Miss Universe Canada Sparks Backlash Over Indigenous Costumes

A controversy has erupted at the 2026 Miss Universe Canada competition in Windsor, Ontario, after two contestants appeared in Indigenous-inspired costumes. The national costume segment, meant to celebrate Canada's identity, has instead sparked a serious conversation about cultural respect.

The controversy unfolded on August 4, when contestants were invited to present looks representing aspects of Canada's heritage and identity. Contestant Karisa Haverkamp appeared in a feathered headdress traditionally associated with respected Indigenous leaders in North America, along with a red handprint on her face, a symbol connected to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement.

Another contestant, Jasleen Kaily, presented a look titled “Arctic Beauty,” featuring an all-fur dress, fur boots known as mukluks, and two braids. The use of these culturally significant elements quickly became a point of debate, with critics questioning whether Indigenous traditions and symbols had been used without sufficient cultural context or consultation.

Ashley Callingbull, the first Indigenous woman to win Miss Universe Canada in 2024, was co-hosting this year's competition and interrupted the final event to address the controversy. Callingbull expressed her shock and disappointment, stating that she had previously represented the organisation as its first Indigenous winner and could not believe that the costumes had been approved.

Callingbull contacted the pageant director, Sonny Borrelli, to ask who had approved the regalia and stressed the importance of having clear guidelines to determine whether contestants were Indigenous before culturally specific items are incorporated into pageant presentations.

Following the backlash, Miss Universe Canada has responded to the controversy, acknowledging the concerns and promising to take steps to ensure cultural respect and sensitivity in future events. The organisation has not yet announced any specific actions or changes.

The controversy has sparked a wider conversation about cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting Indigenous traditions and symbols. It has also highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of Indigenous cultures and the importance of consultation and collaboration with Indigenous communities.

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect, particularly in the context of Indigenous cultures. The use of Indigenous symbols and traditions without proper understanding or consultation can be seen as disrespectful and insensitive.

The Miss Universe Canada controversy serves as a reminder of the need for greater awareness and understanding of Indigenous cultures and the importance of respecting Indigenous traditions and symbols. It also highlights the need for clear guidelines and protocols to ensure cultural respect and sensitivity in future events.

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting Indigenous traditions and symbols. It has also highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of Indigenous cultures and the importance of consultation and collaboration with Indigenous communities.

In conclusion, the Miss Universe Canada controversy has sparked a serious conversation about cultural respect and the importance of respecting Indigenous traditions and symbols. It has highlighted the need for greater awareness and understanding of Indigenous cultures and the importance of consultation and collaboration with Indigenous communities.