Canada: The Divine Land Marching Band Performs in Three Parades in Two Days

On June 16th and 17th, the Divine Land Marching Band, consisting Falun Gong practitioners in Toronto, was invited to perform at the Sound of Music Festival Parade in Burlington, the Flower City Parade in Brampton, and the Multicultural Parade in Oshawa.

The Divine Land Marching Band performing in the Sound of Music Festival Parade in Burlington

The Sound of Music Festival Parade in Burlington started at 11 o'clock in the morning. Among the bands from Canada and America, the Divine Land Marching Band is the only Chinese band. This was their third time participating this parade.

The performances of the Divine Land Marching Band were warmly welcomed by the spectators. The colourful costumes and beautiful music won praise from many local citizens. John Duff, who has lived in Burlington for 58 years, applauded the band. “It is a great band. They smile the whole time they perform. I liked it. It is great that they have come to Burlington. I've never seen them before. They are excellent,” Mr. Duff said.

The Flower City Parade in Brampton

The Flower City Parade in Brampton was held in the afternoon. Along with the Divine Land Marching Band, the Falun Gong group's waist drum troupe also played in the parade.

Mr. and Ms. Wang, who immigrated to Canada six years ago, watched the parade. “They are well trained, obviously. I watch the parade every year. The Divine Land Marching Band is the most impressive.”

Mr. Wang said that he heard about Falun Gong in 1993, and he knew about the persecution. “The Communist Party's propaganda against Falun Gong is nothing but lies,” said Mr. Wang.

At the Multicultural Festival Parade in Oshawa, the Divine Land Marching Band was invited to play the national anthem of Canada. Ms. Zhang, a Chinese immigrant, said: “A group of Chinese were invited to play the Canadian anthem at a Western festival. I am so proud of them!”