(Minghui.org) May 13 is a very special day for Falun Dafa practitioners around the world: World Falun Dafa Day and the birthday of Falun Dafa's founder Master Li Hongzhi. This year, the 15th annual World Falun Dafa Day, marks the 22nd anniversary of Falun Dafa's public introduction. Since the first celebration of World Falun Dafa Day 14 years ago, the holiday has come to be recognized and celebrated by practitioners and non-practitioners alike.

On the eve of World Falun Dafa Day, the Pennsylvania State Government and local governments in Pennsylvania recognized the Pennsylvania Falun Dafa Association and Master Li, and congratulated this upcoming celebration.

U.S. Senator Patrick J. Toomey issued special recognitions to Master Li Hongzhi and the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association on behalf of the U.S. Senate, commemorating World Falun Dafa Day and the 22nd Anniversary of Falun Dafa's public introduction.

House Representative Allyson Schwartz sent a letter of greeting to the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association. In the letter Representative Schwartz stated, “I'm honored to extend my greetings to the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association during Asian-Pacific Heritage month recognizing the contributions of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history...The cultural fabric of our nation is enhanced when each of our many ethnic communities demonstrates their commitment to their heritage and we cherish the freedom to recognize each community's contribution.”

Brandon Neuman, House Representative for Pennsylvania, issued a citation stating, “The House of Representatives of Pennsylvania takes great pride in recognizing the Great Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association.

“The House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania joins with citizens across this Commonwealth in commemorating May 13, 2014 as World Falun Dafa Day and salutes the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association as it celebrates during May which is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month and offers best wishes in the years to come.”

Deep Gratitude and Respect for Master Li Hongzhi

Sponsored by J.P. Miranda, a citation by the Pennsylvanian House of Representatives expressed deep gratitude and respect to Master Li Hongzhi. “Since its founding, Falun Dafa has been practiced by hundreds of millions of people throughout the world who have garnered the benefits of improved health and moral standards and a deepened understanding of life, humanity and the universe... To his great credit, Mr. Hongzhi has been nominated for a Nobel Prize on four occasions and for the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, and he is the recipient of numerous awards and commendations... Through his many initiatives to benefit his community and by his personal example, Mr. Hongzhi clearly reflects the true spirit and mission of this Commonwealth... The House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania congratulates Li Hongzhi upon his richly deserved recognition; affirmatively states that he is a shining example of community spirit whose many contributions are worthy of deep gratitude and respect.”

Sponsored by Representative Mike Turzai, a citation by the Pennsylvanian House of Representatives recognized the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association. It states, “Throughout its history, the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association has made inestimable contributions to the welfare of society through a sense of fellowship and through its programs, which are designed to enhance the quality of life for all. A succession of dedicated leaders and members have made this possible, keeping ever mindful of the noble maxims of the organization... The House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania congratulates the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association upon this momentous occasion; offers best wishes for continued growth and success in the years to come.”

Falun Gong Practitioners Improving the Future of China

Michael Nutter, mayor of Philadelphia, issued a proclamation on 2014 World Falun Dafa Day. Mayor Nutter stated, “Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, strives each day to maintain an environment of tolerance and compassion for all people. World Falun Dafa Day is a time for our City to celebrate the attributes that we hold dear and recognize those who practice Falun Dafa in China and around the world.”

The proclamation further reads, “Falun Dafa practitioners in the United States dedicate countless hours to their communities in organizing free meditation classes, Chinese cultural productions of music and dance, and participated in local events. They are also actively working to bring about a peaceful resolution to the persecution of Falun Gong in China and improve the future of the world's most populous country.”

“Falun Dafa Provides a Source of Strength in the Face of Oppression”

Allegheny County Council President John P. DeFazio wrote in the County Council's proclamation for World Falun Dafa Day, “To the people of China, Falun Dafa provides a source of strength in the face of oppression.”

The following are the complete recognitions received from governments offices of Pennsylvania.

UNITED STATES SENATE This Certificate of Special Recognition is presented to The Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association Commemorating World Falun Dafa Day and the 22 th Anniversary of Falun Dafa

Patrick J. Toomey United States Senator

May 13, 2014

UNITED STATES SENATE This Certificate of Special Recognition is presented to Mr. Li Hongzhi Founder of Falun Dafa

Patrick J. Toomey United States Senator

May 13, 2014

House of Representatives Washington D.C. 20515 May 13, 2014

ALLYSON Y. SCHWARTZ 13th District of Pennsylvania

Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association World Falun Dafa Day May 13, 2014

Dear Friends,

I'm honored to extend my greetings to the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association during Asian-Pacific Heritage month recognizing the contributions of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history.

The cultural fabric of our nation is enhanced when each of our many ethnic communities demonstrates their commitment to their heritage and we cherish the freedom to recognize each community's contribution. This year, the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association, during the week surrounding May 13, celebrates the 22 nd anniversary of the introduction of Falun Dafa to the public, cherishing the ability to freely practice this spiritual discipline and celebrating its found, Mr. Li Hongzhi.

As you celebrate your community and its teachings, I wish you all happiness and prosperity.

Sincerely

Allyson Y. Schwartz Member of Congress

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania The House of Representatives Citation

Whereas, The House of Representatives of Pennsylvania takes great pride in recognizing those citizens who, through their exceptional achievements, brings a notable measure of price to themselves, their communities and this Commonwealth; and

Whereas, Li Hongzhi is being honored upon the celebration of World Falun Dafa Day, which will be celebrated on May 13, 2014, upon the 22 nd anniversary of the founding of the practice; and

Whereas, Mr. Hongzhi founded the practice of Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, in China in 1992, The practice is a high-level mind, body and spirit cultivation practice consisting of meditation and five gentle sets of exercises and teaching guided by the characteristics of the universe, including truthfulness, compassion and forbearance. Since its founding, Falun Dafa has been practiced by hundreds of millions of people throughout the world who have garnered the benefits of improved health and moral standards and a deepened understanding of life, humanity and the universe. The practice was introduced to Philadelphia in 1998, and since then, dozens of free introductory workshops have been held in public places across Pennsylvania. To his great credit, Mr. Hongzhi has been nominated for a Nobel Prize on four occasions and for the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, and he is the recipient of numerous awards and commendations. Any definition of a full and productive life must include services to others. Through his many initiatives to benefit his community and by his personal example, Mr. Hongzhi clearly reflects the true spirit and mission of this Commonwealth.

Now therefore, the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania congratulates Li Hongzhi upon his richly deserved recognition; affirmatively states that he is a shining example of community spirit whose many contributions are worthy of deep gratitude and respect;

And directs that this citation, sponsored by the Honorable J. P. Miranda on May 1, 2014, be transmitted to Li Hongzhi, PO Box 42547, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19101.

J. P. Miranda, Sponsor Samuel H. Smith, Speaker of the House Attest: Anthony Frank Barbush, Chief Clerk of the House

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania The House of Representatives Citation

Whereas, the House of Representatives of Pennsylvania takes great pride in recognizing the Great Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association as it celebrates May 13, 2014 as “World Falun Dafa Day” in Pittsburgh, PA; and

Whereas, May 13th marks the 22nd Anniversary of the public introduction of the ancient practice of Falun Dafa, as it was the first taught in China in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi. All Falun Dafa practitioners celebrate the first day that this peaceful meditation practice was introduced to the public; and

Whereas, Falun Dafa (also called Falun Gong) is a high level body-mind-spirit cultivation practice consisting of meditation, five gentle sets of exercises and teaching guided by the characteristics of the universe- Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance.

Now therefore, the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania joins with citizens across this Commonwealth in commemorating May 13, 2014 as World Falun Dafa Day and salutes the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association as it celebrates during May which is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month and offers best wishes in the years to come;

And Directs, that a copy of this citation, sponsored by Representatives Brandon P. Neuman on May 13, 2014 be transmitted to Xiaoyan Liu on behalf of the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association (in Pittsburgh), 108 Candle Ridge Drive, Wexford, PA 15090.

Brandon Neuman Pennsylvania House of Representatives 48th Legislative District

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania The House of Representatives Citation

Whereas, The House of Representatives of Pennsylvania takes great pride in recognizing those organization which contribute to the benefit of their communities and ultimately to all the citizens of this Commonwealth; and

Whereas, The Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association is being honored as its celebrates World Falun Dafa Day in Pittsburgh on May 13, 2014, and

Whereas, The Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association celebrates the day that all Falun Dafa practitioners around the world celebrate the first day that this peaceful meditation practice was introduced to the public. Founded by Li Hongzhi, the Falun Dafa discipline, which comes from ancient Chinese culture, consists of five gentle exercises and meditation. At its core are the principles of truthfulness, compassion and forbearance. Throughout its history, the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association has made inestimable contributions to the welfare of society through a sense of fellowship and through its programs, which are designed to enhance the quality of life for all. A succession of dedicated leaders and members have made this possible, keeping ever mindful of the noble maxims of the organization.

Now therefore, the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania congratulates the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association upon this momentous occasion; offers best wishes for continued growth and success in the years to come;

And directs that a copy of this citation, sponsored by the Honorable Mike Turzai on April 29, 2014, be transmitted to the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association.

Mike Turzai, Sponsor Samuel H. Smith, Speaker of the House Attest: Anthony Frank Barbush, Chief Clerk of the House

City of Philadelphia Citation Recognizing May 13, 2014 as World Falun Dafa Day

The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to join with the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association in recognizing May 13, 2014 as World Falun Dafa Day.

Whereas, Falun Dafa, also called Falun Gong, is a peaceful spiritual practice rooted in traditional Chinese Culture. It consists of meditation, five 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; and

Whereas, Although rooted in ancient Chinese spiritual tradition, Falun Gong was first taught publicly in China in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi, four-time Nobel Prize nominee and 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 background. It is always taught free of charge by volunteers, and can be practiced individually or in groups; and

Whereas, Since 1992, over 100 million people worldwide have become healthier, happier and more altruistic through their practice of Falun Dafa, bringing untold benefits to societies around the globe; and

Whereas, Falun Dafa practitioners in the United States dedicate countless hours to their communities in organizing free meditation classes, Chinese cultural productions of music and dance, and participated in local events. They are also actively working to bring about a peaceful resolution to the persecution of Falun Gong in China and improve the future of the world's most populous country.

Therefore, By virtue of this Citation, the Council of the City of Philadelphia does hereby join with the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association in recognizing May 13, 2014 as World Falun Dafa Day. We extend the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body, and thank you for your work toward enhancing the physical and spiritual well-being of our City and region.

CITY OF PHILADELPHIA MICHAEL.A.NUTTER

PROCLAMATION

Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, strives each day to maintain an environment of tolerance and compassion for all people. World Falun Dafa Day is a time for our City to celebrate the attributes that we hold dear and recognize those who practice Falun Dafa in China and around the world.

World Falun Dafa Day 2014 will mark the 22nd anniversary of the introduction of one of the world's most widespread mediation and cultivation practices. Since 1992, more than one hundred million people worldwide have claimed they have become healthier, happier, and more altruistic through their practice of Falun Dafa.

Rooted in Chinese spiritual tradition, Falun Dafa, also called Falun Gong, was first taught publicly in China in 1992 by Li Hongzhi, the founder of the practice. Today, Falun Dafa is practiced in over 120 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 combines meditation techniques with exercises that are meant to enhance health and promote general well-being. The practice was outlawed in China in 1999. In March of 2010, the U.S. House of Representatives passed House Resolution 605 to urge Chinese Government to end its decade-long campaign against Falun Dafa, expressing solidarity with those who were being persecuted for the practice.

THEREFORE...

I, Michael A. Nutter, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, May 13, 2014 to be WORLD FALUN DAFA DAY

in Philadelphia, and commend the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association for organizing this event to recognize those who fight for the right to practice the teaching of Falun Dafa.

Michael A. Nutter Mayor

Allegheny County Council Proclamation

Whereas, Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is an advanced self-cultivation practice that refines the mind and body through five gentle sets of exercises and teachings, meditation and the three fundamental principles of truthfulness, compassion and forbearance; and

Whereas, millions of people in over 100 countries have obtained improved health, newfound energy, mental clarity and peace of mind as a result of practicing Falun Dafa; and

Whereas, Mr. Li Hongzhi, founder and Master of Falun Dafa, first taught the practice to the general public in 1992 in northeast China. He is the recipient of numerous awards and citations for his efforts to promote human betterment; and

Whereas, to the people of China, Falun Dafa provides a source of strength in the face of oppression; though the practice is banned in its country of origin, practitioners persevere in the pursuit of their spiritual beliefs; and

Whereas, local volunteers have been actively involved in the community, providing Falun Dafa exercise instruction and cultural awareness at numerous community events;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Allegheny County Council, does hereby declare May 13, 2014 as Falun Dafa Day Allegheny County, and we recognize this day as the 22nd anniversary of the public introduction of Falun Dafa.

Sponsored by Council President John P. DeFazio, and presented this 13th day of May 2014.

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Category: Dafa Day Recognition