the world, to observe Falun Dafa Day—a day that carries a message greater than any single movement. It is a day for freedom—freedom to practice one’s culture, freedom to express oneself, freedom to live as a whole person based on one’s own choices.

“So let us stand together today, with hearts open to one another, and carry with us the simple but profound message: that truth, goodness and patience are the way forward—both for the individual and for the world.”

Swedish MPs Helena Storckenfeldt and Boriana Åberg wrote that the day marked a "meaningful celebration for inner peace and personal development."

“It is a day for tradition and goodwill, for health and well-being, for joy, gratitude, and a more peaceful world. Of course, it is also a day to honor the peaceful resistance to the persecution of Falun Gong that has been going on for 26 years in China. It is a day for freedom of belief, for solidarity, and for human rights.”

In Canada, elected officials from three levels of government issued letters and proclamations honoring Falun Dafa in celebration of the anniversary.

Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce wrote on behalf of the Government of Ontario and Premier Doug Ford to offer his congratulations.

"I want to express my sincerest gratitude to the Falun Dafa Association of Canada for their immense contributions to the many lives of Ontarians and local communities. We continue to be inspired by their work as they exemplify the strength and support needed in order to face the turbulence experienced across the globe," he stated.

"For many years, the Falun Dafa Association of Canada has provided space for many diasporas in Canada to engage in Falun Dafa, helping their mental, physical and moral well-being. I am proud of the work that has been done by the Falun Dafa Association of Canada and the opportunity to celebrate this special occasion."

Saskatchewan MP Carla Beck extended her greetings in a letter to the Falun Dafa practitioners in Canada.

"This important occasion offers an opportunity to recognize the enduring principles of Falun Dafa—Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance—and the contributions of Falun Dafa practitioners to communities across our province and our country. The commitment to inner peace, moral integrity, and personal improvement resonates deeply and reflects values that strengthen the social and cultural fabric of Canada."

Several mayors across Canada extended well wishes to the practitioners. Mark Sutcliffe, mayor of Ottawa, proclaimed May as “Falun Dafa Month,” for the 14th time.

"Falun Dafa practitioners follow the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance, incorporating them into their daily lives, striving to become better people in all environments and situations," he wrote. "Transcending the racial and cultural boundaries, Falun Dafa embraces people of all ages, from all walks of life and religious affiliations."

In Australia, Andrew Braddock, deputy speaker of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly, joined in a World Falun Dafa Day celebration in Canberra.

“I am happy to participate in the World Falun Dafa Day celebration. This is a great opportunity to share culture and practice Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. I think the values are vital and politicians should keep them in mind.

“If everyone follows these principles, the community will become much better. Falun Dafa has spread all over the world. Falun Dafa has brought joy, happiness, mindfulness, and spiritual sublimation to so many people, which is absolutely worthy of respect,” he said.

<em>From <a href="https://www.theepochtimes.com/china/us-state-officials-commemorate-world-falun-dafa-day-5856966">The Epoch Times</a></em>

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Frank Fang is a Taiwan-based journalist. He covers U.S., China, and Taiwan news. He holds a master's degree in materials science from Tsinghua University in Taiwan.

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Officials Around the World Commemorate World Falun Dafa Day