United States: Falun Gong Practitioners Participate in Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade in Washington DC

On March 15th, 2009, local Falun Gong practitioners took part in the 38th Saint Patrick's Day Parade held along Constitution Ave. in Washington D.C. The practitioners have participated in this parade six years in a row, and were the only Chinese group in the parade.

Exercise demonstration on the float

One hundred and ten groups were in the parade. Although there was a light rain, the parade was warmly welcomed by the spectators. Falun Gong practitioners held a big green banner reading "Falun Dafa," and demonstrated the exercises on the float. A waist drum team of practitioners played at the back of the procession. The oriental-style performance attracted many people. Mr. Richard Schmehl, of Irish descent, watches the parade every year. He said that he was very glad to see the practitioners' performance, remarking that it was energetic and unique.