(Minghui.org) The former U.S. capital and birthplace of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia held a series of celebrations on the nation’s 248^th birthday. Falun Dafa practitioners participated in the Salute to Independence Parade on July 4, 2024. Their waist drum dance and lotus flower teams received high praise.

Practitioners were invited to participate in the Salute to Independence Parade in Philadelphia on July 4, 2024.

Ms. Li, the waist drum team leader said, “We Falun Dafa practitioners have been persecuted by the Chinese Communist Party for our belief, but we’re happy to enjoy the freedom of belief in this country. We are grateful for support from the people in the United States and all over the world. We’ve participated in at least 15 parades in Philadelphia, and we are filled with joy every time!

“Falun Dafa is the most compassionate cultivation practice. We like to spread the message of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance with our traditional waist drum dances.”

Ms. Peng, a member of the waist drum team, had cancer and couldn’t walk, but she recovered after she began practicing Falun Dafa. She said, “I’ve practiced Falun Dafa for more than 30 years, and stayed healthy without taking any medicine. Falun Dafa has amazing effects in improving one’s health and spirit. I’m honored to participate in this parade. I’d like to tell all the people in the world how great Falun Dafa is.”

Local resident Jack Roddy said, “I know about Falun Dafa. They are nice people, very peaceful... I can feel their energy. It’s beautiful!” Pointing at the paper lotus flower with a bookmark he received, Jack said, “I’ll visit their website and check out everything. The principles are great!”

Jack Roddy cheers for Falun Dafa and plans to learn more about it.

Juliette Gordon, a local resident, is happy to see Falun Dafa practitioners again this year.

Practitioners participated in another Independence Day parade in Glenside later that day.