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DUNCAN - The famous Cowichan sweater of B.C.'s Coast Salish First Nation is bold, distinctive and now a Canadian Symbol. For centuries the Cowaichan people have been knitting the wool sweaters. It is one of 13 First Nations items, sites or persons that Ottawa has designated as having national historic significance. Environment Minister Peter Kent announced the designations Thursday, saying "they bring to life the spiritual, cultural and physical ties that First Nations have in Canada".
Chief Harvey Alphonse of the Cowaichan Tribes is pleased with the announcement. He hopes the designation will increase the demand of the sweaters. The wool clothing is a source of income for many. The sweaters are hand made. They take close to 75 hours to make. Each sweater has its own story. No two sweaters are the same and they cost hundreds of dollars. The Chief says the sweaters very popular in China and Japan.
Sweater maker Emily Sawyer-Smith from Duncan is excited about the governments announcement. Her heart was filled with joy when CTV told her the good news. She is honored that her art has been recognized but also wants a copyright on the sweaters. She says that the sweaters are a part their heritage and no one should be allowed to duplicate them.
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