U.S. Officials at All Levels Recognize World Falun Dafa Day and Master Li Hongzhi

(Minghui.org) May 13 marked the 26th World Falun Dafa Day and the 33rd anniversary since the practice was introduced to the public. The day coincides with the birthday of Mr. Li Hongzhi, founder of Falun Dafa. United States officials from both parties at all levels issued proclamations to honor Falun Dafa and Master Li.

In particular, a U.S. flag was raised at the U.S. Capital on May 13 to honor Mr. Li for introducing Falun Dafa to the public. Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, consists of five sets of gentle exercises and the guiding principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance. Since it was introduced to the public on May 13, 1992, Falun Dafa is practiced by more than 100 million people in over 100 countries and has benefited people from all ethnic groups.

Proclamations from Five Governors

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a special recognition to Mr. Li, and had the U.S. flag flown in his honor at the capitol in Harrisburg.

Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania, issued a special recognition on May 13 that states, “I am honored to present you with our Country’s beloved flag, which was flown over the Capitol in Harrisburg on the 13th day of May, 2025.”

Proclamation from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz

Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota, also stated in a proclamation, “The State of Minnesota recognizes the leaders and practitioners of Falun Dafa for their dedication to cultural exchange, community service, and the promotion of health and wellness through the principles of Truth, Compassion, and Forbearance. With appreciation, this certificate is presented in honor of Falun Dafa Day.”

Congratulatory letter from Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe

A congratulatory letter was issued by Mike Kehoe, Governor of Missouri, “It is my honor to welcome as you gather at the Missouri State Capitol on May 13, 2025, in celebration of World Falun Dafa Day.

“Falun Dafa – a traditional Chinese meditation and spiritual practice – has transcended cultural and national boundaries to bring better health and inner peace to millions around the world, including right here in Missouri. Its teachings, centered on truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance, resonate with the very value that we hold dear as Missourians.

“Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with Falun Dafa practitioners in Missouri. I’ve been struck by their sincerity, gentleness, and unwavering commitment to their beliefs – even in the face of hardship. Their quiet strength and peaceful spirit are a testament to the values they hold dear.”

Citation from Maryland Governor Wes Moore

Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland, wrote, “Because of your demonstration of high integrity and ability, meriting our great trust and respect, we are most pleased to award you the Governor’s Citation in appreciation of your outstanding services to the citizens of this State”

Proclamation from Oregon Governor Tina Kotek

Tina Kotek, Governor of Oregon, wrote in her proclamation that honors Falun Dafa Day, “Falun Dafa transcends cultural and racial boundaries and contributes to the universal dream of a peaceful, tolerant, and more compassionate society… Falun Dafa practitioners’ determination and courage to stand up for the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Tolerance in the face of severe persecution has shown the world the value of life and preciousness of human dignity.”

Support from New York State Legislature

New York State Senate Resolution No. 243 to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day

Sponsored by Dean Murray (first from left, top row) the resolution had 9 co-sponsors: top row from left are Jacob Ashby, George M. Borrello, Joseph A. Griffo, and Andrew J. Lanza. Bottom row from left are: Jack M. Martins, Peter Oberacker, Thomas F. O’Mara, Steven D. Rhoads and James Tedisco.

More than twelve New York State Representatives issued proclamations or sent congratulatory letters to honor World Falun Dafa and to thank Mr. Li.

World Falun Day celebration proclamations and congratulatory letters were received from: top row from left Douglas M. Smith, Karl A. Brabenec, Jodi Giglio, John K. Mikulin, and David G. McDonough; middle row from left are Michael J. Fitzpatrick, John T McDonald III, Edward P. Ra, Catalina Cruz, and Ron Kim. Bottom row from left are John K. Mikulin, Michael Durso, Jarett Gandolfo, Paula Elaine Kay, and Noah Burroughs.

State Senate and House Resolutions from Texas

The Texas Senate and House of Representatives passed SR512 and HR1102, respectively, on May 13, 2025, to honor World Falun Dafa Day.

Texas State Senator Angela Paxton and State Representative Tom Oliverson

Introduced by State Senator Angela Paxton, SR512 states, “Followers of Falun Dafa constitute an important part of the diverse cultural fabric of Texas, and Falun Dafa Day provides a fitting opportunity to recognize their devotion to the teachings of their faith and to the ideals of peace and freedom.”

State Senator Angela Paxton (in white, first row) and Falun Dafa practitioners

“Falun Dafa emphasizes the attainment of spiritual growth through the study of Falun Dafa teachings and through gentle exercises and meditation; its teachings encourage learners to let go of unhealthy attachments as they strive to attune their lives to the universal qualities of truth, compassion, and forbearance,” the resolution added.

Introduced by Representative Tom Oliverson, HR1102 states, “Falun Dafa emphasizes the attainment of spiritual growth through the study of Falun Dafa teachings and through gentle exercises and meditation; its teachings encourage learners to let go of unhealthy attachments as they strive to attune their lives to the universal qualities of truth, compassion, and forbearance.”

Falun Dafa Day Celebration at Missouri State Capitol

On May 13, 2025, the 26th World Falun Dafa Day, Falun Dafa practitioners in Missouri, U.S. held a celebration event at the state capitol in Jefferson City.

A Courtesy Resolution for World Falun Dafa Day was issued by State Senator Stephen Webber, and on the House side, a similar resolution was offered by State Representative Tara Peters, with co-sponsors Rep. Bennie Cook, Rep. Ben Keathley, Rep. Holly Jones, Rep. Willard Haley, Rep. Becky Laubinger, Rep. Don Mayhew, Rep. Jim Kalberloh, and Rep. Jeremy Dean.

Resolution from the Missouri State Senate

Resolution from the Missouri State General Assembly

Resolution from Maryland House of Delegates

To commemorate the 26th World Falun Dafa Day and the 33rd anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction, the Maryland House of Delegates issued House Resolution 703 in recognition of the anniversary and to wish Falun Dafa’s founder, Mr. Li Hongzhi, a happy birthday.

Resolution from the Maryland House of Delegates

Speaker Adrienne A. Jones of the Maryland House of Delegates

Proclamation from Ohio State Senate

Robert McColley, President of the Ohio Senate, and Senator Jerry C. Cirino also commended the Ohio Falun Dafa Association on behalf of the state senate to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day.

Ohio State Senate honors World Falun Dafa Day

Illinois State Senate Proclamation

The Illinois State Senate passed a proclamation proposed by Senator Lakesia Collins to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of Falun Dafa’s introduction in May 2025.

The honorable State Senator Lakesia Collins and the Falun Dafa Day proclamation

Support from Other State Officials

The Greater Philadelphia Falun Dafa Association received proclamations and congratulatory letters from federal and state officials to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and to thank practitioners for their contributions to communities.

Proclamations and congratulatory letters from: top row from left: Lisa Blunt Rochester (Delaware U.S. Senator), Pennsylvania Senator Vincent Hughes, Pennsylvania Representatives Mary Isaacson and Mandy Steele; bottom row from left: Philadelphia City Council Speaker Kenyatta Johnson, City Councilor Mark Squilla, Allegheny County Executive Patrick J. Catena and County Councilor Bob Macey.

Michigan State Senator Jim Runestad of the 23rd District issued a Special Tribute on May 20, 2025, to honor the practitioners who selflessly introduce Falun Dafa.

Michigan State Senator Jim Runestad and his special tribute

“As we reflect on this special day, we express gratitude to Master Li Hongzhi for sharing this invaluable gift with the world,” the senator wrote in the tribute. “We celebrate the millions who have found solace, purpose, and health through Falun Dafa, and we honor their enduring spirit. May the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance continue to illuminate hearts and guide humanity toward a brighter, more harmonious future.

“In special tribute, Therefore, this document is signed and dedicated to honor World Falun Dafa Day. May this day be a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of peace, kindness, and inner discipline.”

State Senator Sam Singh of the 28th District, Michigan, and his letter

State Senator Sam Singh of the 28th District in Michigan, wrote to express his support for Falun Dafa. “I would like to acknowledge the 33rd Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day that is celebrated throughout the great state of Michigan and around the world. I wish the continued success of practitioners of Falun Dafa in all of their future endeavors,” he wrote.

Karl Bohnak, state representative from the 109th District in Michigan, issued a special tribute honoring World Falun Dafa Day.

Karl Bohnak, state representative from the 109th District, issued a special tribute to honor World Falun Dafa Day, “Let it be known, that it is with great respect and recognition that we honor the 33rd anniversary of the public introduction of Falun Dafa, a spiritual practice that has positively impacted individuals and communities across the globe, including right here in the great state of Michigan.”

Proclamation from Maryland State Senator Benjamin F. Kramer

“Be it hereby known to all that sincerest congratulations are offered to Falun Dafa Association of Washington, DC in recognition of World Falun Dafa Day celebrating a positive impact on the health and spirit of millions of around the world, and the 33rd Anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction on the birthday of its founder, Li Hongzhi,” wrote Maryland State Senator Benjamin F. Kramer in his special citation.

Florida State Representative Vicki L. Lopez

In her congratulatory letter, Florida State Representative Vicki L. Lopez wrote that she sincerely recognizes Falun Dafa’s long-lasting, positive impact on society. She also commended practitioners for their determination and kindness.