(Minghui.org) Falun Dafa was introduced to the public by Master Li Hongzhi in 1992. Millions of Falun Dafa practitioners gained physical and spiritual well-being in the past 20 years. On September 25, 2012, Michigan State Senator John Pappageorge and State Representative Marty Knollenberg presented a Declaration of Special Tribute to Falun Dafa in recognition of the contributions of the founder and practitioners of Falun Dafa to the society. Below is the text of the Declaration of Special Tribute.

State of Michigan

A Declaration of Special Tribute

Falun Dafa

20th Anniversary

Let it be known, That it is a great honor and a distinct pleasure to join in commemorating the 20th anniversary of Falun Dafa. This occasion provides a wonderful opportunity to recognize the commitment represented by the practitioners and teachers of this philosophy of promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Since 1992, over one hundred million people worldwide have become healthier, happier, and more altruistic through their practice of Falun Dafa. We gladly recognize the benefits that this great practice has brought to our society. Falun Gong, also called Falun Dafa, is a peaceful spiritual practice rooted in traditional Chinese culture. It consists of meditation, 5 gentle sets of exercises, and a moral philosophy centered on the values of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, which practitioners take as a guide to their daily lives.

Although rooted in ancient Chinese spiritual tradition, Falun Gong was first taught publicly in China in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of the practice. It spread quickly through word-of-mouth as tens of millions of Chinese citizens found greater health and spiritual well-being through the practice. Today, Falun Gong is practiced in over 80 countries worldwide by people of all ages and backgrounds. It is always taught free of charge by volunteers, and can be practiced individually or in groups.

Falun Dafa practitioners across Michigan dedicate countless hours to their communities in organizing free meditation classes and many community events like parades and city parades and city fairs. They have promoted Chinese culture to the Michigan people by presenting the Shen Yun Performing Arts show in Detroit since 2008. They are also actively working to bring about a peaceful resolution to the persecution of Falun Gong in China, and to improve the future of the world’s most populous country.

In Special Tribute, Therefore, this document is signed and dedicated to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Falun Dafa. May the practitioners, teachers and the entire community know of our congratulations on this notable milestone in their history and wishes for their continued success in the future.

John Pappageorge, State Senator

The Thirteenth District

Marty Knolenberg, State Representative

The Forty-First District

The ninety-sixth Legislature

At Lansing

September 25, 2012