Ashley Callingbull, the first Indigenous First Nations winner of Miss Universe Canada, has reported facing significant backlash, including death threats and hate speech, after she paused the 2026 Miss Universe Canada pageant to protest what she described as cultural appropriation. Callingbull, 36, was hosting the final on Saturday when she stopped the event to address contestants wearing costumes she deemed offensive to Indigenous peoples.
"During this week, during the national costume competition, there was cultural appropriation done toward Indigenous people," Callingbull stated to the audience. "It's 2026, we should know better. More importantly, a part of reconciliation is that we educate and learn and understand and move on from these things in a good way."
Callingbull specifically cited costumes worn by contestants Karisa Haverkamp and Jasleen Kaily. Haverkamp wore a feathered headdress with a red handprint on her cheek, intended to represent the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls movement. Kaily wore an Arctic-inspired outfit resembling traditional Inuit clothing.
Callingbull told People magazine that seeing the costumes felt "like a slap in the face to the Indigenous community." She added that she felt a responsibility to speak out, even though she had not informed the pageant organizers of her intention to address the issue during the final.
Following her remarks, Sonny Borrelli, director of Miss Universe Canada, addressed the crowd, stating that the pageant did not intend to offend anyone and would learn from the incident. The organization announced it is creating a comprehensive costume guide for future contestants to ensure all presentations are thoughtful and respectful.
Haverkamp and Kaily both issued apologies on Instagram. Haverkamp acknowledged her outfit caused hurt and offense, while Kaily stated her intention was to recognize and celebrate Indigenous culture. Callingbull has reportedly been offered a role as a cultural liaison for the Canadian competition, though it is unclear if she has accepted. She continues to advocate for using one's voice, stating, "Regardless if people try to silence you or you feel like the world is against you, use your voice and speak up because you have no idea the impact it can make."