(Minghui.org) May 13, 2021 is the 22nd World Falun Dafa Day and the 29th anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction. So far, 134 letters of greeting, proclamations, and videos have been received from elected officials in Canada to mark the occasion.
The following are letters and videos from Members of Parliament at the federal and provincial levels, and from mayors and councillors.
Members of Parliament at the federal and provincial levels, and mayors and councilors who sent letters and video greetings.First row, from left to right: The Hon. Erin O’Toole, Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada and the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, Mayor Christian Provenzano of Sault Ste. Marie, Mayor Charlie Clark of Saskatoon, Councillor Janice Lukes of Winnipeg, and Mayor and Councillor Markus Chambers of the City of Winnipeg. Second row: Councilor Lisa Kearns of the City of Burlington, Mayor Jamie McGarvey of the Town of Parry Sound, James Bezan, Member of Parliament (MP), MP Kevin Lamoureux, and MP Brad Redekopp.Third row: MP Larry Maguire, Dougald Lamont, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba for St. Boniface, Ryan Meili, Leader of the Opposition in Saskatchewan, Sheref Sabawy, Member of the Provincial Parliament for Mississauga—Erin Mills, and Mayor Fred Eisenberger of Hamilton.
Letter from The Hon. Erin O’Toole, Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada and the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada
In his letter, MP O’Toole stated, “I would like to recognize that Falun Dafa practitioners have been peacefully resisting persecution by the Chinese Communist Party for over 22 years.
“Through the promotion of the universal principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, this traditional Chinese practice has attracted followers around the world and I am proud of Canada’s lively Falun Dafa community.”
Video greeting from MP James Bezan
MP James Bezan said in his greeting, “The Falun Dafa principles of Truth, Compassion and Tolerance resonate within Canadians from coast to coast. And all are inspired to emulate.
“There is no question the ongoing persecution of Falun Gong practitioners in China by the Chinese Communist regime in Beijing needs to be called off. Those who are responsible for committing the atrocities such as the human organ harvesting have to be sanctioned, if not charged with crimes against humanity.
“As the conservatives continue to call on the liberal government in Canada to use the Magnitsky Law to apply sanctions against those who are using their authority and committing these gross human rights violations, of course, enriching themselves. They should not allowed to use Canada as a safe heaven for travel and for bringing their family here to get education here or hide their illicit wealth.”
Letter from MP Kevin Lamoureux for Winnipeg North
MP Kevin Lamoureux stated in his letter, “The history of the world would have been profoundly different in a more positive way had more people practiced Falun Gong. Falun Dafa has been found to be very peaceful and beneficial especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. It also helps people to improve their mental, moral and physical well-being and it contributes to a more healthy and harmonious society.
“Knowing that and believing in the good will and leaders of the current members, I am encouraged in how members of Falun Dafa will contribute to our communities in the future.”
Letter from MP Brad Redekopp for Saskatoon-West
MP Brad Redekopp stated in his letter, “The Falun Dafa community represents resilience, peace, and freedom. As the Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-West, I am proud to stand with you in the fight against tyranny and oppression.”
Video greeting from Dougald Lamont, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba for St. Boniface and Leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party.
MP Larry Maguire stated in his letter, “The diverse cultural group has helped Canadians battle through difficult times and improve mental health. The benefits of this practice are particularly important today, as the world struggles to navigate through the ongoing pandemic. As we continue to struggle with changes and restrictions Falun Dafa remains a steady voice of compassion.”
Dougald Lamont, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, said in his video greeting, “In this very difficult year due to the pandemic, we want to thank you for your forbearance, your peace and your contribution to Canada and the world.”
Letter from Ryan Meili, Leader of the Official Opposition
Ryan Meili, Leader of the Official Opposition, stated in his letter, “This past year has challenged our province, and as we know, it has been a challenge not only to maintain and protect our physical well-being but also our mental well-being. Falun Dafa practitioners have offered meditation exercise instructions online throughout the pandemic, and that work is invaluable.
“The Falun Dafa community continues to face unspeakable atrocities within China and abroad. The hatred, violence, and torture endured are devastating and despicable. By sending a greeting to mark Falun Dafa Day on May 13th, the Official Opposition and I affirm our commitments to human rights and the values of truthfulness, compassion and tolerance.”
Letter from Sheref Sabawy, Member of Provincial Parliament for Mississauga—Erin Mills
Sheref Sabawy, Member of Provincial Parliament, stated in his letter, “Your universal principles of truthfulness, compassion and forbearance are a beacon of light for many, especially during trying times like these. I am delighted that you are sharing your history, message and teachings with Canadians, and look forward to many more years of celebrations.”
Letter from Mayor Fred Eisenberger of the City of Hamilton
Mayor Fred Eisenberger stated in his letter, “We join with you in your call for more freedom, conscience, and transparency in the world today. We appreciate your values of ‘Truthfulness, Compassion and Forbearance.’ You have brought those values in your work here in Canada and around the globe.”
Letter from Mayor Christian Provenzano of the City of Sault Ste. Marie
Mayor Christian Provenzano stated in his letter, “I understand that truthfulness, benevolence and forbearance are the foundation of Falun Dafa. These are important values for all of us to be mindful of incorporating in our daily lives.”
The City of Saskatoon proclaims May 13, 2021 as Falun Dafa Day.
Video greeting from Mayor Markus Chambers of Winnipeg
Letter from Councilor Janice Lukes of Winnipeg