(January 4, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak issued the following statement to commemorate the third anniversary of Ribbon Skirt Day:
“Today, we honour the courage of Isabel Kulak, a member of the Cote First Nation in Saskatchewan, who was a Grade 5 student in 2022 when she wore a handmade ribbon skirt to school and was told it did not meet the dress code for formal attire,” said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “Isabel’s resilience in the face of prejudice sparked a global movement of solidarity and inspired the enactment of the National Ribbon Skirt Day Act by the Government of Canada.”
“The ribbon skirt represents the identity, traditions, and strength of First Nations women. It is a reminder of the importance of protecting cultural expression and ensuring that First Nations teachings and values are celebrated and understood across generations. Today, I encourage First Nations people to wear their cultural attire with pride and invite all Canadians to deepen their understanding of First Nations heritage and contributions.”
―30―
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Jon Adam Chen
Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
[email protected]
(343)-573-2229 (mobile)
Cherish Francis
Deputy Chief of Staff
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]