Ontario – Today, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) proudly honours National Ribbon Skirt Day, a celebration of identity, resilience, and cultural reclamation.
National Ribbon Skirt Day was inspired by the experience of Isabella Kulak, an Indigenous girl from Saskatchewan who was shamed for wearing a ribbon skirt to a "formal dress day" at her school. Manitoba Senator Mary Jane McCallum championed a bill in Parliament to recognize National Ribbon Skirt Day which received unanimous support and passed into law in December 2022. The first National Ribbon Skirt Day was celebrated on January 4, 2023.
“The Ribbon Skirt is an important personal reflection. It’s a focal part of teaching the importance of the Ribbon Skirt and carrying yourself in a good way. It connects us to being an ambassador and advocate for the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island. The ribbon skirt is part of the sacred bundle from the plant world and the four elements that give us a good life. The skirt is a covering for our Wigwam, our teepee, and our shelters, to keep us warm and the fires burning well, sharing a good nurturing environment. The skirt creates a circle that gently touches the earth our mother, and how she always takes such good care of all living things,” shared Audrey DeRoy, Cultural Program Manager, ONWA.
ONWA’s programs empower Indigenous women and their families to create their own ribbon skirts, which fosters pride and cultural continuity. Participating in ceremonies while wearing ribbon skirts allows us to connect with our traditions and celebrate our rich cultural history.
“Ribbon Skirt Day is a celebration of our past, present, and future, and a testament to our culture's enduring strength, beauty and connection to all things.” Ingrid Green, Interim CEO ONWA
To learn more about National Ribbon Skirt Day, visit:
For more information and media inquiries, contact:
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca