[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 98 (Wednesday, June 10, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E559-E560]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING FALUN DAFA MONTH AND THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF FALUN DAFA 
                       PRACTITIONERS IN VIRGINIA

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 10, 2026

  Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Falun Dafa 
Month and to acknowledge the contributions of Falun Dafa practitioners 
in communities across Virginia and throughout the United States.
  This year marks the 30th anniversary of the introduction of Falun 
Dafa to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Also known as Falun Gong, Falun 
Dafa is a spiritual practice rooted in meditation, exercise, and 
principles centered

[[Page E560]]

on truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. Since being introduced in 
Virginia, practitioners have shared the practice through free 
workshops, cultural events, and community engagement efforts across the 
region.
  In Northern Virginia, Falun Dafa practitioners have participated in 
local festivals, parades, and cultural celebrations that help 
strengthen community connections and promote greater cultural 
understanding. Their outreach and volunteer efforts have become a 
familiar part of many community events throughout our region.
  This recognition also serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the 
importance of religious freedom and the right of individuals to 
practice their beliefs peacefully and openly. Many Falun Dafa 
practitioners came to the United States after facing religious 
persecution abroad and continue to advocate for greater awareness of 
human rights issues around the world.
  I would also like to recognize the many practitioners and volunteers 
whose continued involvement in our communities reflects a strong 
commitment to civic participation and cultural engagement.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Falun Dafa 
Month and in celebrating the contributions Falun Dafa practitioners 
continue to make to communities across Virginia and our Nation.

                          ____________________