Former Miss Universe Canada winner Ashley Callingbull caused a stir during the 2026 Miss Universe Canada pageant by addressing instances of cultural appropriation. At the event, just before the top 20 contestants were to be announced, Callingbull spoke out, emphasizing the need for education and understanding to move past such mistakes.
The national pageantry costume competition, held on August 4 in Windsor, Ont., featured 35 contestants vying for the crown. During this segment, Karisa Haverkamp wore a feathered headdress and a red handprint on her cheek, while Jasleen Kaily donned an “Arctic Beauty” costume with braids and mukluks.
In response to these outfits, which offended Indigenous people, Callingbull expressed shock and disappointment, highlighting the sacred significance of headdresses in First Nations culture. She demanded an apology and called for better respect and understanding moving forward.
Director Sonny Borrelli assured that guidelines and cultural liaisons would be implemented in future events. Miss World Canada 2022 Emma Morrison also criticized the costumes as culturally inappropriate and sexualizing Indigenous people. Both Haverkamp and Kaily acknowledged the offense caused and expressed their commitment to learning and respecting Indigenous cultures.
Miss Universe Canada issued a statement expressing regret if any costume caused offense and announced plans to establish clear guidelines for future pageants. Aleria McKay, founder of Miss Indigenous Canada, condemned the cultural appropriation and lack of understanding displayed at the event.
Overall, the incident underscored the importance of respecting Indigenous cultures and the need for education and awareness to prevent such missteps in the future.