January 28, 2025

Recognized on January 4, National Ribbon Skirt Day acknowledges the significance of ribbon skirts within Indigenous culture and honours the experience of Isabella Kulak, a young girl from the Cote First Nation in Saskatchewan. During a “formal dress day” at her school in 2022, Isabella was ridiculed for wearing her ribbon skirt, an incident that prompted widespread outrage and advocacy on social media.  

This collective response led to a school march calling for recognition of the cultural importance of ribbon skirts, ultimately contributing to the establishment of National Ribbon Skirt Day in 2023. 

The ribbon skirt is described as a powerful symbol representing the identity, traditions, and resilience of Indigenous women. It emphasizes the importance of cultural expression and serves as a reminder that Indigenous teachings need to be cherished and recognized across generations. The skirts are personalized to reflect the wearer, with colours and styles often chosen in accordance with specific ceremonies and traditional knowledge. Their design typically reaches the ankles, allowing them to touch the earth and symbolize a deep connection to Mother Earth. 

My ribbon skirt is symbolic to me of my ancestors and grounds me in my connection to Mother Earth as a Mother, Aunty and Grandmother. It gives me strength and courage to keep moving forward in a good way.

Cathy Woods, Anishinaabe, Naicatchewenin First Nation
Indigenous Peoples’ Engagement and Research Council

 

In contemporary society, the ribbon skirt has evolved and diversified, appearing at numerous cultural events, including Powwows, and even making a mark on international fashion stages like New York and Paris. The fashion journey of Indigenous designers, such as Alyssia Sutherland from Peguis First Nation, is gaining recognition, highlighting the intersection of culture and modern fashion. 

As the narrative around National Ribbon Skirt Day gains traction, it holds significant implications for discussions on cultural awareness and sensitivity. In a world increasingly focused on inclusivity, acknowledging the cultural significance of items like the ribbon skirt is essential for promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous identities and traditions. 

My ribbon skirt details the intricate details of my culture and heritage as an Indigenous woman with Métis roots.

Catherine Turner, Métis, Red River Settlement Indigenous Liaison Manager, Can-SOLVE CKD Operations Team

 

 

 

 

 

The ribbon skirt gifted to me by my kookum (grandmother) represents my journey of re-learning and reconnecting to my First Nations culture. It is a symbol of strength and resilience. It also serves as a reminder that ribbon skirts come in many different forms, each one holding its own story and significance.

Jocelyn Jones, Anishinaabe, Shoal Lake 40 First Nation
Indigenous Initiatives Manager, Can-SOLVE CKD Network Operations Team

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