(Minghui.org) Falun Gong practitioners in Chicago held a rally, candlelight vigil, and exercise demonstration in front of the Chinese Consulate on July 18, 2026. The events marked the 27th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) persecution against the spiritual discipline, also known as Falun Dafa. Practitioners called for an end to the CCP’s persecution and transnational repression. Many passersby stopped to learn more and to express their support for practitioners.
Practitioners held a rally, candlelight vigil, and group practice in front of the Chinese Consulate in Chicago on July 18, 2026. (Minghui.org)
Illinois State Representative Voices Support for Falun Gong
Diane Blair-Sherlock, a member of the Illinois State House of Representatives, sent a message in support of the rally. She stated that Falun Dafa practitioners have endured transnational repression by the CCP for a long time, which causes her concern. She pointed out that the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects all religions from persecution, and she strongly supports the religious freedom of Falun Gong practitioners, adding that the State of Illinois cannot allow transnational repression.
Practitioner Mr. Tu said at the rally, “Facing the CCP’s persecution, Falun Gong practitioners do not condone violence but peacefully and rationally raise awareness of what is happening to them. Their efforts draw widespread sympathy and support. There are over 10,000 awards, resolutions, proclamations, and support letters from governments and political leaders across the world.”
The CCP’s persecution and transnational repression have also caught the attention of democratic countries. Mr. Tu said, “In 2025, the US House of Representatives passed the bill, the Falun Gong Protection Act. The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations passed Senate Bill S.4009, Falun Gong and the Victims of Forced Organ Harvesting Protection Act, in June this year. This shows that the US Congress is working to protect Falun Gong’s human rights at the federal legislation level.”
Justice Will Prevail
Practitioner Ms. Yang has participated in the candlelight vigils in front of the consulate for the past 11 years. “When I see the portraits of the practitioners who died due to the CCP’s persecution, I feel heartbroken,” she said. “Many of them were young and died for their belief in Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance.”
“My sister-in-law’s mother was detained for nearly one year for practicing Falun Gong. She was forcibly injected with unknown drugs because she would not renounce her belief. She became very weak and emaciated. The injections made her have symptoms of heart failure, and she almost died. For many years, my sister-in-law and her mother lived in fear and uncertainty. They did not know when the next arrest or harassment might happen, all simply because of their belief.”
She said she feels upset whenever she reads the news about practitioners being tortured to death, adding, “No one should be persecuted for their peaceful belief nor deprived of life in such an inhumane way.”
“The perpetrators of these crimes against humanity will be held accountable,” she said. “Justice and conscience will prevail over evil.”
Passersby Support Practitioners
Many people were drawn to the events and offered support and encouragement to practitioners, as well as signing the petition calling on Senators for Illinois to co-sign Senate Bill S.4009.
Jacqueline Melliot (right) and Aaron Losee (left) from Michigan (Minghui.org)
Jacqueline Melliot and Aaron Losee from Michigan stopped and spoke with a practitioner for a long time. When they learned about Falun Gong and its principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, Jacqueline said, “We see beautiful messages about these principles. I support your peaceful protest. Good luck!”
Jacqueline was also interested in the sitting meditation and wanted to learn more. After signing the petition, Aaron said, “We hope our signatures can help those being persecuted.”
Monini Yadar (left) and Isabel Dorman (right) (Minghui.org)
Monini Yadar and Isabel Dorman signed the petition. Isabel was appalled at the terrible suffering of practitioners in China, and said, “This is unbelievable!” Monini added, “This is a peaceful protest. What you’re doing is great!”
Nathan at the rally site. (Minghui.org)
Nathan was rushing by but came back when he saw the group exercise demonstration. He asked a practitioner for more information about the event. After learning about Falun Gong and the CCP’s persecution, he said, “Can I have a group photo with you with your event as a background? I’d like to help spread your message.”
Tivaill Frinti (right) and Brady Fygering (left) (Minghui.org)
Tivaill Frinti and Brady Fygering from Missouri were shocked to learn about the persecution. Tivaill said, “Communism is evil. A system like that should end.” Brady added, “The persecution and forced organ harvesting are terrible. Everyone should help stop the atrocities of communism.” Both of them signed the petition.
Jon Jones of Chicago (Minghui.org)
Jon Jones said that he likes Chinese culture and commended the candlelight vigil. He was appalled to see the information on the display boards, saying, “Such persecution is horrible. I hope it ends as soon as possible.”
Kayla Pietro (Minghui.org)
Kayla Pietro recently moved to the area and said, “This is an unforgettable event.” After signing the petition, she added, “I felt sad after hearing about the persecution. I like the candlelight vigil; it’s very meaningful. You have my full support. I am happy to contribute by signing and hope it helps.”
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Category: July 20 Events
