National Ribbon Skirt Day

January 4 is National Ribbon Skirt Day. Indigenous Ribbon Skirts are vibrant symbols of identity, resilience, and tradition among Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island.

Primarily linked to the Plains Indigenous communities, these skirts have evolved and are now embraced across various territories on the continent. Traditionally crafted from materials like cotton and leather, these skirts are adorned with colourful ribbons. These ribbons symbolize beauty, femininity, pride, and storytelling, conveying cultural significance through patterns and colours, often reflecting family lineage and communal values.

Indigenous Ribbon Skirts are more than garments; they embody a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and artistic expression. Worn and created with care, they serve as living symbols of identity and resilience, bridging the past with the present and representing the beauty and strength of Indigenous cultures.

For many people, wearing a Ribbon Skirt is a spiritual practice, especially during cultural ceremonies, powwows, and gatherings. It fosters a deep connection to ancestors and the spirit world while serving as an expression of resistance against colonial narratives, reclaiming Indigenous identity and challenging stereotypes.

The craftsmanship of Ribbon Skirts is an esteemed art form that requires skill and creativity. The process involves selecting fabrics and intricately sewing colourful ribbons into unique designs that vary among communities. Traditional techniques are often passed down through generations, fostering community bonds and preserving cultural practices.

The priority of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion as identified in Strategic Plan 2026 ensures that Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre embeds equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of its operations, providing a culturally safe experience for all patients, families and staff.