Miss Universe Canada organizers have pledged to introduce new costume guidelines after outfits worn by two contestants at the 2026 pageant drew criticism over cultural appropriation. Former Miss Universe Canada Ashley Callingbull, who is Plains Cree from Enoch Cree Nation, raised the issue while hosting the event, saying the pageant needed to acknowledge the concerns, learn from the controversy and ensure Indigenous cultures are represented respectfully.
During the national costume competition in Windsor, Ont., contestant Karisa Haverkamp appeared in a turquoise, black and white feathered headdress with a red hand painted on her cheek, while Jasleen Kaily wore an “Arctic Beauty” outfit featuring fringes, braids and a maple leaf design. Callingbull said she was shocked when she saw the costumes and questioned how they had been approved. Miss World Canada 2022 Emma Morrison also criticized the outfits, describing them as culturally inappropriate and raising concerns about the use of imagery associated with Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Miss Universe Canada director Sonny Borrelli subsequently apologized on behalf of the organization and said new guidelines and cultural consultation would be introduced. Callingbull is expected to serve as a cultural liaison moving forward, while the organization says it is developing a comprehensive costume guide establishing standards for future competitions.
Both contestants also addressed the controversy publicly. Haverkamp acknowledged that her outfit had caused hurt and offence and said she had learned from the incident, while Kaily apologized and said she had intended to recognize and celebrate Indigenous peoples rather than disrespect or misrepresent Indigenous culture. Callingbull said the controversy demonstrates why speaking out and improving Indigenous education and representation remain important.
