On Feb. 21, seven women gathered at Immanuel Anglican Church to make ribbon skirts. We began with a smudge, a sacred act of cleansing and prayer using the smoke of traditional medicines, which helped quiet our minds and prepare our hearts. It created a peaceful and respectful beginning to our time together.
Bonny Graham then shared the background and meaning of the ribbon skirt — a symbol of identity, dignity, resilience, and womanhood. She also spoke about Indigenous missing and murdered women, reminding us that the red ribbon in particular has become a powerful symbol of remembrance, grief, and the call for justice. She explained how the colours and ribbons often carry personal and spiritual stories. Our very talented and creative instructor Diana Ritchie @Kamamak Creations by Diana, sang meaningful words she had written herself, which deepened the experience and brought a sense of reverence and unity to the room. As we began sewing, the work felt more than creative; it felt intentional and honouring, shaped by story, culture, and shared reflection. Contributed by Muna Khoury.
