Proclamation

WHEREAS, this year, North Carolina Falun Dafa Association hosts Divine Performing Arts (DPA) Performance at Durham Performing Arts Center on December 28, 2008; and

WHEREAS, in 2008, DPA Performance dazzled over 600,000 live audience members in more than 60 cities on four continents, making it the largest world-class Chinese performance tour in the world; and

WHEREAS, the DPA Performance uses the expression of Chinese classical dance, showcasing genuine traditional Chinese culture; and

WHEREAS, based in New York, DPA is a nonprofit organization that is consciously independent of China's regime, under which the traditional arts have suffered for decades; and

WHEREAS, the DPA seeks to breathe new life into traditional Chinese culture and to provide an experience of sublime beauty and are commended for their achievements in rediscovering the traditional cultural arts of China; and

WHEREAS, the DPA Performance blends the divine charm of the East with the holiday spirit of the West; and

WHEREAS, this year's show brings to the same stage a collaboration of leading artists, dancers, musicians and vocalists; and

WHEREAS, with the unique use of background scenery, costumes and choreography, the DPA Performance is a wonderful cultural observance for the community; and

WHEREAS, in its efforts to impact the true Chinese culture to North Carolina Research Triangle Park and beyond, Divine Performing Arts of New York have offered an invaluable community service by providing a world-class forum in which people can participate, learn, and flourish.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, William V. "Bill" Bell, Mayor of the City of Durham, North Carolina, do hereby recognize the Divine Performing Arts for their contributions to promoting Chinese cultural heritage and diversity.

WITNESS my hand and the corporate seal of the City of Durham, North Carolina, this 26th day of December 2008.

William V. "Bill" Bell
Mayor