Former Miss Universe Canada titleholder Ashley Callingbull took a stand at the 2026 Miss Universe Canada pageant, addressing what she viewed as instances of cultural appropriation during the event. At the moment when the top 20 contestants were about to be announced by director Sonny Borrelli, Callingbull seized the opportunity to express her concerns.
She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and learning from mistakes, particularly in the context of reconciliation. The incident in question occurred at the national pageantry costume competition held in Windsor, Ont., where 35 contestants vied for the crown. Two contestants, Karisa Haverkamp and Jasleen Kaily, wore outfits that sparked controversy.
Haverkamp donned a turquoise, black, and white feathered headdress, along with a red handprint on her cheek, while Kaily wore an “Arctic Beauty” costume featuring fringes, braids, mukluks, and a maple leaf cutout. Callingbull, a Plains Cree from the Enoch Cree Nation in Alberta and the first Indigenous woman to win Mrs. Universe in 2015, expressed shock and disappointment at the lack of cultural sensitivity displayed by the contestants.
Headdresses hold significant cultural and spiritual value in First Nations communities, with each eagle feather symbolizing earned honor and respect. Callingbull stressed the need for proper education and respect for Indigenous traditions, urging for sincere apologies and cultural awareness.
In response to the controversy, Borrelli assured Callingbull of implementing guidelines and cultural liaisons for future events. Miss World Canada 2022 Emma Morrison criticized the costumes as culturally inappropriate and highlighted the need for better understanding and representation of Indigenous cultures. Both contestants, Haverkamp and Kaily, expressed remorse and a commitment to learning from the incident.
The Miss Universe Canada organization issued a statement expressing regret if any offense was caused and pledged to establish clear guidelines for future competitions. The incident underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity and accurate representation in pageantry events.