(Clearwisdom.net) On May 9, 2004, the annual Valley of Flowers Parade was held in Florissant, Missouri. Falun Gong practitioners participated in the parade and were warmly welcomed.

The Falun Gong float was uniquely decorated with hand-made lotus flowers and banners. Practitioners on the float demonstrated the Falun Gong exercises. Their slow and smooth hand gestures followed the exercise music beautifully, catching the attention of those in the audience. Practitioners walking in front held banners that read "Falun Dafa", and tablets with the words "Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance". Four beautifully costumed ladies performed a traditional fan dance. The mix of Chinese and Western practitioners in the procession clearly showed that Falun Gong transcends cultures and nations.

The Falun Gong entry was warmly welcomed. Spectators applauded and cheered. It was the third time Falun Gong practitioners have participated in the parade and each time they have had a big impact.

The Mayor of Florissant issued a proclamation to Falun Gong both last year and this year, declaring May as Falun Dafa Month.

Some practitioners participating in the parade said, "We are pleased to see so many people come to understand Falun Gong and benefit from the practice. However, it is painful that so many Falun Gong practitioners in China are being persecuted by Jiang's group. We are going to continue clarifying the truth and hope more kind-hearted people will join our effort to end the persecution."