Hundreds of Falun Gong practitioners gathered on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on May 5 to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and the 34th anniversary of Falun Dafa’s public introduction.
The event drew support from 19 members of Parliament representing multiple political parties, as well as several written statements from Canadian political leaders. Speakers praised the spiritual discipline’s core principles while voicing concern over what they described as “escalating transnational repression” and intimidation threats linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is an ancient meditation practice rooted in the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance. Despite being peaceful in nature, the CCP launched a brutal campaign to eradicate the practice in July 1999. Since then, thousands have since perished at the hands of Chinese police, with many adherents today still undergoing routine surveillance, arbitrary travel bans, and arrests for refusing to renounce their faith.
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Universal values
Liberal MP Judy Sgro, co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Falun Gong, said the principles of Falun Dafa resonate deeply within Canadian society. “‘Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance’ are not only the teachings of Falun Dafa, but universal values that we all need to have,” Sgro said. “These principles resonate deeply in Canada and reflect the kind of society we aspire to build.”
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Conservative MP Scott Reid praised practitioners for maintaining their faith despite decades of persecution in China. “This steadfastness in the face of violence is truly extraordinary,” Reid said. “Through artistic performances such as Shen Yun, you have promoted the fundamental values of Chinese civilization around the world.”
He added, “Under circumstances where the CCP does not respect its own culture, it is you who have preserved these traditions and earned respect for them. The principles you uphold are the foundation of all civilization.”
Conservative deputy leader Melissa Lantsman said the event represented “pure Canadian values” and pledged continued support for Falun Gong practitioners in Parliament regardless of pressure from Beijing.
Lawmakers condemn transnational repression
Several MPs also referenced recent bomb threats targeting performances by Shen Yun Performing Arts, including incidents connected to Toronto’s Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts earlier this year. Founded in 2006, Shen Yun is the world’s premier classical Chinese dance and music company, showcasing the beauty and splendor of traditional Chinese culture and art prior to the ravages of communism. The New York-based company currently boasts eight equally sized troupes that tour and perform across the world simultaneously, putting on a brand new production each year.
Conservative MP Roman Baber recalled arriving at the venue on March 30 when an evacuation was triggered by a threatening email. Comparing the situation to his experience growing up under Soviet communism, Baber questioned why authoritarian regimes fear groups such as Falun Gong. “What is the Beijing regime afraid of?” said Baker, adding, “Are they afraid of people meditating quietly? Afraid of compassion and peace? What they truly fear is our moral clarity and our ability to unite people.”
Conservative MP James Bezan described such intimidation efforts as “transnational repression” and urged lawmakers to pass Bill C-219, legislation intended to strengthen Canada’s response to foreign interference and intimidation campaigns. “Ensuring that people are no longer subjected to these kinds of attacks is the responsibility of every member of Parliament and every level of government,” Bezan said.
Liberal MP Yvan Baker emphasized that threats targeting performers and audiences constitute serious criminal offenses that should be prosecuted through the legal system.
Cross-party support on Parliament Hill
MPs from multiple parties expressed solidarity throughout the event. Conservative MP Garnett Genuis thanked Falun Gong practitioners for what he described as their leadership in exposing foreign interference efforts in Canada. “People must have the freedom to express themselves, share ideas, create and present beautiful art without interference from foreign governments,” Genuis said. “We must fight for the freedoms that are essential to all Canadians.”
Green Party leader Elizabeth May paid tribute to the late former Canadian MP David Kilgour, who spent years investigating allegations of forced organ harvesting in China. “Human rights, the human spirit, and the peace and love brought by Falun Dafa will not be extinguished by Beijing,” May said.
Liberal MP Sameer Zuberi praised practitioners for their resilience under pressure and stressed that all individuals deserve dignity and freedom of belief regardless of background or faith.
Other lawmakers, including Larry Brock, Sandra Cobena, Dan Muys, and John Brassard, also spoke in support of Falun Gong practitioners and religious freedom.
Messages of support
Several politicians unable to attend in person submitted written messages of support. Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer wrote: “For three decades, even in the face of hatred and brutality, you have chosen peace and compassion. This is not only a spiritual practice, but an example for all humanity.”
Conservative MP Michael Cooper added: “I am proud to stand with you. Justice and kindness will ultimately triumph over oppression. Falun Dafa’s resilience is proof of the power of truth.”
The event featured group meditation exercises, musical performances, and appearances by the Tian Guo Marching Band. Many lawmakers also welcomed the announcement that Shen Yun is scheduled to return to Toronto’s Four Seasons Centre from June 26–28 for four performances following earlier disruptions. Several MPs described the return as “a victory for democracy” and “the return of justice.”
