(Clearwisdom.net) On the afternoon of March 14, 2004, crowds of spectators on both sides of Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC waited for the beginning of the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, which celebrates the Irish traditional festival - St. Patrick's Day.

Falun Gong Procession walking on Constitution Avenue in Washington DC

It was the first time for Falun Gong Practitioners in Washington DC to participate in the 33^rd National St. Patrick's Day parade. Their traditional Chinese color ribbon dance and exercise demo brought eastern culture to the parade. The dragon dance team composed of 18 practitioners won acclaim again and again. The audience spoke up, "Dragon, Dragon."

When the Falun Gong procession passed the podium, the host warmly introduced to the audience, "Falun Gong is a mind and body practice based on principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance. Since its first introduction to public in 1992, Falun Gong has spread to over 60 countries. Let's appreciate their excellent and beautiful performance with applause."

Mr. Wang, organizer of the parade said, "It is our first time to participate in the Irish Parade. We demonstrate Chinese culture in the parade, which indicates the tolerance of Irish people. Though it is cold today, we are pleased to see so many audiences acclaim us."