(Clearwisdom.net) July 1, 2009 was the 142nd anniversary of Canada's independence. Falun Gong practitioners in Toronto were invited to participate in the biggest Canada Day parade in Cambridge. Their performance received commendations from the hosting organization and spectators alike. Nearly 40,000 spectators watched the practitioners' band performance and lion dance.

Falun Gong practitioners participate in the biggest Canada Day parade in Cambridge

Spectators give warm applause to the Falun Gong procession

The procession was composed of the Divine Land Marching Band and the lion dance team, and both were warmly welcomed by the spectators. The band was composed of nearly one hundred practitioners wearing blue jackets. They played "Falun Dafa Is Great," "Drums and Trumpets Shake the Ten Directions," "The Fa Rectifies the Universe," and "O Canada."

Ms. Jacqueline Murray, parade coordinator

Ms. Jacqueline Murray, a parade coordinator, said that the band performance was fantastic in the St. Patrick's Day Parade which is why they were invited to come again, and that their performance was great once again. She also said that the lion dancing was good and that it represents Chinese traditional culture, an indicator of Canada's diversity.

Ms. Zhou from Shandong, China watched the parade and said, "I was delighted to see the splendid Chinese procession in the parade. They were very energetic." She said that she would learn about Falun Gong on-line after returning home.

Mr. Wu from Wuhan, China said that he was a local shop owner, "I am happy to see the Divine Land Marching Band. It was exciting. I wish they would come more often."

Wanda, one of the spectators

Wanda has two adopted Chinese children. She said that she enjoyed the Chinese procession and that the children were especially excited to see the lion dancing since it was traditional Chinese culture.

Mr. George Robinson and Ms. Jenny Robinson watch the parade

Mr. George Robinson and Ms. Jenny Robinson asked the reporter where the band was from. George said, "I have never seen such a good band. This is the best band I have seen. Thank you for bringing us the best gift for Canada Day."

John hopes that the Falun Gong procession will come again next year

Parade worker John said to the reporter, "I have never seen such a good band performance at the parade. I hope they will come again next year."

Bonnie danced along with the band's music

Cambridge resident Bonnie was happy to dance along with the band's music. She said, "Beautiful. The costumes, colors, and music were merged together and gives off a feeling of excitement."

Spectators Agnes and Mark appreciate the band's performance

When the band passed by, Agnes stood up to applaud. She said, "Fantastic. I appreciate you bringing such a splendid performance, a gift, for Canada Day."

Tina said that it's wonderful to see such a splendid band

Spectator Tina, wearing a traditional Chinese dress, said that it was wonderful to see such a splendid band.

Anna, Dora and Adrianne from Scotland

Anna, Dora and Adrianne are tourists from Scotland. They said that the performance was wonderful, and that they were fortunate to see it.