Falun Gong adherents from across Canada came to Toronto last weekend and marked the 19th anniversary of the practice’s public introduction. Rocco Rossi, Progressive Conservative candidate for Ontario and former candidate for mayor of Toronto, noted the significance of the event.
“There are some people who say ‘19 years is the blink of an eye, it’s a very small amount of time, why celebrate 19 years.’ One year—one year—surviving against a very powerful government that doesn’t want to see you exist, is incredible. Nineteen years is nothing short of a miracle.”
Rocco said Falun Gong had survived because of its principles.
“Because at the end of the day, truthfulness is more powerful than lies, compassion is more powerful than violence, and forbearance than prejudice and intolerance. … Thank you for your courage.”
Newly minted Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver offered his congratulations as well.
“I am so pleased to join you again in your celebration of Falun Dafa’s profound principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance, whose goals encompass spiritual enlightenment and a healthy body and mind.”
He said Canada benefits from the Falun Gong community’s unwavering devotion to Canada. “You enrich our country with your customs, your traditions, and your learnings.”
Approximately 400 Falun Gong practitioners attended events in Toronto that included a conference and a parade.
