Miss Universe Canada Contestants Apologize for Cultural Appropriation

The Miss Universe Canada pageant has faced controversy after two contestants wore outfits during the national costume segment that drew accusations of cultural appropriation.

One contestant, Karisa Haverkamp, wore a feathered headdress and had a red handprint painted on her face, a symbol associated with the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women movement. Haverkamp later expressed regret on Instagram, acknowledging that her costume caused hurt and offense to the Indigenous community and stating she had learned from the experience.

The second contestant, Jasleen Kaily, presented a costume themed “Arctic Beauty,” featuring a fur dress and boots, and wore two braids. Kaily also apologized, explaining her intention was to celebrate First Peoples of Canada, not to disrespect Indigenous culture.

Former Miss Universe Canada winner Ashley Callingbull, a Plains Cree woman, publicly addressed the incident during the pageant. She emphasized that in 2026, such cultural appropriation should not occur, highlighting that traditional headdresses are worn by respected Indigenous leaders.

The pageant organization has released a statement acknowledging the incident, noting that if any costume caused offense, it was unintentional. They plan to implement a “comprehensive costume guide” for future events to ensure presentations are thoughtful and respectful.

Pageant director Sonny Borrelli has invited Callingbull to serve as an official liaison for the costume segment moving forward. He stated that Miss Universe Canada takes “full responsibility” for the error and is committed to learning from the situation to improve future events. Callingbull remarked that education and understanding are key to reconciliation and ensuring proper respect for all cultures.

This is not the first time the pageant has faced similar criticism; in 2015, a contestant’s totem pole costume also led to accusations of cultural appropriation.

Source: Nile Post