(Minghui.org) Falun Gong practitioners participated in the 70^th annual Newark Days parade on September 20, 2025, in Newark, California. They were very well received, with the mayor personally thanking them for their participation. The spectators were enthusiastic about Falun Gong and many people said they wanted to learn the Falun Gong exercises.

Falun Gong practitioners participate in the Newark Days parade on September 20, 2025, in Newark, California.

Practitioners march past the main stage.

Some people followed along as practitioners demonstrated the exercises.

Practitioners handed out information about Falun Gong.

There were over 100 groups in the parade that day. Many people said Falun Gong practitioners brought a calming energy to the event. Many were already familiar with Falun Gong, as practitioners have participated in Newark Days before. Some gave them two thumbs up and one person exclaimed, “It’s a great delight to see you again!”

The Falun Gong parade entry included large banners and practitioners in yellow exercise suits demonstrating the exercises. Many people followed along with their movements. After the parade, many expressed interest in learning more about Falun Gong and others asked where they could learn the exercises.

Mayor Supports Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance

Newark Mayor Michael Shannon (on left), deputy mayor Eve Little (second right), city councilors Terrence Grindall (second left), Julie Catancio (center), and Matthew Jorgens (on right)

Newark Mayor Michael Shannon and several city councilors participated in the parade. Mayor Shannon said, “We are grateful for their [Falun Gong practitioners’] attendance. People from different community groups and cultural backgrounds participating in the parade makes our community a better place. We welcome their presence and are delighted that they can celebrate the occasion with us today. I am very grateful.”

When he learned that Falun Gong is based on the principles Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance, the mayor said, “I support these principles. We should treat our community with sincerity and kindness. We should be tolerant of different religious faiths and cultures. I am grateful for these values.”

The Persecution in China Is Not Right

Brenda Bertram, principal of Bridgepoint High School

Brenda Bertram, principal of Bridgepoint High School, also took part in the parade with a group representing the high school. When she learned that Falun Gong teaches people to follow Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance, she said, “I absolutely agree with these principles. People should treat one another with kindness. The persecution in China is not right and cannot be accepted or tolerated.”

One spectator took photos with his phone when he saw Falun Gong practitioners marching past. He said he was most impressed by how orderly the group was. “I love to meditate as well, and this practice looks very attractive.”

When he saw the three words—Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance—on the flier, he said, “These are universal values. Everyone should follow them, whether or not you practice Falun Gong. Regardless of modern society or in ancient times, people should follow them, especially in today’s society. This is important.”

Lisett (holding child) and her friend Diana brought their children to the parade.

Lisett said, “I love Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance. We need these three principles, especially in today’s society. We should treat people kindly, be tolerant, and work hard being sincere. Our lives need these.”

Her friend Diana said, “I need this practice; I need to relax.”

Ashley and her husband Ken loved practitioners’ presence in the parade.

Ashley said, “Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance are amazing. We need these principles. Falun Gong brings people together. The exercises they do make people feel peaceful. They are good people. I am happy to see them.” Her husband Ken agreed, “Their movements make me feel calm.”

Jeff and his friends Marie (center) and Brittney said they were happy to see Falun Gong practitioners in the parade.

Jeff was pleased to take a flier from a practitioner. “This looks cool. It makes you feel relaxed. We love the principles promoted by Falun Gong—Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance. We should be kind. Thank you!”

Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance Is Much Needed in Our Society

Joe said he was happy to see practitioners.

Local resident Joe applauded as practitioners marched past. He said, “I’m happy to see you demonstrating the exercises for people in our community. I think everyone should learn Falun Gong. I support Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance one hundred per cent. Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance is much needed in our society.”

My Favorite Group Is Falun Gong

Vanessa said Falun Gong was her favorite group in the parade.

Vanessa, who works at the Sutter Health clinic, said, “My favorite group in the parade is Falun Gong because they are very peaceful, and watching them helped my tense body relax. They bring a positive, uplifting energy to people. Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance is wonderful, and we should live by these principles. I’m delighted to see you in the parade. You are great!”

Laura

Laura took photos of practitioners marching in the parade and gave them a thumbs up. “You are amazing! The costumes are beautiful, your movements are orderly, and you coordinate well. I love the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. This is a great practice!” she exclaimed.