(Minghui.org) Six New York State senators recently issued proclamations in recognition of the 16^th World Falun Dafa Day. They praised the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance and how Falun Dafa has benefited society since its public introduction 23 years ago.

State Senator Kenneth LaValle, 1^st DistrictProclamation by State Senator LaValle

Senator Kenneth LaValle's proclamation stated, “Falun Dafa was first introduced on May 13, 1992 in Changchun, China. It is an uplifting mind and body practice that encourages people to be good and thoughtful of others at all times. It is guided by the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance as part of the universal human values that bridge cultures, nationalities, race, gender, and age.”

“Falun Dafa is practiced and cherished by millions of people in more than 114 countries around the world; It has received over 3,000 awards and its main book of practice has been translated into 38 languages.”

State Senator, Thomas Croci, 3^rd District

Proclamation by State Senator Croci

Senator Thomas Croci's proclamation stated that, “Long Island Falun Dafa practitioners have shared their passion through the presentation of hundreds of free exercise instruction classes in senior centers, corporate offices, health clubs, parks, assisted living centers, libraries, and private residences.”

State Senator Phil Boyle, 4^th DistrictProclamation by State Senator Boyle

Senator Philip “Phil” Boyle wrote in his proclamation, “Since being introduced to the United States in 1996, Falun Dafa practitioners have sponsored many events and presentations such as free exercise instruction classes. In order to advance the practice of Falun Gong and raise awareness to its persecution in China, Falun Dafa practitioners participate in numerous parades where they can showcase their guiding principles of truthfulness, compassion and tolerance.”

State Senator Dean Skelos, 9^th District

Senator Dean Skelos' proclamation stated that, “by July of 1999, the practice of Falun Dafa was so widespread in China, that the Chinese Communist Party under the rule of Jiang Zemin gave orders to destroy it at all costs. What followed was severe persecution of practitioners that has lasted for the past 13 years.”

State Senator John Sampson, 19^th District

State Senator John Sampson's proclamation declared that “we acknowledge and applaud their contributions to the state, city and community through their principles — 'Truthfulness, Compassion and Tolerance.'”

State Senator Bill Perkins, 30^th DistrictProclamation by State Senator Perkins

Senator Bill Perkins' proclamation stated, “Falun Dafa is an ancient Qi Gong discipline and mind and body cultivation; it is a way to improve physical and mental wellness through a series of easy-to-learn, gentle exercises and meditation.”

“Throughout the years, in the New York Metropolitan area, local Falun Dafa practitioners have participated in and sponsored thousands of events; these events have a dual purpose – to share the beauty and benefits of the Falun Dafa practice and to raise the awareness of the persecution.”