Miss Universe Canada contestants apologize after cultural appropriation controversy

During the Miss Universe Canada pageant held in Windsor, Ontario, former titleholder Ashley Callingbull interrupted the competition to address concerns regarding cultural appropriation in the national costume segment.

Callingbull, a Plains Cree woman from the Enoch Cree Nation, challenged the use of Indigenous cultural elements by contestants. Specifically, Jasleen Kaily faced criticism for an ‘Arctic Beauty’ costume featuring mukluks and braids, while Karisa Haverkamp was scrutinized for wearing a feathered headdress and a red handprint associated with Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Both contestants have since issued apologies. The Miss Universe Canada organization stated it intends to implement clearer guidelines for national costumes in future competitions to prevent similar occurrences.