In a significant move to demonstrate inclusivity and reconciliation, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) recently announced that officers could incorporate ribbon skirts, eagle feathers, and Métis sashes into their uniforms. While the decision has been celebrated by some Indigenous women within the force, the broader Indigenous community has voiced concerns, arguing that this symbolic gesture overlooks deeper systemic issues. This article delves into the significance of ribbon skirts, the historical context of the RCMP, and the broader debate surrounding this initiative.
The Symbolism of the Ribbon Skirt
Ribbon skirts hold deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous communities, especially among First Nations women. Traditionally worn during ceremonies, the skirts are not just garments but powerful symbols of identity, heritage, and resistance. For Indigenous women, the ribbon skirt is a sacred garment that embodies resilience and cultural pride.
These skirts, often handcrafted with intricate designs, are passed down through generations and serve as a connection to the past, present, and future of Indigenous peoples. The act of wearing a ribbon skirt is seen as a celebration of culture and a form of spiritual expression. To many Indigenous people, the skirt is a direct representation of their community’s survival despite centuries of colonial oppression.
The RCMP’s Role in Canadian Colonial History
The RCMP, formed in 1873, has a long and controversial history with Indigenous peoples. Initially created to assert colonial control over Western Canada, the force played a significant role in enforcing policies that led to the displacement of Indigenous communities, the enforcement of residential schools, and the suppression of Indigenous resistance. Many view the RCMP as a symbol of the colonial system that perpetuated harm against Indigenous peoples, making their association with a sacred symbol like the ribbon skirt deeply problematic for many.
Historically, the RCMP’s actions contributed to the trauma experienced by Indigenous communities, including the forced removal of children from their homes to residential schools, where many faced abuse and neglect. The scars of these actions remain today, influencing the relationship between Indigenous communities and law enforcement.
Reconciliation or Tokenism? The RCMP’s Ribbon Skirt Initiative
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme announced the ribbon skirt initiative as a step toward demonstrating the force’s commitment to reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion. He stated that officers could now wear ribbon skirts, along with eagle feathers and Métis sashes, to signify the RCMP’s recognition of Indigenous cultures within their ranks. The skirts were presented as a way to honor Indigenous employees and support recruitment efforts within the Indigenous community.
However, many Indigenous activists argue that this symbolic gesture does not address the root causes of systemic racism and historical injustices perpetuated by the RCMP. Kairyn Potts, an activist and TikTok influencer, expressed disappointment with the initiative, stating that the RCMP should focus on actionable changes, such as improving relationships with Indigenous communities, reducing over-incarceration of Indigenous people, and addressing the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).
Potts emphasized that wearing a ribbon skirt does not erase the RCMP’s long history of oppressive actions. He pointed out that more meaningful steps are needed, such as addressing the ongoing trauma Indigenous communities face and confronting the harmful practices that continue within the Canadian justice system.
Indigenous Voices and Concerns
Sixties Scoop activist Katherine Strongwind also criticized the RCMP’s decision, labeling the initiative an “insult.” She argued that there is “nothing Indigenous about the RCMP” and that their role in colonialism and the abuse of Indigenous peoples disqualifies them from using sacred symbols like the ribbon skirt. Strongwind’s concerns were echoed by many in the community who feel that the RCMP’s decision to adopt these symbols is an attempt at cultural appropriation rather than a genuine effort to heal past wounds.
The idea of non-Indigenous people, especially law enforcement officers, wearing sacred Indigenous symbols raises questions about cultural sensitivity and respect. Ribbon skirts, eagle feathers, and Métis sashes are not mere fashion statements—they are deeply spiritual and tied to the identity of Indigenous peoples. For many, the decision to allow RCMP officers to wear these symbols without fully addressing the historical context of the force’s relationship with Indigenous communities is seen as a token gesture that fails to bring about real change.
Diverse Perspectives Within Indigenous Communities
It is important to note that not all Indigenous people share the same perspective on the RCMP’s ribbon skirt initiative. Some Indigenous women within the RCMP, such as Cree RCMP Alberta Inspector Kim Mueller, have expressed pride in the decision, seeing it as a way to honor their heritage and celebrate Indigenous women in policing. Mueller emphasized that the skirts are not meant to overshadow or ignore the injustices faced by Indigenous communities but are instead a way to show inclusivity and respect.
For Mueller and others who support the initiative, the ribbon skirt represents a long-awaited acknowledgment of Indigenous culture within the RCMP. However, they also recognize that this gesture alone does not heal the wounds caused by the RCMP’s past actions. Mueller stressed that moving forward, the focus should be on reconciliation and building stronger relationships between the RCMP and Indigenous communities.
Addressing the Real Issues: A Call for Actionable Change
While the ribbon skirt initiative may be a step toward recognition, many argue that true reconciliation requires much more. Indigenous activists call for meaningful action that goes beyond symbolic gestures. Addressing the over-incarceration of Indigenous peoples, improving policing practices, and tackling the systemic issues that contribute to the marginalization of Indigenous communities are just a few of the urgent concerns that need attention.
Reconciliation is not a process that can be achieved through symbolic gestures alone. It requires a commitment to addressing the root causes of injustice and working collaboratively with Indigenous communities to find solutions that promote healing, justice, and equity. Until these deeper issues are addressed, many will continue to view the RCMP’s ribbon skirt initiative with skepticism, seeing it as an attempt to placate Indigenous communities rather than confront the systemic problems that persist.
Moving Forward: Building Trust and Fostering Real Change
For reconciliation to be meaningful, it must be built on trust and mutual respect. This requires not only symbolic gestures but also real, sustained efforts to address the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. The RCMP, as an institution, must take responsibility for its role in colonialism and work toward genuine healing by engaging with Indigenous communities, acknowledging the harm caused, and actively working to dismantle the systems that perpetuate inequality.
The RCMP’s decision to incorporate ribbon skirts into their uniforms, while significant, is only one small step in the journey toward true reconciliation. The focus must shift from symbolic acts to tangible, impactful changes that will create a safer, more equitable future for Indigenous communities across Canada.
Conclusion
The RCMP’s ribbon skirt initiative has sparked a heated debate within Indigenous communities, with varying opinions on the significance of the gesture. While some Indigenous members of the force view it as a step toward recognition, many activists argue that it fails to address the underlying issues of systemic racism and historical trauma. As Canada moves forward in its pursuit of reconciliation, it is clear that meaningful change requires more than symbolic acts—it requires a commitment to justice, healing, and the dismantling of the structures that have perpetuated harm for generations.