Ribbon Skirts date back to the 1800's and are worn as a proud expression of Indigenous culture, tradition and ceremony. They also symbolize womanhood, resilience and a connection to Mother Earth and her sacred medicines.
About five years ago, then-10-year-old Isabella, a member of the Cote First Nation in Saskatchewan, wore a ribbon skirt to formal day at her school. It was the last day before Christmas break.
The ribbon skirt, a colourful and handmade cultural garment worn in ceremonies or for special events, was not formal enough, she was told by an educational assistant at the school. She should have worn a store-bought dress, like one of her classmates, she was told.
She returned home and cried, she said.
In December 2022, an act to establish January 4 as National Ribbon Skirt Day received Royal Assent. That was the first day Isabella returned to school after Christmas break, alongside family members who were wearing ribbon skirts. Instead of being silent and letting this colonial discrimination continue, Isabella spoke up and her advocacy led to the apology to her by the school and legislation passed by the Canadian Senate and introduced by Senator Mary Jane Callum proclaiming January 4th as National Ribbon Skirt Day, a day to recognize and celebrate National Ribbon Skirt Day. This day honours Indigenous women and serves as a reminder to continue protecting Indigenous cultures while supporting the resilience and strength of Indigenous people.
Horizon School Division students and staff are warmly invited to wear a ribbon skirt on January 13th 2026, as a visible show of support and respect.