The Miss Universe Canada organization has committed to developing a comprehensive costume guide following public criticism regarding the use of Indigenous-themed regalia during the pageant’s national costume segment. The controversy emerged last week in Windsor, Ontario, when contestants appeared in outfits inspired by Canada’s First Nations, drawing immediate backlash from prominent Indigenous voices.
Ashley Callingbull, the first Indigenous woman to hold the Miss Universe Canada title, crowned in 2024, publicly challenged the organization over the display. Callingbull, a member of the Enoch Cree Nation in Alberta, stated that witnessing the outfits was deeply distressing. She noted that she engaged directly with the pageant leadership to express that the use of such regalia constituted cultural appropriation rather than appreciation.
“I felt like I was educating them and giving them hell at the same time,” Callingbull told APTN National News. “I needed them to understand how bad this was and how much it affects other people.” Following her intervention, the organization issued a formal statement on social media acknowledging the feedback. “If any costume caused offense, hurt, or misunderstanding, please know that it was never our intention,” the statement read, adding that the organization remains committed to fostering an inclusive platform.
The pageant confirmed it is currently drafting a “comprehensive costume guide” to ensure that future national costume presentations are handled with “deep care, respect, and continuous evaluation.” Callingbull has expressed support for this shift, noting that systemic change requires vocal advocacy. The incident comes as the pageant prepares its 75th winner, Aslihan Morali, for the upcoming global Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico.