(Minghui.org) May 13, 2024 is the 25^th World Falun Dafa Day and the 32nd anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction. Over 40 dignitaries from New York State sent letters of commendation and congratulations, including leaders of both parties in Congress and the state legislature, leaders of the New York City Council, and county, city, and town leaders.

First row: Members of Assembly - Douglas M. Smith of the 5th District, Karl A. Brabenec of the 98th District, Jodi Giglio of the 2nd District and John K. Mikulin of the 17th District

Second row: Members of Assembly - Will Barclay of the 120th District, Jeffrion L. Aubry of the 35th District, David McDonald of the 14th District, Edward P. Ra of the 19th District, and Andrew D. Hevesi of the 28th District

Third row: Members of Assembly - John T. McDonald III of the 108th District, Michael Durso of the 9th District, Jarrett Gandor of the 7th District, Aileen M Gunther of the 100th District, and Patrick Burke of the 142nd District

State Assembly Proclaims Falun Dafa Day

Four Republican Members of the New York State Assembly—Douglas M. Smith of the 5th District, Minority Whip of the State Assembly, Karl A. Brabenec of the 98th District, Jodi Giglio of the 2nd District, and John K. Mikulin of the 17th District jointly signed a citation, “In recognition of May 13, 2024, as World Falun Dafa Day in the State of New York.”

Citation from New York State Assembly

The Citation reads, “The Assembly of the Great state of New York does desire to recognize all individuals of outstanding achievement and benevolent community service which have rendered significant contributions to the members of our communities.

“Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is a spiritual practice that originated in China in 1992, based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance.

“Falun Dafa has spread to over 100 countries and regions, and has been practiced by millions of people worldwide, promoting health, inner peace, and spiritual growth.

“Falun Dafa has been persecuted by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) since 1999, with millions of practitioners arbitrary detention and torture.

“Falun Dafa practitioners have raised awareness about the human rights abuses in China, and have inspired people around the world to stand up for freedom and justice.

“During these difficult times, Falun Dafa practitioners have touched the lives of residents in New York by offering free Falun Dafa exercise instructions and workshops, cultural programs on television shows, art exhibits and outdoor practice sites.

“May 13th of each year is designated as World Falun Dafa Day to commemorate the introduction of Falun Dafa to the public; and the New York State Assembly recognizes the contributions of Falun Dafa practitioners to our communities, and their commitment to promoting peace, health, and harmony across the world. Now, therefore be it that the Assembly of the Great State of New York takes pause to join in honoring and celebrating World Falun Dafa Day in the State of New York.

“In recognition of May 13th, 2024, as World Falun Dafa Day in the State of New York, we urge all citizens to join in recognizing the contributions of Falun Dafa practitioners, and to support their efforts to promote peace, health, and harmony across the world, as well as their courage and resilience in the face of persecution by the Chinese Communist Party.”

Letter from Assembly Minority Leader

Letter from Will Barclay, Assembly Minority Leader

The letter reads, “It is my honor to commemorate May 13, 2024, as the 25th Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day. Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is an uplifting spiritual and meditation discipline built upon the tenets of “truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance,” which improves the overall health of those who practice.

“With over 100 million people in over 100 countries from various walks of life, Falun Dafa has enriched the lives of many since 1992. New York State is no exception, as the practitioners of Falun Dafa have improved the lives of many through holistic approaches to wellness and healing.

“In New York State, we celebrate diversity and the richness other cultures have contributed. The values of Falun Dafa of “truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance” are shared by New Yorkers. The cultural significance and diversity brought to our communities through this practice cannot be diminished.

“As we reflect on the significance of World Falun Dafa Day, we celebrate the history and cultural enrichment this practice has offered both to New York State and the world.”

Citation from Jeffrion L. Aubry, Speaker Pro Tempore, Member of the Assembly

The Citation reads, “On May 13, 2024, millions of people worldwide will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day. This day marks the 32nd year since Falun Dafa, an ancient meditation practice, was introduced to the public.

“Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, transcends cultural boundaries and contributes to a healthier and more harmonious society.

“I am happy to honor this special day and extend all practitioners every good wish for successful celebration.”

Citation from David G. McDonough, Member of the Assembly

The citation reads, “Whereas, the Assembly of the great State of New York does desire to recognize all institutions of outstanding achievement and benevolent community service which have rendered significant contributions to our communities; and

“Whereas, Falun Dafa encourages people to be thoughtful of others at all times and to be good to people by encouraging the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion and Tolerance; and

“Whereas, the New York State Assembly is especially proud of individuals dedicated to the improvement of mental and physical wellness; now therefore be it

“Resolved, on May 13, 2024, that I, David G. McDonough, Assemblyman from the State of New York, do hereby present this citation celebrating WORLD FALUN DAFA DAY

“On the occasion of the celebration of the 25th Annual World Falun Dafa Day being celebrated by Falun Dafa practitioners, their families and friends -- an institution that is worthy of the esteem of the great state of New York.”

Citation from Edward P. Ra, Member of the Assembly

The citation reads, “WHEREAS, a great state is only as great as those persons who give exemplary service to their community, whether through participation in voluntary programs, through unique personal achievement in their professional or other endeavors, or simply through a lifetime of good citizenry; and

“WHEREAS, it is my desire to honor individuals and organizations which exemplify integrity, commitment and concern for their community and its citizens; and now therefore be it

“RESOLVED, that I, Edward P. Ra, New York State Assemblyman of the 19th District, do hereby present this citation to commemorate May 13, 2024 - World Falun Dafa Day

“In recognition of the 25th anniversary celebration of World Falun Dafa Day where Falun Dafa practitioners contribute to a healthier and more harmonious society by providing Falun Gong exercise instructions, health information workshops, cultural TV programs, art exhibits and outdoor practice exercise sites, thereby, promoting the values of truthfulness, compassion and tolerance to benefit the residents of New York and send a powerful message of solidarity. Since its inception, over 100 million people in over 100 Countries have benefited from Falun Dafa.”

Letter from Andrew D. Hevesi, Member of the Assembly

The letter reads, “I would like to join you all in recognizing May as Falun Dafa Month. Falun Dafa is practiced by over 100 million people worldwide and has a growing following in Queens. The spiritual practice involves slow, gentle and elegant exercises including meditation. The principles of Falun Dafa encourage people to be good, kind and thoughtful of others at all times.

“Practitioners of Falun Dafa have faced persecution simply for practicing their religious beliefs. I am grateful that practitioners in New York are able to do so freely without fear and look forward to the day when all can practice freely worldwide.”

Letter from Ron Kim, Member of the Assembly

The letter reads, “I am writing in acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of the Falun Dafa practitioners of Queens. Living in one of the most diverse areas of the world, they and other New Yorkers have contributed to the richness of the community. With numerous adherents throughout the world, including many New York residents, the practice of Falun Gong has become a growing presence in our state.

“Like many of their fellow residents, they have had an active presence in local neighborhoods, including offering classes in various community locations and participating in annual parades and street fairs. On May 13, 2024 practitioners around the globe will celebrate the 32^nd Anniversary of the public introduction of their practice, in acknowledgment of World Falun Dafa Day, and Falun Gong followers in the New York Metropolitan area have committed countless hours to celebrating this event in our city. On behalf of the New York State Assembly,I offer my best wishes for a successful event.”

Citation from John T. McDonald III, Member of the Assembly

Letter from Michael Durso, Member of the Assembly

Letter from John K. Mikulin, Member of the Assembly

Citation from Patrick Burke, Member of the Assembly

Citation from Jarett Gandolfo, Member of the Assembly

Citation from Aileen M Gunther, Member of the Assembly