WASHINGTON—The mood was somber but optimistic on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Thursday as over 1,000 Falun Gong practitioners from around the country and around the world gathered to mark the 13th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) persecution of Falun Gong.
Under sunny skies, members of Congress joined representatives from notable human rights and religious freedom NGOs in congratulating the practitioners for their courageous fight for spiritual freedom. Several speakers sensed that a change was in the air.
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“At this year’s rally, we are at a historical moment—when the Chinese people as a whole, and some Chinese leaders, appear to be seeking to end the persecution of Falun Gong,” said Alan Adler, executive director of Friends of Falun Gong USA, during the introductions. “Today’s strong voice to end the persecution of Falun Gong, at this critical time of transition of leadership in China, can make a huge impact on China and for all its people.”
