Media Release

From Falun Dafa Association of New Zealand Inc.

19 November 2008

The Falun Dafa Association of New Zealand takes legal action over 2008 Auckland Farmers Santa Parade exclusion.

The Falun Dafa Association of New Zealand ("The Association") is today filing legal proceedings by way of judicial review at the Auckland High Court.  The Association had applied to participate in the 2008 Auckland Farmers Santa Parade but has been declined by the Auckland Childrens Christmas Parade Trust.

The refusal is difficult to comprehend.  The Association has participated in many parades since 2001 in places as diverse as Christchurch, Hamilton, Wellington, Palmerston North, Howick, Panmure and Kamo etc.  The Association's entry has even won prizes for its quality, panache and professionalism.

Clearly, the Association's entry fits perfectly well with the nature and spirit of Christmas as a fun family occasion.  The Association simply wants to bring the beauty and splendor of Falun Dafa to the people of Auckland.  Auckland is an ethnically diverse and culturally inclusive city, and we want to share  traditional  Chinese culture with the community.. Christmas is meant to celebrate the life and example of Jesus Christ, who taught us to practice the virtues of truthfulness, compassion, forbearance.  As Falun Dafa practitioners practice the same, we hope to celebrate this special occasion with the people of Auckland.

Where: Auckland High Court

When: 19 November 2008, approximately 11:00am

Representative: Mr Evgeny Orlov, Barrister, Equity Law

ends

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