Toronto, November 5, 2025 — The celebration and awards gala marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the 6th Toronto Dragon Culture Festival was held at the Grand Chinese Cuisine Banquet Hall. More than 300 guests from political, community, and cultural circles attended the event.
Distinguished guests included Acting Consul General of China in Toronto Cheng Hongbo, Director of the Political and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office Zhang Chaofeng, Consul Wang Zehua, Richmond Hill Councillor Godwin Chan, Director of the China National Tourist Office in Toronto Wu Ning, Malaysia’s Honorary Consul Henry Leong Bee Lee, former MP Geng Tan, and former Ontario MPP Michael Chan, along with leaders from various community and cultural organizations.
The evening began with a video review highlighting key moments from the year’s commemorative and cultural events — from memorial ceremonies and performances to exhibitions and academic forums — reflecting the Chinese Canadian community’s dedication to preserving history, culture, and peace.
Zhang Jian, Chair of the Organizing Committee and President of the Federation of Chinese Canadian Cultural and Art Associations, recalled the year-long series of activities co-hosted by community groups from Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, and Calgary. More than 10,000 people participated, including hundreds of youth, to help the next generation understand the sacrifices of their forebears.
“Eighty years ago, the Chinese people defended their nation with courage and sacrifice,” Zhang said. “The victory restored national unity and brought China back to the world stage. The spirit of the War of Resistance continues to inspire us toward unity and peace.”
Zhang emphasized that the Dragon Culture Festival has become a leading platform for sharing Chinese culture in Canada, symbolizing the values of perseverance, harmony, and dedication. He expressed gratitude to sponsors, organizers, and volunteers whose efforts made the events a success.
Acting Consul General Cheng Hongbo congratulated the organizers, noting that over the past eight years the Toronto Dragon Culture Festival has grown into a prominent cultural event showcasing both Chinese heritage and Canada’s multicultural vitality. He praised the 80th Anniversary Commemoration for “demonstrating the overseas Chinese community’s remembrance of history and commitment to peace.”
“Although the events have concluded, the mission of carrying forward China’s fine traditions and cultural spirit will never end,” Cheng said. He added that as China–Canada relations continue to warm and travel resumes, people-to-people exchanges will deepen. “The Consulate General will continue to support the community in promoting Chinese culture and enhancing mutual understanding.”
Nancy Siew, Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the Canadian Military Police Academy and former Citizenship Judge, commended the organizers for using art and culture to convey remembrance and peace. “Music, painting, and dance all speak to the human heart,” she said. “If we do not tell these stories now, who will? If not today, when?”
The gala featured several award presentations recognizing individuals and groups who made outstanding contributions to the Dragon Culture Festival and the 80th Anniversary commemorative events. Awards were presented by Cheng Hongbo, Nancy Siew, Zhang Jian, and Artistic Director Zhang Wei.
Artistic performances, including saxophone and vocal renditions of Give Me a Kiss, Song of Two Lands, and China, I Love You, enlivened the evening and drew enthusiastic applause.
In his closing remarks, Zhang Wei said the celebration was not only a recognition of past achievements but also an inspiration for the future. “Culture has no boundaries, and art connects hearts,” he said. “May this be the beginning of a new chapter in promoting cultural exchange and understanding between China and Canada.”
The evening concluded with warm applause and group photos. Guests remarked that the commemorative events deepened awareness of China’s wartime history among overseas Chinese and allowed the “Spirit of the Dragon” to continue soaring across Canada’s multicultural sky.（LJI by Rita)
