Mayor John Street's Letter Greeting the SOS Marchers in Philadelphia

Mayor John F. Street

City of Philadelphia

Office of the Mayor

Room 215 City Hall

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-3295

July 11, 2001

Greetings:

Falun Gong, a traditional Chinese spiritual practice that consists of exercise, meditation, and teachings, is based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. People of any age, fitness level or background can participate, and all of its teachings are free.

Since 1999, the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party has implemented a crackdown against Falun Gong, which they have deemed a threat to their country. Those who practice Falun Gong in China are forced to choose between their spiritual beliefs and their jobs, homes, families, and education.

Hundreds of people throughout the United States are journeying to Washington, D.C. from all over the country to raise awareness of the condition of Falun Gong practitioners in China. On this month-long walk, participants from Boston and New York will pass through Philadelphia on July 11, 2001 on their way to Washington, D.C. Many Philadelphians will join this walk to call for a peaceful end to the persecution of Falun Gong members in China.

I salute all of those who are participating in this humanitarian effort and join in their fervent hopes that those who practice Falun Gong, whether in China or in any other country throughout the world, may be allowed to participate in its beliefs without fear.

With kind regards, I am

Signature

John F. Street, Esq.

Mayor