(Clearwisdom.net) On Monday, June 5, 2006, the second "Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance" Art Exhibition was solemnly held in the New York State Assembly Building. Four assembly members came to make speeches expressing their support.
 People appreciate paintings and learn about the truth |
 Ms. Rachlin introduces Falun Dafa and the art works |
In her opening speech, Ms. Rachlin, spokesperson for Falun Dafa Information Center, briefly introduced to the audience what Falun Dafa is and the background of these art works. Every art work displays the personal experience of artists who practice Falun Gong or the experiences of their friends and families. Some works express the purity and sublimation after their cultivation practice, some works depict the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) brutality in persecuting Falun Gong and cultivators' uncompromising spirits, and some other works express Falun Gong practitioners' peaceful resistance and the heavenly principle of "Good will be rewarded and evil will be punished."
Assemblyman McEneny pointed out that the CCP's persecution of Falun Gong is a serious problem. He called on those who visit China not to be enticed by China's material prosperity. Such material affluence is at the cost of ignoring the interests of another group of people. Everyone should have the freedom of spiritual belief.
Assemblyman Reilly thanked Falun Gong practitioners for conveying an important message to the state assembly in the form of culture and arts.
 Assemblyman McEneny |
 Assemblyman Reilly |
Assemblyman Benjamin cautioned the guests not to ignore the CCP's human rights abuses due to economic interests, and said that the current tragedy in China is similar to the Nazi's holocaust of the Jewish people.
Assemblyman Benedetto expressed that frequently people ignore the art exhibitions held on the roadside while passing by in a hurry, but today's art exhibition has touched many people's human nature. Even if they passed by in a hurry, it is hard believe that they were not touched. He felt that it is very important to let more people learn about the human rights abuses happening in China.
 Assemblyman Benjamin |
 Assemblyman Benedetto |
Speakers also included Professor Barnard from Amnesty International (Albany Branch) and Mr. Zheng, whose parents are suffering persecution in China for persisting in practicing Falun Gong.
The exhibition hall was at the main traffic route of the state assembly building. The exhibition was held for three days from June 5-7, 2006, and displayed twenty art works from artists who practice Falun Gong. Visitors who made a special trip to the exhibition as well as passersby who walked by in a hurry were deeply touched by the outstanding painting techniques and profound meaning of the art works. People praised the exhibit by saying, "Very beautiful! Very moving! Very powerful!" Many people, after viewing a few paintings, decided to sign their names on the petition to support Falun Gong practitioners' anti-persecution efforts.
