(Minghui.org) May 13, 2026 is the 27th World Falun Dafa Day and the 34th anniversary since Falun Dafa was introduced to the public in 1992. More than 40 elected officials in New York issued proclamations or congratulatory letters praising Falun Dafa and the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance and their physical and mental benefits, and Falun Dafa’s positive impact on society.
More than 40 elected officials in New York issued proclamations or congratulatory letters to commemorate the 27th World Falun Dafa on May 13, 2026. (Compiled from pictures on official websites)
(Continued from Part 1)
Proclamations From 15 State Representatives
Congratulatory letter from Representative Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes (Minghui.org)
Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes, New York State Assembly Majority Leader, sent a congratulatory letter to practitioners in her district (Buffalo) wishing them and New York State residents a happy Falun Dafa Day:
“On May 13, 2026, the 27th Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day will be celebrated. This day marks the 34th year since Falun Dafa, an ancient meditation practice, was introduced to the public. Falun Dafa’s values are remarkable contributions to society.
“Founded by Mr. Li Hongzhi, his teachings and guidance have inspired millions to lead more peaceful. kind, and meaningful lives. Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, transcends cultural boundaries and contributes to a healthier and more harmonious society. It is an uplifting spiritual practice that improves individuals’ overall well-being and is based on the universal principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance since its introduction in China on May 13, 1992.
“As we acknowledge this special day, we also recognize the resilience of those who continue to face persecution for their beliefs. The freedom to practice one’s faith without fear is a fundamental human right, and the courage shown by practitioners in the face of adversity reminds us of the importance of safeguarding that freedom everywhere.
“World Falun Dafa Day is a celebration of peace, compassion, and the universal values that uplift humanity. I commend the practitioners of Falun Dafa for their dedication to these ideals and for the positive impact they continue to make in our district and beyond.
“I, Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes, Majority Leader, New York State Assembly, Assemblymember 141st District, do hereby join with the Citizens of the State of New York and the City of Buffalo, in recognition of World Falun Dafa Day.”
Proclamation from Representative Edward P. Ra (Minghui.org)
Edward P. Ra, New York State Assembly Minority Leader, issued a proclamation that reads:
“WHEREAS, a great state is only as great as those persons who give exemplary service to their community, whether through participation in voluntary programs, through unique personal achievement in their professional or other endeavors, or simply through a lifetime of good citizenry; and
“WHEREAS, it is my desire to honor individuals and organizations which exemplify integrity, commitment and concern for their community and its citizens; and now therefore be it
“RESOLVED, that I, Ed Ra, New York State Assemblyman of the 19th District, do hereby present this citation to commemorate May 13, 2026- World Falun Dafa Day.”
Proclamation from Representative Mary Beth Walsh (Minghui.org)
Mary Beth Walsh, State Representative for the 112th District, wrote in a proclamation:
“In recognition of World Falun Dafa Day, we commend the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, and acknowledge Falun Dafa’s values and its remarkable contributions to society. On behalf of the citizens of the 112th Assembly District, we extend our most sincere recognition and best wishes.”
Proclamation from Representative Karl Brabenec (Minghui.org)
Karl Brabenec, ranking member within the Assembly Minority Conference and former Minority Whip, wrote in a proclamation:
“Whereas, It is appropriate that we gather to celebrate days whose creation transcends national boundaries in celebration of peace; and
“Whereas, May 13, 2026 marks the 27th World Falun Dafa Day and the 34th anniversary of Falun Dafa to the public; and
“Whereas, Falun Dafa encourages Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance; and
“Whereas, These principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance have proven to be beneficial to the millions of practitioners of Falun Dafa around the world; and
“Whereas, Mr. Li Hongzhi, by teaching Falun Dafa has helped pursue a worldwide effort to advance the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of those who practice Falun Dafa; and
“Whereas, Falun Dafa practitioners within the 98th Assembly District of the State of New York benefit in the practice of Falun Dafa in many ways including organizing cultural events, meditation workshops, educating those who wish to learn the practice, and by participating in public events; and
“Whereas, Since 1999, there has been an effort by the Chinese government to eradicate the practice of Falun Dafa; and
“Whereas, Such practice by the Chinese government is without reason; and
“Whereas, Falun Dafa practitioners, notwithstanding the effort of the Chinese government to eradicate this practice have met such attacks on their practice with perseverance, focused on ensuring their practice can continue to grow and spread its benefits around the world; and
“Whereas, on May 13, 2026, millions from around the world will reaffirm their celebration of Falun Dafa and its fundamental ideals of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance; now therefore be it
“Resolved, that May 13, 2026 is hereby declared to be World Falun Dafa Day and that greetings are extended to Mr. Li Hongzhi in celebration of this Day.”
Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, New York State Assembly Majority Whip and State Assembly Member for the 42nd District, also presented a proclamation honoring Falun Dafa.
Proclamation from Representative Andrew Hevesi (Minghui.org)
Andrew D. Hevesi, chair of the State Assembly Standing Committee on Children and Families and State Assembly Member for the 28th District, wrote in a proclamation:
“Whereas, a community is only as strong as those who serve it—through personal achievement, collective effort, or a lifetime of good works; and
“Whereas, such service is the lifeblood of our City and State, yet too often goes unrecognized; and
“Whereas, the Falun Dafa practitioners of the 28th Assembly District have strived to enhance our communities through wellness activities, cultural celebrations, and a commitment to service; and
“Whereas, each year on May 13, practitioners around the world mark World Falun Dafa Day through meditation demonstrations, cultural performances, and community activities that promote well-being and shared values; and
“Whereas, May 13, 2026 is recognized as Falun Dafa Day across the globe, and we extend our best wishes to its observers, therefore be it
“Resolved, we recognize Falun Dafa Day in the 28th Assembly District.”
Congratulatory letter from Representative Ron Kim (Minghui.org)
Ron Kim, chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Tourism, Parks, Arts and Sports Development, and Assembly Member for the 40th District, wrote in a congratulatory letter:
“I am writing in acknowledgement of the hard work and dedication of the Falun Dafa practitioners of Queens. Living in one of the most diverse areas of the world, they and other New Yorkers have contributed to the richness of the community. With numerous adherents throughout the world, including many New York residents, the practice of Falun Gong has become a growing presence in our state.
“Like many of their fellow residents, they have had an active presence in local neighborhoods, including offering classes in various community locations and participating in annual parades and street fairs. On May 13th, 2026 practitioners around the globe will celebrate the 34th Anniversary of the public introduction of their practice, in acknowledgement of World Falun Dafa Day, and Falun Gong followers in the New York metropolitan area have committed countless hours to celebrating this event in our city. On behalf of the New York State Assembly, I offer my best wishes for a successful event.”
Congratulatory letter from Representative Alec Brook-Krasny (Minghui.org)
Alec Brook-Krasny, State Assembly Member for the 46th District and Ranking Member of the State Assembly Committee on Aging, wrote a congratulatory letter,
“I am pleased to extend my recognition and support in honor of the 27th Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day, to be celebrated on May 13, 2026.
“For more than three decades, Falun Dafa practitioners around the world have promoted the values of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance through peaceful meditation, spiritual discipline, and community engagement. Since its public introduction in 1992, Falun Dafa has positively impacted millions of individuals across more than 100 countries by encouraging personal well-being, mindfulness, and moral integrity.
“Within our own communities, practitioners have contributed meaningfully through free wellness workshops, meditation instruction, cultural events, and outreach efforts that encourage understanding, compassion, and peaceful coexistence. Their commitment to fostering harmony and supporting the well-being of others reflects values that resonate across all backgrounds and communities.
“At the same time, World Falun Dafa Day also serves as an important opportunity to reaffirm the universal importance of religious freedom, human dignity, and the right of individuals to peacefully practice their beliefs without fear of persecution. These principles remain fundamental to any free and democratic society.
“As we recognize this occasion, I commend all those who continue to promote peace, compassion, and cultural understanding through their work and service to the community. Please accept my sincere congratulations and best wishes for a meaningful and successful celebration.”
Proclamation from Representative Rebecca Kassay (Minghui.org)
Representative Rebecca Kassay of the 4th District presented a proclamation:
“The Assembly of the State of New York, in recognition of the achievement of World Falun Dafa Day is observed each year on May 13th and celebrates the introduction of Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, to the public in 1992. The day recognizes the practice’s principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, which practitioners strive to incorporate into their daily lives. It also serves as a time to honor the positive impact Falun Dafa has had on individuals and communities around the world through meditation, self-improvement, and peaceful practice. Additionally, the day raises awareness of the importance of religious freedom and human rights.”
Congratulatory letter from Representative John K. Mikulin (Minghui.org)
John K. Mikulin, ranking member of the House Consumer Affairs and Protection Committee and the 17th Congressional District Representative, wrote a congratulatory letter:
“Congratulations to the Long Island Falun Dafa practitioners in celebration of the 27th Anniversary of World Falun Dafa Day!
“Falun Dafa is a spiritual practice rooted in Chinese ancient tradition and centered on the Universal Principles of Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance. Falun Dafa practitioners have touched the lives of many residents on Long Island by offering free Falun Gong exercise instructions and workshops, cultural programs on television cable shows, art exhibits and outdoor practice sites as well as sharing personal experiences.
“May Falun Dafa continue to be successful for those who practice and attest to its health benefits, new-found energy, mental clarity, stress relief and life-changing experiences! Again, my most heartfelt congratulations to the Falun Dafa practitioners of New York!”
Proclamation from Representative Khaleel M. Anderson (Minghui.org)
Khaleel M. Anderson, New York State Assembly Member for the 31st District, issued a proclamation:
“Whereas, Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is a peaceful self-cultivation practice rooted in ancient Chinese traditions and introduced to the public in 1992 by Mr. Li Hongzhi,
“Whereas, over the past 34 years, Falun Dafa has been embraced by individuals in more than 100 countries, transcending cultural, social, and professional boundaries; and
“Whereas, practitioners of Falun Dafa often report improved health, reduced stress, and an enhanced sense of inner peace and well-being, contributing positively to the vitality of their local communities; and
“Whereas, Falun Data is taught free of charge, with volunteer instructors providing classes and access to books, instructional materials, and online resources at no cost, ensuring accessibility to all who wish to learn; and
“Whereas, communities across New York State, including those within this Assembly District, join in observing World Falun Dafa Day each year on May 13, and in 2026 mark the 27th observance of this occasion, commemorating the 34th anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction and its enduring contributions to society;
“Resolved, that the New York State Assembly hereby recognizes May 13, 2026, as the 27th World Falun Dafa Day, and commends Falun Dafa practitioners for their commitment to promoting health, harmony, and compassion throughout New York State, including within this Assembly District 27th World Falun Dafa Day.”
Proclamation from Representative Paula Elaine Kay (Minghui.org)
“Falun Dafa practice is simple, consisting of self-improvement through study and the observation of five gentle exercises,” wrote Paula Elaine Kay, New York State Assembly Member for the 100th District, in a proclamation. “It (Falun Dafa) was introduced to New York in 1996, and today its includes hundreds of practitioners who work to improve our communities at every level.”
“I, Assemblymember Paula Elaine Kay, do hereby honor Falun Dafa on the 27th Annual World Falun Dafa Day,” she continued.
Proclamation from New York State Assemblyman John Lemondes (126th District) (Minghui.org)
Proclamation from New York State Assemblyman Josh Jensen (134th District)
Clyde Vanel, chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Banks and State Assembly Member for the 33rd District, also issued a proclamation. (Minghui.org)
(To be continued)
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Category: Dafa Day Recognition