Earthquake victims remembered at Ecuadorian art exhibition launch

TORONTO, April 25, 2016 /CNW/ - Mayor John Tory was joined by Councillor Cesar Palacio (Ward 17 Davenport), MPP Cristina Martins, the Consul General of Ecuador in Toronto, Rolando Vera Rodas, and members of Toronto's Ecuadorian community this evening to collectively remember those affected by the recent earthquake in Ecuador.

"We remember those lost in this tragedy and our thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones, their homes and businesses due to the earthquake in Ecuador," said Mayor Tory. "We have gathered in friendship with Toronto's own Ecuadorian community to extend our sympathy to Ecuador during this difficult this time." 

This remembrance occurred at the launch of the Ecuadorian art exhibition at City Hall on April 25. Members of the Ecuadorian community annually gather at the event, which commemorates the Friendship City Agreement between Toronto and Quito, Ecuador's capital city.

"As an Ecuadorian and as a Torontonian I am deeply shocked and saddened by the horrific repercussions of the earthquake and aftershocks," said Councillor Palacio. "Through our annual art exhibition and our agreement of friendship, we have gathered to honour the lives of those who have passed, and those that remain."

The exhibit showcases 40 artworks by three prominent artists from Ecuador – Edison Hernan Boada, Juan Francisco Idrovo and Carlos Edmundo Montoya. The exhibit will be displayed in the City Hall rotunda until April 29.

The exhibit is presented by the Association of Ecuadorians in Ontario, the Consulate General of Ecuador and the City of Toronto. The Friendship City Agreement between the Cities of Toronto and Quito was established in 2006.

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SOURCE City of Toronto

Media contact: Shane Gerard, Strategic Communications, 416-397-5711, [email protected]