The Miss Universe Canada pageant has once again found itself at the center of a cultural controversy, this time involving accusations of cultural appropriation. The incident, which occurred during the national costume segment, has sparked a heated debate and prompted a former winner to take a stand. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of representing diverse cultures in beauty pageants and the need for sensitivity and respect.
The controversy began when two contestants, Karisa Haverkamp and Jasleen Kaily, wore costumes that were deemed culturally insensitive. Haverkamp's outfit featured a feather headdress, a symbol of respect for Indigenous leaders, and a red handprint on her face, representing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) movement. Kaily's costume, inspired by Arctic Beauty, included a fur dress, mukluks, and braids, which can hold deep cultural significance for First Nations people.
Ashley Callingbull, a Plains Cree woman and the first First Nations woman to win Miss Universe Canada, interrupted the final event to address the issue. She expressed her disappointment, stating, 'It's 2026, we should know better.' Callingbull emphasized the presence of cultural appropriation, despite not being present during the costume segment, as she had seen the outfits on video.
Haverkamp and Kaily quickly apologized, acknowledging the hurt and offense caused. Haverkamp's Instagram post revealed her intention to learn from the experience, while Kaily's statement emphasized her desire to celebrate and recognize Indigenous culture without disrespect. These apologies, however, did not satisfy everyone.
Callingbull, in her role as a former winner and now the costume segment's official liaison, criticized the pageant's initial response. She believed the organization's statement lacked a direct apology and invited the pageant director, Sonny Borrelli, to address the issue. Borrelli took responsibility, promising to learn from the mistake and make improvements.
This incident is not an isolated case for Miss Universe Canada. In 2015, the organization faced similar criticism for a totem pole costume worn by Paola Nunuz Valdez, which was intended to represent her Dominican heritage. Callingbull had previously recommended hiring a cultural consultant to avoid such misunderstandings.
The debate surrounding cultural appropriation in beauty pageants is complex. While these events can provide a platform for cultural celebration, they also risk perpetuating stereotypes and misrepresenting traditions. It is crucial for pageant organizers to prioritize cultural sensitivity and education, as suggested by Callingbull. By implementing comprehensive guidelines and involving cultural consultants, the Miss Universe Canada organization can strive to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all participants and viewers.
In my opinion, this incident serves as a reminder that beauty pageants must go beyond superficial beauty standards. They should be a platform for cultural appreciation and education. By embracing diversity and sensitivity, these pageants can become a catalyst for positive change, fostering understanding and respect among different cultures. It is a challenging task, but one that is essential for the evolution of such competitions.
