RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme says that the gesture ‘demonstrates the RCMP’s values of reconciliation’
A skirt that symbolizes reclaiming identity for Indigenous people is now part of the RCMP's official uniform. An example of a ribbon skirt is shown in an undated handout image published to RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme's account on social media site X.has altered its dress code to include Indigenous ribbon skirts, making the garment available as part of official ceremonial uniforms for female First Nations officers who choose to wear it.
Ribbon skirts were among the Indigenous cultural practices banned by the government under the Indian Act in the 1800s. According to the Canadian Centre of Diversity and Inclusion, ribbon skirts were made by First Nations and Métis women who used brightly coloured ribbons and embroidery patterns to embellish and express their cultural identities on the broad-cloth skirts brought by European settlers.
She said it was “ugly and disappointing” to see the backlash to the ribbon skirt. “This project was 100 per cent led by Indigenous women within the RCMP, and it’s something that we’ve been rallying for, fighting for, for a couple of years now.” National Ribbon Skirt Day was first celebrated in 2023, because of a law passed by Parliament the previous year. It was inspired by 11-year-old Isabella Kulak, a Saskatchewan girl who was shamed at her school when she was told her handmade ribbon skirt didn’t count as formal wear.
It said the ribbon skirt was approved at headquarters earlier this year and that it is to be worn mostly for ceremonial occasions, to replace the long blue skirts that female Mounties traditionally wear. Earlier this year, Auditor-General Karen Hogan released a report finding that the Mounties are not making inroads into many Indigenous communities that still depend on the RCMP for public safety and security.
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
RCMP adds ribbon skirt to uniform in effort to build bridges with Indigenous peopleThe RCMP has added a traditional Indigenous ribbon skirt to its uniform.
Read more »
India's high commissioner to Canada scheduled to speak on bilateral relations after RCMP arrestsHigh Commissioner of India to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma speaks to reporters during an interview in Ottawa on Thursday, August 31, 2023.
Read more »
Liberal foreign interference bill includes some 'good tools' for RCMP: commissionerOTTAWA — The head of the RCMP says proposed federal legislation would equip the national police force with some 'good tools' to address foreign interference.
Read more »
Liberal foreign interference bill includes some 'good tools' for RCMP: commissionerOTTAWA — The head of the RCMP says proposed federal legislation would equip the national police force with some 'good tools' to address foreign interference.
Read more »
Liberal foreign interference bill includes some 'good tools' for RCMP: commissionerOTTAWA — The head of the RCMP says proposed federal legislation would equip the national police force with some 'good tools' to address foreign interference.
Read more »
Liberal foreign interference bill includes some 'good tools' for RCMP: commissionerOTTAWA — The head of the RCMP says proposed federal legislation would equip the national police force with some 'good tools' to address foreign interference.
Read more »