Pennsylvania, U.S.: Falun Dafa Warmly Received at Philadelphia's Independence Day Celebration
(Minghui.org) The birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia, held a series of celebrations around July 4, 2023, the 247th Independence Day, including a Celebration of Freedom ceremony, a grand parade, concerts and fireworks. Falun Dafa practitioners were invited to participate in the Avenue of the Arts block party on July 1st and the Salute to America Independence Day Parade on July 4th.
Practitioners participate in the Independence Day Parade in Philadelphia
Parade goers receive Falun Dafa introductory flyers.
Practitioners’ waist drum dance and lotus flower team brought traditional Chinese culture to the celebration and won warm applause.
Bourget, a tourist from France, loves the bright costumes and beautiful music of the Falun Dafa procession.
Local resident Scott said he enjoyed the unique cultural spirit brought by practitioners.
Practitioners demonstrate the Falun Dafa exercises on a stage during the Avenue of the Arts block party.
Crowds of people visit the Falun Dafa booth.
Visitors of the Avenue of the Arts block party were fascinated by the Falun Dafa exercises. Many learned them on the spot.
Russell Daniels (second from left) enjoys the tranquility brought by Falun Dafa exercises.
Attorney Melina Dominguez Cifuentes said she plans to continue doing the exercises and looks forward to the change it will bring to her life.
Marriam Barcelone enjoys the meditation and said she plans to join the group exercise session on the weekend.
Background: What Is Falun Dafa?
Falun Dafa (also known as Falun Gong) was first introduced to the public by Mr. Li Hongzhi in Changchun, China, in 1992. The spiritual discipline is now practiced in over 100 countries and regions worldwide. Millions of people who have embraced the teachings, which are based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, and have learned the five exercises, have experienced improved health and well-being.