SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 512

WHEREAS, Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is a spiritual practice rooted in ancient Chinese culture and Buddhist traditions, which millions of people around the world have incorporated into their lives; and

WHEREAS, In 1992, Falun Dafa was introduced to the public in China by founder Li Hongzhi; by the end of the decade, it had attracted around 100 million followers, and today, it is practiced in more than 70 countries across the globe; and

WHEREAS, 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; and

WHEREAS, The Chinese Communist Party issued an order to ban Falun Dafa in 1999, and since that time, practitioners worldwide have been persecuted for their beliefs and have lived under the threat of abduction, imprisonment, or worse; Falun Dafa members have courageously stood up for their right to practice, and in so doing, they have demonstrated the value of life and human dignity in the face of oppression; and

WHEREAS, Under the guidance of Li Hongzhi, members have worked to convey the tenets of the practice in a way that transcends cultural and racial boundaries; the movement was introduced in Texas in 1994, and over a dozen practice sites have since been established in the state; local Falun Dafa members have enriched the lives of their fellow Texans by sharing their beliefs and practices through workshops, clubs, and cultural events; moreover, media outlets, performing arts initiatives, and other organizations affiliated with Falun Dafa have furthered its outreach efforts in the United States and beyond; and

WHEREAS, 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; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, hereby recognize May 13, 2025, as Falun Dafa Day and extend sincere best wishes to all practitioners of Falun Dafa who call our state home.

Paxton

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 13, 2025.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate