Toronto African Film and Music Festival Says that Toronto Council Is on the verge of shutting down this weekend's events on Toronto Plaza Hotel's Wilson St grounds
Statement issued a few minutes ago by festival spokesman Paris Rogers
As an organization, we make a special appeal to our supporters and those within the GTA community to help us see this Vision become a reality. As of yesterday, the City
Council has been trying to take measures to impede our festival by refusing to endorse this event as they assume the event will be similar to previous allegedly offending event that took place on the same grounds (1677 Wilson Ave, Toronto Plaza Hotel grounds) over a month ago. The Toronto African Film & Music Festival has no affiliations or connections with any other events in the City and therefore is being discriminated against solely because of it’s assumed demographic.
TAFMF is a multicultural festival that encourages and fosters diversity of all cultures and ethnicities. Further, City Council is using the obscure excuse of improper zoning to punish our event partner, the Toronto Plaza Hotel, and effectively legislate them out of the entertainment event business, regardless of the nature of any future event, indefinitely. This is wrong. This is unfair. This is anti-business and contrary to the City’s goal to become a larger hub for the music industry. Lastly, it is unbecoming of a city that prides itself as a ‘summer festival city’.
Previously issued Press Release:
Toronto, Ontario – August 26th, 2014 – Returning for its fourth year, the Toronto African Film and Music Festival (TAFMF) comes alive showcasing films, musical artists, food and fashion from over 50 countries from August 27 to 31st.
This year’s festival will screen 3 world premier films & feature 15 musical acts, 3 fashion shows, and 30 marketplace vendors celebrating the rich & diverse cultural mosaic that is Africa. This Year’s festival starts on August 27 with the opening of our Film Festival at the Royal Cinema, 608 College St, just west of Bathurst in Toronto Tickets are $15 in advance $20 at the door. There will be a combination of World Premiers and North America Premiers to enjoy.
From Aug 29th to Aug 31st, we are pleased to announce our three day music festival, allowing families to experience the very best in local & international African talents as well as emerging artists. This year promises to be our biggest yet, with entertainment for the whole family. Prices are $15 Adult, $12 Student/Senior, and $5 for children 12 and under.
We are excited to announce a new addition to our music festival, TAFMF will be hosting a Family Day on Friday, August 29th, sponsored by CVR Entertainment Empire, with bouncy castles, music and a carnival atmosphere for the whole family from 12 noon until 9 pm!
For Interviews contact Paris Roger, Executive Director att 647-852-4072 Call Paris Roger, Executive Director at 647-852-4072 494 Mortimer Ave, Suite 102, East York, M4J 2G7
