Contestants Apologize for Costumes
Contestants Karisa Haverkamp and Jasleen Kaily from the Miss Universe Canada pageant apologized for their outfits, which sparked criticism for cultural insensitivity. The national costume segment aimed to honor Canadian heritage, but their choices backfired.[S1][S2]
Haverkamp acknowledged in an Instagram post that her outfit caused hurt and offense, saying she appreciated what she learned. Kaily also apologized, stating her intention was never to disrespect Indigenous culture but to celebrate one of Canada's First Peoples. The pageant's statement expressed regret if any costume caused offense, emphasizing it was not their intention.[S1][S2]
Former Winner Speaks Out
Ashley Callingbull, the first Indigenous woman to win Miss Universe Canada, interrupted the finals on Saturday to address the issue. She said it was 2026 and 'we should know better,' and that cultural appropriation had occurred. Callingbull, who is Plains Cree from the Enoch Cree Nation, said she was not present when the costumes were worn but saw them on video and was shocked.[S1][S2][S4]
Callingbull contacted pageant director Sonny Borrelli to express her concerns. On stage, she noted that the organization's initial statement lacked a direct apology. Borrelli then took responsibility, saying they would learn from the mistake and make it right. He also invited Callingbull to serve as the costume segment's official cultural liaison moving forward.[S1][S4]
Pageant Announces New Guidelines
Miss Universe Canada will establish a costume guide to prevent cultural insensitivity in future events, following criticism from former winner Ashley Callingbull, who emphasized that cultural appropriation is unacceptable.[S1][S3]
This is not the first time the pageant has faced criticism for cultural appropriation. In 2015, a contestant wore a totem pole costume, which the organization called a 'misunderstanding.' Callingbull had previously recommended hiring a cultural consultant. The incident has also drawn reactions from other Indigenous figures, including Miss World Canada 2022 Emma Morrison, who said the costumes were inappropriate and sexualized Indigenous people.[S1][S4]
