Flag Flown at Capitol Building as U.S. Congressional Members Honor World Falun Dafa Day

(Minghui.org) May 13, 2025 is the 26^th World Falun Dafa Day and the 33^rd anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction. This day is also the birthday of Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of Falun Dafa. Members of the U.S. Congress commend Falun Dafa and its founder.

The U.S. flag was raised twice at the Capitol in honor of Mr. Li on World Falun Dafa Day. 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. Its teachings are based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Millions of people who have embraced the teachings and exercises experienced improved health and well-being.

The U.S. flag was flown in the U.S. Capitol in honor of Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of Falun Dafa, on World Falun Dafa Day.

The U.S. Flag Raised Twice in the Capitol in Honor of Mr. Li on World Falun Dafa Day

Under the request of Senator Chris Coons, the U.S. flag was raised in the Capitol in honor of Mr. Li.

Chris Coons, a Democratic U.S. Senator from Delaware, presented Mr. Li Hongzhi with an American flag that was flown on the U.S. Capitol on May 13, and issued a certificate.

The national flag that has flown over the U.S. Capitol is presented to an individual or group as an honor, and a certificate is also issued. The certificate for presenting the national flag to Mr. Li Hongzhi reads, “This is to certify that the accompanying flag was flown over the United States Capitol on May 13, 2025. At the request of the Honorable Christopher A. Coons, United States Senator, this flag was flown in honor of Mr. Li Hongzhi, Founder of Falun Dafa. This day marks the 33rd anniversary of introducing Falun Dafa to the public in China by Mr. Hongzhi and is celebrated by millions around the world as World Falun Dafa Day.”

Sarah McBride, Congresswoman from Delaware, presented Mr. Li Hongzhi with an American flag that was flown on the U.S. Capitol on May 13, and issued a certificate.

Congresswoman Sarah McBride from Delaware also requested the flag-raising in the Capitol to honor Mr. Li. The certificate reads, “This is to certify that the accompanying flag was flown over the United States Capitol on May 13, 2025. This flag was flown at the request of the Honorable Sarah McBride, Member of Congress, in recognition of the Founder of Falun Dafa, Mr. Li Hongzhi, on World Falun Dafa Day.”

Senators Appreciate Falun Dafa Practitioners

Democratic Senator Van Hollen from Maryland and his citation to Falun Dafa Association of Washington, D.C.

Senator Van Hollen issued a citation, which reads, “In recognition of its efforts to promote spiritual wellness and human rights, with gratitude for its dedication to truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance, with appreciation for all it does to touch the lives of others, and with best wishes for its continued success.”

Democratic Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester from Delaware and her letter

Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester from Delaware sent a greeting letter, which reads, “This year’s recognition marks the 33rd anniversary of Falun Dafa's introduction to the public in China. Since then, this practice has spread and brought the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance to Delaware and brought together individuals from all cultures and backgrounds.

“I again thank you all for your work and contributions to the First State and the Greater Philadelphia region. I wish you all continued success and hope that today's recognition is uplifting, empowering, and continues to advance the principles of Falun Dafa.”

Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas posts news about World Falun Dafa Day celebrations on social media.

Senator Ted Cruz from Texas posted information about World Falun Dafa Day celebrations on social media on May 13. He wrote, “China’s persecution of Falun Gong practitioners is an attack on religious freedom and human rights. It’s long past time to dismantle the CCP’s state-sponsored organ harvesting industry.”

Members of the House of Representatives Mark World Falun Dafa Day

Congressman Patrick Ryan from New York issued a Congressional Record.

Congressman Patrick Ryan issued a Congressional Record. The record reads, “Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 26th Annual World Falun Dafa Day, a celebration of a practice that has touched the lives of millions around the world and right here in New York’s Hudson Valley.

“Since its public introduction in May 1992 in Changchun, China, Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, has grown into a global movement focused on improving both mind and body through gentle exercises, meditation, and the core values of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. These principles continue to resonate deeply with those who seek peace, clarity, and personal growth.

“In communities across New York's 18th Congressional District, Falun Dafa practitioners have long shared their experiences and teachings through festivals, cultural events, and public demonstrations. Each May, practitioners gather with friends and family to honor Falun Dafa’s legacy with music, dance, and community storytelling—reminding us of the importance of spiritual freedom and mutual respect.

“I am proud to recognize World Falun Dafa Day and commend the many individuals in our community who continue to share its values and traditions. May this celebration continue to inspire understanding, health, and harmony for years to come.”

Video: Remarks from Rep. Chris Smith

Congressman Chris Smith from New Jersey, Co-Chair of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, said in his video, “Happy World Falun Dafa Day to each and every one of you! I want to thank you for your perseverance, especially in light of the severe repression by the Chinese Communist Party. We stand in solidarity with your right to practice as you see fit, and I applaud you for your tolerance and for your goodness. And again, I just want to wish you the happiest day today.”

Rep. Elise Stefanik, chair of the House Republican Conference, and her certificate

Rep. Elise Stefanik wrote, “This Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition presented to the Upstate New York practitioners of Falun Dafa, in commemoration of the 26th anniversary of World Falun Data Day and 33 years of perseverance in the face of persecution by the Chinese Communist Party.”

Congressman Paul D. Tonko and his letter

Congressman Paul D. Tonko stated in his letter, “I would like to take this opportunity to join you in celebrating the 26th Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day. This event is a time to recognize both the extraordinary work that the Upstate New York Falun Dafa Association has done in the Capital Region, and its efforts to raise awareness of the significance of Falun Gong and other meditation techniques. It is without doubt that Falun Gong plays a prominent role in improving a person’s mental and spiritual wellbeing.

“The Falun Dafa Association has had a long-lasting and undeniable impact on the Capital Region and greater New York State. The organization conducts Falun Gong workshops and educational programs free of charge for Capital Region residents. In addition, your organization continues to offer recreational activities, such as art exhibits and television programs, to promote the importance of these spiritual practices. I thank you for your continued efforts to uplift and rejuvenate the spirits of New Yorkers.

“Please accept my sincerest congratulations and gratitude for the remarkable work that your organization has carried out in the Capital Region to honor the 26th World Falun Dafa Day. As you continue to leave your mark on the lives of the region's citizens, know that your work has been hugely impactful in promoting the wellbeing of residents of the 20th Congressional District and New York State. This celebration allows us to honor and recognize that exceptional legacy.”

Video: Remarks from Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton stated in her video, “I wish you a happy World Falun Dafa Day. As a former assistant legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union, Constitution Lawyer, and lifelong civil rights advocate, I am a proud supporter of Falun Dafa. Falun Dafa is a peaceful religion that teaches meditation-based self-improvement.

“Falun Dafa practitioners have been persecuted by the Chinese government. I have heard first-hand account of torture, mutilation, and forced detention from my constituents who are Falun Dafa practitioners that were able to escape the regime.

“The House of Representatives recently passed the Falun Gong Protection Act, a bill with bipartisan support that I co-sponsored. This is a step in the right direction to protect the lives of the innocent Falun Dafa practitioners who live under the Chinese government’s regime.

“I will continue to work with colleagues in the House and Senate to enact the Falun Gong Protection Act and to protect Falun Dafa practitioners across the world.”

“Happy 26th World Falun Dafa Day!”

Congressman David P. Joyce issues a Certificate of Congressional Recognition and Achievement.

Congressman Greg Landsman and his proclamation

The proclamation reads, “World Falun Dafa Day is celebrated by thousands across the country and millions around the world to commemorate the public introduction of Falun Dafa by its founder, Li Hongzhi, in China on May 13th, 1992.”

“Falun Dafa is an uplifting mind-body practice centered upon the universal principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, transcending cultural boundaries and contributing to a healthier, more harmonious society.”

Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown issues a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.

The Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition reads, “For 33 years, World Falun Dafa Day has been a champion of preserving and promoting the Buddhist culture and tradition. Through their unwavering dedication to strengthening the identity of the Buddhist tradition, they have honored the practices core values of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance. Their efforts to ensure that the our district remains culturally vibrant and diverse are truly commendable, and we are grateful for their contributions to our community.”