(Minghui.org) 2019 marks the 27^th year since Falun Dafa, also called Falun Gong,was introduced to the public by Mr. Li Hongzhi in 1992. Falun Dafa practitioners throughout the world celebrated “World Falun Dafa Day” on May 13 with various activities. In New York State, twelve assembly members issued Falun Dafa Day proclamations, and 45 assembly members sent congratulatory letters.

The proclamations praised the practice’s guiding principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance as universal values, and pointed out that Falun Dafa has made valuable contributions to communities.

From top left, Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (1^st District), Assemblyman Andrew R. Garbarino (7^th District), Assemblyman Michael J. Fitzpatrick (8^th District), Assemblyman Mike Lipetri (9^th District), Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine (13^th District), Assemblyman David G. McDonald III (14^th District), Assemblyman Anthony D’Urso (16^th District), Assemblywoman Taylor Raynor (18^th District), Assemblyman David I. Weprin (24^th District), Assemblyman Félix W. Ortiz (51^st District), Assemblyman Robert J. Rodriguez (68^th District) and Assemblywoman Inez E. Dickens (70^th District)

New York State Assemblywoman Inez E. Dickens proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

In her proclamation, New York State Assemblywoman of the 70^th District, Honorable Ms. Inez E. Dickens, wrote, “Whereas, a Great state is only as great as those persons who make up our society with diversity and enrich communities through their cultures and distinctions, including days of special celebration. New York State recognizes the occasions of which hold great significance to those within communities and across the globe; and

“Whereas, World Falun Dafa Day is a day to be held in high honor. This year marks New York City's 20^th commemoration on this occasion in continuance of sharing its great benefit it has brought to society. The practice of Falun Dafa was introduced in 1996 to the New York State metropolitan area, where it continues to enrich the lives of millions of New Yorkers through its delivery of peaceful and spiritual practice. Since its adoption, over 100 million worldwide have become healthier, happier, and more altruistic, and

“Whereas, in 1992, Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, was first introduced by Mr. Li Hongzhi in Changchun, China, and left a lasting impact; and

“Whereas, Falun Dafa, noted in ancient Chinese culture, developed into a public practice in 1992, where practitioners faced prosecution shortly after recognition. Despite the adversity Falun Dafa practitioners face, they dedicate countless hours in contributing to their communities and bringing people together, such as providing free wellness and meditation classes in publicly available facilities; and

“Whereas, Falun Dafa Day is an occasion to honor and introduce the beauty and benefits such practice offers, as well as raises awareness of the persecution that persists with the aim to bring the practice to an end; and now, therefore, be it

“Proclaimed, that as a duly elected Member of the State Assembly of New York, I recognize the distinguished celebration of World Falun Dafa Day, and embrace the supporters and practitioners of which have continued to voice their pride in recognizing such auspicious practice.”

Assemblyman of the 1st District Fred W. Thiele Jr. proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Assemblyman of the 68^th District Robert J. Rodriguez proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Assemblyman Mr. Rodriguez wrote that Falun Dafa was first introduced to the public in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi, who then traveled around China lecturing to the public. By 1999, it was estimated that 100 million people practiced Falun Dafa.

Today, Falun Dafa is practiced and cherished by millions of people in more than 70 countries with 41 languages and has received over 3,000 awards.

Assemblyman of the 7^th District Andrew R. Garbarino proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Assemblyman of the 8^th District Michael J. Fitzpatrick proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Assemblyman of the 14^th District David G. McDonald III proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Assemblyman of the 16^th District Anthony D’Urso proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Assemblywoman of the 18^th District Taylor Raynor proclaims World Falun Dafa Day.

Four assemblymen wrote to congratulate World Falun Dafa Day.

Member of the Assembly Mr. Charles D. Lavine congratulates World Falun Dafa Day.

Member of the Assembly Mr. David I. Weprin congratulates World Falun Dafa Day.

Member of the Assembly Mr. Félix W. Ortiz congratulates World Falun Dafa Day.

Four Assembly Members wrote to congratulate World Falun Dafa Day.

“On May 16, 17 and 18, over 10,000 Falun Dafa practitioners from across the world will gather in New York City to celebrate the 20^th World Falun Dafa Day.”

“Falun Dafa is a peaceful spiritual practice rooted in Chinese culture. It consists of meditation, sets of gentle exercise and a moral philosophy that centers on the values of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance, which many people have taken as a guide for their daily lives.”

“Falun Dafa practitioners all over the world have dedicated countless hours to sharing this spiritual practice.”