National Ribbon Skirt Day was held across the country on Thursday, Jan. 4.
In northeastern Alberta’s Lakeland region, officials in Lac La Biche County invited community members and their own staff to a localized ceremony to recognize the day and to explain the meanings and origins of the colourful and symbolic garments.
The event, which took place at the Lac La Biche County Protective Services building, was put on by the Lac La Biche County Focus Indigenous, a committee created by municipal employees to educate and highlight indigenous culture in the community and the workplace. The intent of the local ceremony was to recognize and create greater awareness towards the significance of the ribbon skirts in current Indigenous culture and its connections to the past.
In a statement on Thursday to recognize the second year the event has been recognized, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted the long history — and the more recent relevance — of the traditional garments.
" Ribbon skirts have been worn by First Nations and Métis women, girls, and gender-diverse people for generations. With their vibrant colours, bold patterns, and intricate designs, they are a symbol of pride and offer a deep connection to Mother Earth,” stated Trudeau, explaining that more recent events have led to a need for more education and awareness. “Observed for the first-time last year, National Ribbon Skirt Day commemorates the experience of Isabella Kulak, a member of Cote First Nation in Saskatchewan who was shamed for wearing a handmade ribbon skirt to a formal day at her elementary school. Isabella's story – and the stories of so many others – reminds us of the ongoing challenges Indigenous Peoples face, including racism and inequity, and of the work we need to continue doing, together, on the shared path of reconciliation.”
In Lac La Biche, the January 4 ceremony began with a traditional smudging ceremony and prayers, followed by speeches and a reception. Many in attendance wore the colourful Indigenous ribbon skirts, while others wore ribbon shirts.
Nicholas Bartlett, the chairperson of the Focus Indigenous group, said the story of Isabella Kulak is just one example of how resilience and pride can be used to overcome ignorance. Having a specially dedicated awareness day supported by the federal government is another step in the right direction, he said.
“The importance of it is that it represents resilience, strength, survival and identity of Indigenous people,” Bartlett told Lakeland This Week.