Tai Ji Men’s Dragon of Hope Debuts in South Pasadena’s Independence Day Parade
Spreading Love and Peace for a Brighter, More Sustainable Future
2025-07-04
On July 4, 2025, the City of South Pasadena in Southern California hosted a vibrant parade to celebrate America’s 249th birthday. Themed “Unity in Community: One Nation, One Neighborhood,” the event was attended by U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, California Assemblymember Mike Fong, South Pasadena Mayor Janet Braun, Mayor Pro Tem Sheila Rossi, Councilmembers Michael Cacciotti, Jon Primuth, and Omari Ferguson, alongside many local NGOs and enthusiastic residents.
Councilmember Jon Primuth added: “I just want to thank the Tai Ji Men Academy for supporting our parade, for making a wonderful demonstration, for coming with all the colors, all their energy, all their beauty. Thank you so much. You enhance our community. Thank you for the love and positive energy you bring to our world.”
Spectators echoed the praise. Tally shared, “Everyone was so genuine and so authentic and festive.” Emily added, “It's just so beautiful. I love the performances. I always look forward to them.”
Anna Draniewicz and Deena Rusch commented, “They were the best in the parade. It's absolutely beautiful to show that and be proud of this culture.” They applauded the costumes and dancers and highlighted the importance of showcasing diversity and inclusion.
This year, the Tai Ji Men team included about 60 members from diverse ethnicities and professions, aged 9 to 76. Participants included a doctor, a professor, pharmacists, a CPA, a lawyer, teachers, students, engineers, executives, and retirees—showcasing the rich inclusivity of Tai Ji Men culture.
Among them was Dr. Don Kwok, a gastroenterologist from Las Vegas who recovered from a heart attack through Tai Ji Men qigong. Inspired by Dr. Hong’s teachings, he flew in on July 3 to participate, saying the experience of doing good and sharing positive energy had deeply enriched his life.
Yi-Chuan, a mechanical engineering student, started practicing qigong at age six. Formerly shy, he gained confidence and now smiles freely. He helped craft the dragon robe and was honored to perform in South Pasadena, wishing to spread energy and hope to all.
Michelle, a high school junior and robotics team leader, joined the parade for the second time. Recently, her team won the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship Game Design Challenge Award. She shared: “I’m grateful my parents introduced me to Tai Ji Men when I was little. It’s strengthened my body and mind and given me many chances to participate in meaningful community and global events. I’ve learned how to spread love and peace, gained wisdom and confidence, and developed leadership skills that I’ll carry throughout my life.”
Tai Ji Men’s vibrant participation added cultural depth and positive energy to the parade, demonstrating how spiritual and cultural traditions can unite people across ages and backgrounds. Through artful performances, Tai Ji Men continues to promote peace, conscience, and kindness, lighting up the national celebration with love and hope.
About Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy
Tai Ji Men is an international, nonprofit cultural organization dedicated to spreading love and peace and enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Since 2000, Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze has established four academies in California, with the latest in Santa Clara and Pasadena opened in 2023.
Dr. Hong has led Tai Ji Men and the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) on self-funded visits to 114 countries across six continents, promoting a culture of peace with love and conscience. He is the initiator of the UN-designated International Day of Conscience and International Day of Hope. In March 2023, he received the U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of over 1.2 million volunteer hours contributed by him and FOWPAL members to the nation.