(Minghui.org) Falun Dafa practitioners from Toronto participated in the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (IDERD) on April 7, 2019. They introduced the ancient cultivation practice at this community event which was organized by the York Regional Police Department.

Police officers from the York Regional Police have their photo taken with Falun Dafa practitioners at the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on April 7, 2019.

This year, 2019, marks the 17^th anniversary of this popular community event. Eric Jolliffe, the York Regional Police chief, along with several elected officials from various levels of government, attended the event and expressed their support.

During his opening speech, Chief Jolliffe stated that being a Canadian means respecting one another, respecting human rights and the law, and living together in peace, kindness, and tolerance. He said that the York Regional Police are committed to protecting the community's human rights, freedom of religion, and racial equality.

Chief Eric Jolliffe of the York Regional Police with Falun Dafa practitioners at the event.

Deputy Chief Robertson Rouse with Falun Dafa practitioners at the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on April 7, 2019.

Mike, a young human rights advocate, stopped to talk with the practitioners. After listening to a brief introduction of Falun Dafa and the ongoing persecution in China he praised the young practitioners who were participating in the community event.

“This is great! I support you!” Mike said, “We'll have many constructive collaborations in many areas. We need to work together to safeguard human rights.”

Before he left, Mike shook hands with the practitioners and said, “Keep in touch. We'll meet again soon.”

Mike, a human rights advocate, talks with a Falun Dafa practitioner.

Many residents came to the Falun Dafa booth to learn more about the practice.

Shelley, from Newmarket City, was very interested in learning to practice Falun Dafa and asked to be contacted for the upcoming Nine Day Lecture and exercise workshop.

A Chinese man came to the booth and said that he had seen Falun Dafa practitioners several times. After he talked with practitioners for more than 20 minutes, he thanked them and took some information so he could learn more about the practice.

Introducing Falun Dafa at the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination April 7, 2019.