Miss Universe Canada has found itself at the centre of a cultural appropriation row after two contestants wore Indigenous-inspired outfits during the pageant's national costume segment. The looks — which featured a feathered headdress, fur clothing and traditional-style boots — quickly drew criticism, including from Indigenous former winner Ashley Callingbull.
The controversy has since prompted apologies from the contestants and a response from the pageant organisation. Miss Universe Canada has also promised to introduce clearer rules around cultural representation after Callingbull questioned the decision to allow the outfits on stage.
Miss Universe Canada contestants apologise for cultural appropriation in wearing indigenous dress - BBC News #culture #sdoh https://t.co/iu83EPMn0s
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Indigenous-Inspired Looks Trigger Backlash
The controversy emerged during the 2026 Miss Universe Canada competition in Windsor, Ontario. The contestants presented outfits intended to represent aspects of Canadian culture and heritage.
Karisa Haverkamp appeared in a turquoise, black and white feathered headdress and wore a red handprint on her face. The red handprint is associated with the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement.
Another contestant, Jasleen Kaily, wore an outfit titled 'Arctic Beauty' that consisted of fur clothing, boots known as mukluks, and two braids.
The Miss Universe Canada website describes the national costume segment as a celebration of Canadian culture and heritage, with contestants asked to create looks inspired by Canada's traditions, symbols and history.
But the decision to use Indigenous cultural elements as pageant costumes was met with criticism.
Former Winner Speaks Out: 'I Was Very Upset'
Ashley Callingbull, a Plains Cree woman from Enoch Cree Nation, was among those who questioned the outfits. The former Miss Universe Canada winner was also co-hosting the competition when she addressed the issue.
Speaking to CBC, Callingbull said she was shocked when she saw the costumes. She went on to say: 'My jaw just dropped on the floor. This cannot be real. I just couldn't get over that this was happening. Who allowed this on stage? Who approved this?'
She also described the use of traditional and sacred elements in the outfits as cultural appropriation. 'Anything traditional or sacred should not be allowed. I was very, very upset,' Callingbull added.
Yet, she also stressed the importance of education and understanding, particularly in the context of reconciliation.
Her concerns carry particular weight. Callingbull made history in 2024 when she became the first Indigenous woman to win the Miss Universe Canada title.
Contestants Apologise After Costume Controversy
On Instagram, Haverkamp later addressed concerns raised by the Indigenous community over her costume. 'I acknowledge and recognise that my outfit for the national costume caused hurt and offence,' she said in a statement, adding that she appreciated what she had learned from the experience.
Kaily also apologised, saying her intention had never been to disrespect or misrepresent Indigenous culture. She said she had hoped to recognise and celebrate one of Canada's First Peoples.
Miss Universe Canada Promises Changes
Miss Universe Canada has acknowledged the controversy and said it was never the organisation's intention to cause offence, hurt or misunderstanding.
The pageant has now promised to create a comprehensive costume guide setting clearer standards for future competitions. Callingbull has also been invited to act as an official liaison for the costume segment, giving Indigenous representation a more direct role in future decisions.
