New York State Senate officially passed Resolution No. 243 on January 22 to commemorate May 13, 2025 as the “26th World Falun Dafa Day.” The resolution was proposed by State Senators Murray, Ashby, Borrello, Griffo, Lanza, Martins, Oberacker, O’Mara, Rhoads, and Tedisco.
The resolution acknowledges that World Falun Dafa Day celebrates the physical and mental well-being brought to millions of people globally since the public introduction of Falun Dafa by Mr. Li Hongzhi in Changchun, China in May 1992. This practice, rooted in ancient Chinese culture, combines slow-moving exercises with tranquil meditation, emphasizing the moral principles of “Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance.”
It recognizes that Falun Dafa practitioners strive for moral elevation through self-improvement and five sets of gentle exercises, leading to significant health benefits and spiritual enlightenment. Prior to 1998, an estimated one hundred million people practiced Falun Dafa in China, with widespread dissemination in 114 countries worldwide and receiving over three thousand awards and recognitions.
Despite facing suppression in its country of origin, Falun Dafa practitioners remain steadfast in their beliefs. The resolution particularly underscores that this practice symbolizes a spiritual strength for the Chinese people who seek freedom and belief amidst oppression.
Falun Dafa was introduced to New York in 1996 and quickly expanded in the tri-state area. Practitioners have long been offering free teaching activities at senior centers, corporations, fitness clubs, police stations, and other venues.
The Senate specifically notes the positive impact Falun Dafa has brought to the community and the world, and resolves to formally recognize the celebratory events on May 13, 2025, sending a copy of the resolution to Falun Dafa practitioners in New York State to offer encouragement.