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Indigenous Walk of Fame proposed for Duncan

A television producer from the Cowichan Valley wants to recreate a version of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame in Duncan
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The City of Duncan is considering the idea of becoming the site of an Indigenous Walk of Fame.

A television producer from the Cowichan Valley wants to recreate a version of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame in Duncan, but one that honours Canada’s indigenous actors.

Steve Sxwithul’txw is the president and producer of Kwassen Productions Inc., based out of Duncan and Victoria, which counts producing shows for the Aboriginal People Television Network among its credits.

Sxwithul’txw, a member of the Cowichan Tribes who grew up in the Cowichan Valley, is asking the City of Duncan to consider having a block of sidewalk downtown dedicated to recognizing indigenous people from Canada who have succeeded in the arts in film and television.

Sxwithul’txw said there’s currently no place in Canada where strictly indigenous talent, like Graham Greene and Adam Beach, in the film and television industries is recognized.

Duncan Mayor Phil Kent said council is interested in the idea, and will wait for more details from Sxwithul’txw before considering the proposal further.

“The location in Duncan would not only bring more awareness to the art forms in film and television, but would also recognize Duncan as a hub for this thriving industry,” he said.

“Having this location within Cowichan Tribes’ territory would bring not only recognition to the area, but bring in tourists from around the world. In addition to being the City of Totems, having such a walk of fame recognizing indigenous talent would be another step towards reconciliation with First Nations in the Valley.”

Sxwithul’txw said that if the city agrees to establish an indigenous walk of fame, a “committee of peers” will be formed and select which stars will be honoured.

He said the project would require funds and suggested arts and culture grants from both the province and Ottawa could be explored.

Kent said the idea is just in the concept phase at this time.

“We’re waiting to hear what specific role the city would be asked to play,” he said. “The idea is being driven by Sxwithul’txw and he said he’ll have a written proposal for us soon.”



Robert Barron

About the Author: Robert Barron

Since 2016, I've had had the pleasure of working with our dedicated staff and community in the Cowichan Valley.
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