(Minghui.org) July 20, 2012 marks the 13th anniversary of the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners in China. On the eve of the July 20th, US Congressman Michael G. Grimm from New York wrote the following letter to Falun Gong practitioners, in solidarity with the peaceful protests against the persecution.

Michael G. Grimm, Member of Congress

Congress of the United States

House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515-3213

July 12, 2012

Falun Dafa Association
8927 Shade Grove Court
Gaithersburg, MD 20877

To Practitioners of Falun Gong,

It is with great support and encouragement that I send this letter to the Falun Gong practitioners gathered on the Mall here today. The people of the 13th District of New York celebrate religious diversity and commend those individuals who devote themselves to sharing their spiritual gifts and skills with their community. Falun Gong promotes the personal cultivation of the mind, body, and spirit, which is an important aspect of Chinese culture.

Since 1992, Falun Gong has been a part of the Chinese culture as well as an important practice in communities here in the United States. With the combined practice of meditation and slow-moving exercises Falun Gong promotes inner purity and spiritual realization. Practitioners are united by Truth, Compassion, and Forbearance, which are values held by all.

Spiritual and religious freedoms are often taken for granted. The Falun Gong movement serves to remind us that religious persecution does exist. The efforts of Falun Gong practitioners to help people achieve spirituality and enlightenment through this practice are greatly appreciated. The peaceful methods of Falun Gong practitioners, in an effort to broaden the consciousness of people and rid them of hatred, are a paragon of the selflessness upheld by the Buddhist system.

I praise you for your hard work to support not only a healthy and mindful lifestyle, but your freedom as well. I am honored to stand with you in support of the right of all people to practice their faith and spirituality.

Sincerely,

Michael G. Grimm

Member of Congress