What is a Ribbon Skirt?
Nearly all First Nations and Indigenous groups across Turtle Island (earth) have a strong tradition in this iconic piece of clothing, and all tribes have their own stories and protocol surrounding them.
The modern ribbon skirt is an evolution of First Nations and Indigenous people's artistic skills. Adapted from both the Buckskin dresses and ceremonial skirts of the Woodlands and Plains Native Americans, our ancestors modified that design when European materials became available in the early 1800's.
The modern ribbon skirt has changed over centuries, having a diverse ancestry in its materials and traditions. It is our way of expressing our creativity. Indigenous People have always expressed their art in decorating every day utilitarian items. A ribbon skirt often represents our connection to the earth.
It is difficult to follow the historical record of ribbon skirts accurately, due to rampant racism, stigma and persecution of Indigenous people over the centuries. When persecuted by the government and facing discrimination, American Indians and Alaskan Natives burned their sashes, capotes, and cultural artifacts, including their ribbon skirts, fearing for the safety and livelihoods of their families.
Today, Anishinaabe women proudly wear the ribbon skirts in everyday life and at ceremonies and at Powwows. It can be an expression of womanhood and strength, a symbol of defiance and a symbol of resilience, survival and identity. For Indigenous peoples, the ribbon skirt reminds us of our sacredness as women and the power in that.