(Minghui.org) For 20 years, Shen Yun Performing Arts has been devoted to reviving traditional Chinese culture and sharing universal values, and has become a global and cultural phenomenon. Its eight touring companies present thousands of performances annually in more than 200 cities across 36 countries, and serve as a vital bridge for cultural exchange between East and West.
Founded in New York in 2006, Shen Yun has dedicated itself to bringing 5,000 years of Chinese civilization to life on stage. Through classical Chinese dance, ethnic and folk dances, live performances featuring traditional Chinese instruments, original symphonic compositions that blend Eastern and Western musical traditions, and state-of-the-art animated backdrops, Shen Yun offers audiences an artistic experience unlike any other. Presenting an entirely new program each year, the company not only showcases the richness of China’s culture but also fosters meaningful dialogue with local communities by highlighting universal values such as compassion, loyalty, tolerance, and the importance of family.
In celebration of Shen Yun’s 20th anniversary—and in recognition of its artistic achievements and its perseverance in the face of ongoing suppression by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)—government officials at various levels across the United States have issued proclamations, certificates of recognition, and letters of support. Many have also extended their best wishes for the success of Shen Yun’s 2026 world tour.
Support From Officials in the San Diego Region
Elected officials in San Diego, California who issued certificates or proclamations to mark the 20th anniversary of Shen YunFirst row, left to right: Escondido Mayor Dane White; California State Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones; California State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson; State Assemblymember Laurie Davies; San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond
Second row, left to right: Mark Arapostathis, Mayor of La Mesa; Joel Anderson, San Diego County Supervisor; John McCann, Mayor of Chula Vista (San Diego County’s second largest city); Rebecca Jones, Mayor of San Marcos; and John Minto, Mayor of Santee
Certificates or proclamations from elected officials in California to mark the 20th anniversary of Shen Yun (Screenshot The Epoch Times)
The mayor of Escondido, California, the city where the California Center for the Arts is located, along with all the city council members, presented Shen Yun with an award, celebrating the company’s 20 years of artistic achievements, cultural contributions, and resilient spirit. They also declared January 27-29, 2026, the dates of the performances, as “Shen Yun Performing Arts Celebration Days” in the city.
California State Senator Minority Leader Brian Jones sent a proclamation to “Honor Shen Yun’s 20th anniversary for their outstanding service in support of freedom of belief and expression.” He stated in the proclamation, “For Shen Yun, the past 20 years is a journey of triumphs over tribulations, and an embodiment of courage and strength which defies Beijing’s continued attempts to interfere.”
According to Shen Yun’s website, the CCP regime has been waging a disinformation war against Shen Yun as the company tours around the world, in an attempt to stop Shen Yun’s efforts to revive traditional culture and expose the CCP’s human rights abuses. In the proclamation, Senator Jones points out that “Shen Yun is still not allowed to perform in China. But outside of China, Shen Yun artists have sparked a cultural renaissance and awakened the universal values that connect the world’s people.”
Other officials in the San Diego area issued certificates or proclamations to mark Shen Yun’s 20th anniversary milestone.
Mayor Rebecca Jones of the City of San Marcos also congratulated Shen Yun on its 20th anniversary: “In the face of tremendous odds, Shen Yun has brought about the revival of the timeless arts and authentic traditions.”
Mayor John McCann of the City of Chula Vista wrote, “We are excited to welcome your return to Southern California. Your 20-year journey is a powerful testament to creativity, resilience, and triumph over adversity.”
“A Heritage of Courage and Wisdom”
Through a certificate of commendation, County Supervisor Jim Desmond, “Extends heartfelt congratulations” to Shen Yun. “Your dedication to the arts has not gone unnoticed, especially in your efforts to show the world the beauty and virtue of China before communism. We are so proud of the artistry you’ve displayed, and we are inspired by how you use your talents to share a heritage of courage and wisdom.”
County Supervisor Joel Anderson praised Shen Yun for, “Uplifting and inspiring audience members throughout San Diego County with the themes of kindness, tolerance, loyalty, and faithfulness presented in Shen Yun shows.”
California Senator Akilah Weber Pierson said in her certificate: “Your commitment to cultural heritage is inspiring, and we celebrate your contributions to keeping these traditions alive.”
“Extraordinary Talent and Discipline”
California Assemblymember Laurie Davies “Congratulates Shen Yun Performing Arts on the production of a culturally inspiring performance, celebrating 20 years of artistic excellence.”
In the certificate, she stated that, “Shen Yun’s achievement reflects the extraordinary talent and discipline of Shen Yun’s performers, musicians, and production team. Shen Yun continues to captivate audiences with a visually stunning and emotionally powerful experience.”
Support From Officials in the Los Angeles Area
From left: California State Assemblymember Tri Ta (District 70); Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis (Chair); California State Assemblymember Phillip Chen (District 59); California State Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (District 40); California State Assemblymember Leticia Castillo (District 58)
As Shen Yun Performing Arts toured multiple cities of the Greater Los Angeles area in Southern California from January 15 to February 8, 2026, local officials sent letters to mark Shen Yun’s 20th anniversary, recognizing its outstanding contributions to arts and culture, and wishing the performances great success.
CA Assemblyman Tri Ta stated that for the past 20 years, “Shen Yun Performing Arts has toured the world, captivating countless audiences with its expressive stories and legends, magnificent costumes, stage backdrops, and original music. Shen Yun not only provides audiences with a visual and auditory feast but also allows them to appreciate the essence of traditional Chinese culture.”
He added that Shen Yun illuminates a world rarely seen by the world, showcasing pre-communist China, from the ancient Yellow Emperor to the prosperous Tang Dynasty and the elegant Qing Dynasty, highlighting the long and rich 5,000-year history of Chinese civilization. Its positive cultural impact is worthy of recognition and praise.
CA Assemblymember Phillip Chen stated in his certificate of recognition, “On behalf of the California State Assembly, it is an honor to welcome the 2026 Shen Yun world tour to LA!
“Through world class artistry, music, & stage technology, Shen Yun continues to captivate audiences in over 200 cities worldwide each year.
“We commend your commitment to cultural excellence, artistic freedom, & the universal values that unite communities across the globe. Best wishes for your continued success!”
Georgia State Representative Welcomes Shen Yun to Atlanta
Georgia State Representative Matt Reeves (center) personally presents a letter to the organizers of the Shen Yun performance in Atlanta. (The Epoch Times)
On January 17, 2026, to welcome Shen Yun, State Representative Reeves personally visited the Lotus Club in Atlanta, a club frequented by members of the Asian community, and presented a congratulatory letter to representatives of the Shen Yun Atlanta performance organizers.
Representative Reeves wrote, “The company has enriched communities across Georgia with its annual tours, including performances in Atlanta and other cities, fostering cultural appreciation, artistic excellence, and cross-cultural understanding among Georgians of all backgrounds; and Shen Yun promotes universal themes of hope, courage, moral integrity, and harmony that resonate deeply with the values cherished by the people of Georgia; and The return of Shen Yun to Georgia stages offers residents an inspiring opportunity to experience the beauty of traditional Chinese heritage in a modern, world-class production.”
Officials in Northern California Commend Shen Yun
Elected officials in northern California who issued certificates or proclamations to Shen Yun for its tour in the area in the 2026 season (The Epoch Times)First row, left to right: Jim Costa, US Representative for California’s 21st Congressional District; Josh Hoover, California State Assemblymember for the 7th District; Rhodesia Ransom, California State Assemblymember for the 13th District; Anamarie Ávila Farías, California State Assemblymember for the 15th District
Second row, left to right: Shanti Landon, Supervisor for District 2 of Placer County; Candace Andersen, Supervisor for District 2 of Contra Costa County; Lisa M. Gillmor, Mayor of Santa Clara; Carmen Montano, Mayor of Milpitas
Third row, left to right: Shanti Landon, Supervisor for District 2 of Placer County; Candace Andersen, Supervisor for District 2 of Contra Costa County; Lisa M. Gillmor, Mayor of Santa Clara; Carmen Montano, Mayor of Milpitas
From December 24, 2025, to March 29, 2026, Shen Yun Performing Arts toured the Greater San Francisco Bay Area in Northern California, presenting 20 performances in six cities. Before and after the performances, officials and dignitaries from the areas where the performances were held sent commendations and congratulatory letters, praising Shen Yun’s contributions to art and culture and wishing the performances great success.
Certificate from Rep. Kevin Kiley of the third Congressional District in California on January 6, the day of Shen Yun show in Folsom, California
The certificate from Rep. Kevin Kiley reads, “California’s third Congressional district commends Shen Yun for bringing its world-renowned celebration of cultural art, dance and music to the community. Congratulations!”
Representative Jim Costa of California’s 21st Congressional District also presented a special congressional commendation, recognizing Shen Yun for enriching the community through its cultural performances.
California Assemblymember Josh Hoover stated in his certificate of recognition, “Through its breathtaking performances of classical Chinese dance and music, Shen Yun beautifully revives 5,000 years of traditional heritage, inspiring audiences and fostering appreciation for universal values that transcend cultures. your artistic excellence and commitment to freedom of expression exemplify the power of art to uplift, unite, and illuminate the human spirit. Congratulations and welcome to Northern California!”
California Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom stated in her certificate of recognition, “Your dedication to artistic excellence, cultural heritage, and the universal values of freedom, compassion, and human dignity continues to inspire audiences from our district and around the world.”
California Assemblymember Anamarie Ávila Farías stated in her certificate of recognition, “Your dedication to reviving and sharing 5,000 years of traditional Chinese heritage through music and dance enriches our communities and promotes understanding across cultures. We commend your artistic excellence, commitment to freedom of expression, and role in celebrating the values of compassion, courage, and beauty that unite us all.”
Supervisor Shanti Landon for District 2 of Placer County wrote, “Shen Yun remains steadfast in its mission to share authentic, traditional Chinese culture with audiences worldwide despite continued attempts by the Chinese Communist Party to suppress their work internationally. Their perseverance reflects the power of the arts to transcend political boundaries and inspire understanding, appreciation, and unity. I commend Shen Yun Performing Arts for its contributions to cultural preservation, artistic innovation, and global dialogue. Northern California is fortunate to host their performances, and our communities benefit greatly from the richness and diversity they bring to the cultural landscape.
“Please accept this letter as an expression of my strong support and appreciation for Shen Yun’s ongoing efforts and for the positive impact they continue to make throughout our region and beyond.”
For more information about Shen Yun performances, please visit: http://shenyun.com/
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