(Minghui.org) Several elected officials in Pennsylvania have issued letter or citations to local practitioners to mark World Falun Dafa Day, which falls on every May 13.

Pennsylvania State Senator Anthony H. Williams, representing the State Senate; State Representative Mary Isaacson, representing the State House of Representatives; and Philadelphia City Council Member Mark Squilla and Council President Kenyatta Johnson, representing the Philadelphia City Council, jointly recognized Falun Dafa and Dafa practitioners for their positive contributions to society.

From left to right: Pennsylvania State Senator Anthony H. Williams, State Representative Mary Isaacson, Philadelphia City Council Member Mark Squilla, and Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson (Image composite by Minghui.org; photos courtesy of officials’ official websites).

They commended Mr. Li Hongzhi, founder of Falun Dafa (also known as Falun Gong), for introducing the practice to the public and for his contribution to world peace and freedom of religion.

World Falun Dafa Day was first celebrated in 2000 to mark the anniversary of the day, May 13, 1992, on which Master Li first introduced Falun Dafa.

Congratulations From Pennsylvania Senate

Pennsylvania State Senator Anthony H. Williams, representing the State Senate, issued a statement to the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association.

Congratulations From Pennsylvania Senate (Minghui.org)

The statement reads, “WHEREAS, The Senate of Pennsylvania takes great pride in recognizing organizations and individuals which, through adherence to the highest standards of service, enrich and improve the lives of families and individuals within their communities and contribute toward a better and more productive society; and

“WHEREAS, Falun Dafa, also called Falun Gong, is a mind-body practice for spiritual advancement guided by the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion & Forbearance. It consists of five easy-to-learn, gentle exercises including sitting meditation. Free to learn and practice, it is embraced by people of all ages from all walks of life in over 100 countries. The principal book of the practice, Zhuan Falun, has been translated into 50 languages.

“WHEREAS, rooted in ancient Chinese spiritual tradition, Falun Gong was first taught publicly in China on May 13, 1992, by Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of the practice, a four-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee and the recipient of Freedom House's International Religious Freedom Award.

“WHEREAS, Falun Dafa Practitioners strive to adopt these qualities in their daily life through meditation, and the study of moral principles. 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 offer free exercise instruction through free workshops and outdoor exercises sites. have profoundly touched the lives of many local residents. Many have found Falun Dafa to be life-enhancing and even lifesaving.”

Citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives

State Representative Mary Isaacson, representing the State House of Representatives, issued the citation to Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association.

Citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives (Minghui.org)

The citation reads, “Whereas, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the House of Representatives take great pride in joining in the numerous Civic and Cultural celebrations.”

“Whereas, the Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association again during this special anniversary pauses to recognize the bravery and contributions of Falun Dafa practitioners, like many in our country who came to this country fleeing persecution in their native country and seeking freedom of religion, hope, compassion and tolerance.

“Now therefore, the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania joins in this celebration of the human spirit and desire for freedom and peace around the world and shares with them the sense of loss and persecution their predecessors endured and continue to do so;

“And directs, that a copy of this Citation sponsored by the Honorable MaryLouise Isaacson be transmitted to the Greater Falun Dafa Association for their annual celebration.”

Citation From Philadelphia City Council

Philadelphia City Council Member Mark Squilla and Council President Kenyatta Johnson, representing the Philadelphia City Council, issued a citation.

Citation from Philadelphia City Council (Minghui.org)

The citation reads, “Whereas, Since 1992, over 100 million people worldwide have become healthier, happier, and more altruistic through their practice of Falun Dafa, bringing benefits to societies around the globe. The practice has transcended clans, ethnicity, and education level.”

The citation also mentioned that Falun Gong practitioners have introduced the practice and its core values of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, to local residents.

The citation ends by expressing respect and gratitude to Mr. Li for his bringing truly ancient traditional Chinese cultural values to the people of Pennsylvania and across the world.