(Minghui.org) The Falun Gong group's Toronto Divine Land Marching Band and Waist Drum Team were invited to perform at the annual Multicultural Festival in Oshawa on June 21.
The Divine Land Marching Band in the parade
The Waist Drum team
The band and drum team after the parade
“This band seems bigger every year,” said Randy, a spectator who does photography as a hobby. “I hope that more and more people will join them,” Randy said, as he snapped photos of the band and drummers.
Randy said the Falun Gong parade entry seems bigger every year.
“I knew that Falun Gong has been persecuted in China, but I didn't know the details,” Randy added as he took an informational flyer from a practitioner.
“This is a peaceful group,” said Gerry, another spectator. “Their performances are excellent, and their music is uplifting.”
Gerry said the Falun Gong group's music is uplifting.
“I know about the persecution of Falun Gong in China. They should have freedom. The persecution and torture are wrong. How can a peaceful group be so brutally tortured? Everybody should help to stop it,” Gerry said.
Pointing at a military tank entry, which was marching between the Falun Gong band and drum team, Gerry laughed: “You see? The tanks are between the two Falun Gong groups. This means that Falun Gong is protected by the national military in Canada.”
The military tank entry marches between the Falun Gong band and drum team.
Brigit Fran was amazed that the members of the drum team, most of whom are senior citizens, were so energetic.
“They are dancing for such a long time, while playing the drums. It is truly great. I must learn more about this exercise,” Brigit said.
Brigit Fran (right) and her friend
Kevin and his wife Joan said they look forward to seeing the Falun Gong group in the parade every year.
Kevin and Joan
“They can freely demonstrate their beliefs in Canada and other places in the world. They bring joy to others. However, they don't have freedom in China,” Kevin said.
Joan added, “Such a wonderful group should not be persecuted. We will do what we can to help them end the persecution.”
At the end of the parade, an event staff member welcomed the band: “Thank you for coming! We're glad to have you back each year.”
