(Minghui.org) On May 13, 2012, the 20th anniversary of the introduction of Falun Dafa to the public and the 13th World Falun Dafa Day, US Congressman Joseph Heck from Nevada wrote the following letter in celebrating Falun Dafa Day of 2012. He said in the letter, “It is my hope that one day all Falun Gong, both in America and internationally, will be able to practice free of fear or persecution”

Joseph J. Heck
3rd District, Nevada
Congress of the United States
House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515-2803

May 13, 2012

Dear Friends,

It is with great pleasure that I join you in celebrating Falun Dafa Day of 2012. Today practitioners of Falun Dafa come together free of intimidation or persecution to focus on improving personal physical condition and employing varying methods of self improvement.

Falun Dafa began in China in 1992 modeled after the universal idea of Zhen-Shan-Ren meaning truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance. By 1999, millions of Falun Gong had experienced persecution and a denial of basic human rights to practice this peaceful art. In light of the injustice, Falun Dafa practitioners have responded by demonstrating their commitment to Dafa principles through a peaceful campaign to appeal for equality and freedom to practice.

As a physician, I understand the medical benefits derived from slow motion exercises similar to Tai Chi and Yoga. The practice of Falun Dafa is designed not only to help people improve physical condition but also reduce anxiety, strengthen moral standards and stop harmful personal habits or addictions. Those who practice Falun Dafa serve our community by acting as stewards of honesty, courtesy, loyalty and unselfishness.

In response to the discrimination of Falun Dafa in China, the United States Congress has taken action by passing House Resolution 605 asking China to “immediately cease and desist from its campaign to persecute, intimidate, imprison and torture Falun Gong,” It is my hope that one day all Falun Gong, both in America and internationally, will be able to practice free of fear or persecution.

I commend the courage of those who continue to tirelessly campaign for equality and thank those who continue to make Nevada’s celebration of Falun Dafa a safe and peaceful day for all.

Sincerely,

Dr. Joe Heck
Member of Congress