(Minghui.org) Every 4^th of July Falun Gong practitioners throughout the U.S. participate in various local events. As they celebrate the nation's Independence Day, they take the opportunity to remind people of the preciousness of freedom, as millions in China are persecuted for their faith. This report covers two Independence Day parades held in Washington and Texas.

Seattle, Washington

The annual Freedom Festival Parade in Bothell is one of the most popular community activities in the greater Seattle area. More than 100 groups participated in this year's parade.

Falun Gong practitioners' entry was warmly received during the Freedom Festival Parade in Bothell, Washington.

The practitioners' Tang waist drum team was a hit with the crowd. The parade host introduced the team and explained that the drum dates back to the Tang Dynasty, with a 2500-year of history, and that Chinese people play it during New Year celebrations.

The host also told the audience that, although Falun Gong has been persecuted for 20 years, the practitioners in China still bravely uphold their belief.

“We admire their amazing courage and persistence. Let's celebrate the universal principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance with them!” he said.

Many Chinese in the audience were surprised and happy to see Falun Gong practitioners' presentation of traditional Chinese culture. Some asked about the local practice site.

“This is the first time I've seen such an excellent waist drum performance!” one Chinese man exclaimed. “And it's in America!”

An elderly man from Shanghai told practitioners that he knows about the persecution. “China has no hope if the Communist Party does not collapse,” he said. “I salute Falun Gong! Please keep up the good work, and let more people know the truth.”

He added, “I support the kind people who are persecuted in China. Please put my words on your website.”

Westerners Condemn the Persecution

A woman named Bonnie said that she first heard about the persecution years ago, but she didn't realize it was still going on. She took some information about Falun Gong for her daughter, who wanted to practice meditation. Her son, a professor at the University of Washington, believes that the communist Party has fabricated many lies to slander Falun Gong.

“The government should restore Falun Gong's reputation,” the professor said.

Another spectator, Rashmi Gupta, said he'd heard about China's state-sanctioned organ harvesting crimes. “It's so evil,” he said. He signed the petition that requests a resolution be passed to condemn the forced organ harvesting.

“My family supports you,” he said.

City of Plano, Texas

Practitioners from Plano have participated in the city's Independence Day parade for several years, and have won many awards.

The spectators learned from the host's introduction that Falun Gong was founded by Mr. Li Hongzhi and was introduced to the public in 1992. The classes are free of charge, and everyone is welcome.

Practitioners colorful entry in Plano's Independence Day parade was applauded by parade goers.

Related report in Chinese:http://www.minghui.org/mh/articles/2019/7/9/华盛顿州学员参加波塞尔自由节游行-389793.html