New Heritage Minute scores a touchdown
February 13, 2024
Alberta’s government is proud to sponsor a new Heritage Minute honouring CFL Hall of Famer and Alberta’s 16th lieutenant-governor Norman Kwong.
Historica Canada’s new Heritage Minute provides Alberta with an opportunity to promote and celebrate the province’s unique cultural identity and heritage through the story of Kwong, a trailblazer. Alberta’s government helped local talent create this made-in-Alberta Heritage Minute through the Alberta Made Production Grant and the Training and Mentorship Incentive, which together totalled more than $88,000.
“The story of the Hon. Norman Kwong exemplifies the Alberta pioneering spirit and multicultural heritage. Kwong overcame tremendous obstacles including racism and discrimination, persevering to become a true leader and a legend. This Heritage Minute will keep this great Albertan’s story alive for generations to come.”
Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women
The newly released Heritage Minute was funded in part by the Government of Canada and co-produced by Calgary-based Michelle Wong and Brent Kawchuk of Danny Rockett Productions. Filmed in Calgary, the English version is narrated by Calgary-born Andrew Phung of Kim’s Convenience and stars Patrick Kwok-Choon from Star Trek: Discovery and Wynonna Earp.
“My family and I are honoured and humbled with the production of the Heritage Minute that encapsulates the life of our father. The people that worked on the project have done an excellent job in highlighting his life and we hope his story provides inspiration to future generations.”
Greg Kwong, son of Norman Kwong
Kwong had many accomplishments, including being the first Chinese Canadian to play in the CFL and hold the position of lieutenant-governor. The Hall of Famer played for both the Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Eskimos, was the youngest player to win a Grey Cup, won numerous CFL awards and held more than 30 records. He was an entrepreneur and leader, serving as president and general manager of the Calgary Stampeders and as the national chairman of the Canadian Consultative Council on Multiculturalism. Kwong became a member of the Order of Canada in 1998 and Alberta’s 16th lieutenant-governor on Jan. 20, 2005.
Quick facts
The Training and Mentorship Incentive portion of the grant supported 10 trainees in various craft and trade positions such as art department assistant, electrics trainee, assistant locations manager, wardrobe assistant and VFX assistant.
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