(Minghui.org) Falun Gong practitioners from the Toronto area participated in the local Korean Harvest Festival on August 29 and 30 at Mel Lastman Square. At this multi-cultural event, practitioners introduced the ancient Chinese cultivation practice. Many people learned the exercises and signed the petition to condemn the ongoing, 16-year persecution of Falun Gong in China.

People learning the Falun Gong exercises

Talking to the public about Falun Gong

Signing the petition to condemn the persecution

Ian Hanecak from the local newspaper Snapd interviewed several of the practitioners during the event. He asked about the location and schedule of the exercise site, which coincidentally is at the same square where the festival was held.

Ian Hanecak from the local newspaper Snapd

Mr. Hanecak said that he was glad to be able to help to raise public awareness of the persecution as a means to help bring about its end.

Lesly Krumins, a retired teacher, signed the petition. She condemned the Chinese Communist Party for persecuting Falun Gong, and was glad to have a chance to express her support for those who appeal for their belief.

George Georgeio, a local artist, also signed the petition. He said that it is crazy that a government would forbid people from doing exercises that improve health.

Natalie, a student from Seneca College, was drawn to the book Zhuan Falun displayed at practitioners' booth. “I'll buy a copy at the Tianti Bookstore,” she said. “I've seen Falun Gong events twice before and I said to myself, 'the third time will be a sign that I should learn it,' and today is the third time.”

Natalie was horrified by the persecution in China, and hoped that her signature would help bring about its end.

After learning the exercises at the Falun Gong booth, college student Farid Green's shoulder pain was relieved. He said that he planned to join the practitioners at the exercise site the following week.