In some stories, the name of 'Toronto' originally  meant 'Meeting Place'. The name was used to describe the place on the shores of Lake Ontario where the Don River meets the Humber River. Accessible from many directions, Toronto became the meeting place where travelers could gather, exchanging goods, ideas, and support.

Today, Toronto is the meeting place of the world. We have residents from every country living in our city. Every belief system is represented, every culture is present. In a world of many cities, Toronto is unique for its connection to the rest of the world.

It is time to declare Toronto the Meeting Place of the World. We invite the world to watch us, and to come and visit. We set an example of harmonious living within an active economy. We offer not only excellent meeting facilities but also a range of multi-cultural entertainment, restaurants and festivals that is unmatched on our planet. We can turn Toronto into a destination of choice for visitors from around the world.

Totem Pole in Nathan Philips Square

In some native cultures, the totem pole represents community spirit, a carving that tells stories and shares values. Constructed and dedicated with spiritual reverence, the totem pole makes a statement of intent. Being made of wood, a totem pole rarely lasts over 100 years. Lets make a statement about our intent for the next hundred years.

Toronto International Marketplace

I would like to see the establishment of a very large vendor marketplace, perhaps on the current grounds of the CNE. With hundreds of stores and restaurants, outdoor markets and indoor facilities, the Toronto International Marketplace will provide a blend of multi-cultural shopping, food and entertainment throughout the year. Vendor selection will attempt to provide for the widest range of cultural experience. This marketplace could also be part of the bid and a main attraction for the Toronto 2015 World Expo.

International Falun Gong Celebration

On Canada Day, July 1, 2006, I did a series of Falun Gong exercises on the beach of Toronto. Besides the personal benefit, I did the exercises to celebrate the fact that I am free to practice Falun Gong in Canada. This is not the case in China.

Falun Gong is not a religion or cult, but is instead a series of exercises that enhance the body mind and spirit. However, due to the huge growth in popularity of Falun Gong, the Chinese government began persecuting and arresting anyone doing the exercises. Almost one hundred million Chinese had begun practicing the techniques before rules were enforced.

With advice from members of the Falun Gong community in Toronto, I would like to declare a day in Toronto as 'Falun Gong Celebration Day', or some similar title. Groups could be organized to practice throughout the city, and the beauty of Falun Gong could be shared with the general public. Toronto has an opportunity to demonstrate to the world the rights of individuals. We do not walk in fear, and we celebrate the rights of anyone who seeks personal growth.

International Falun Dafa Organization