To listen to the full interview, please visit CBC’s Unreserved.

“I thought, why not have one here, but one that celebrates our Indigenous identity?”

That spark has grown into Walking in Two Worlds: A Celebration of Indigenous Identity, a week-long event running November 17–21, 2025. Each day invites Indigenous students, staff and faculty to show up in ways that honour who they are, through clothing, beadwork, hair and stories. And for those who’ve been counting down, Thursday’s theme also lines up with the 4th Annual Indigenous Winter Market, a beloved campus tradition that brings together incredible artisans, food and community.

The week is about more than just dressing up. It’s about visibility, pride and joy.

“Our students are here, navigating this system,” Kookum Karen said. “They’re walking in two worlds. We want to celebrate that and celebrate them.”

Inspired by her years as a school teacher, Kookum Karen envisioned a spirit week tailored to Indigenous students navigating university life. “In schools, we had spirit week,” she recalls. “So, let’s try one here at the University of Manitoba that celebrates our Indigenous identity.” For Kookum Karen, the initiative is about recognizing the unique experience of Indigenous students who are “walking in two worlds” balancing their cultural identity while engaging with academic systems not built with them in mind.

Each day of the celebration carries deep meaning:

• Monday, November 17: Moccasin and Mukluk Monday Inspired by Rock Your Mocs, this day symbolizes the duality of Indigenous students’ journeys. “We walk in yours and ours,” says Kookum Karen, referring to the blend of traditional and contemporary paths.
• Tuesday, November 18: Ribbon Shirts, Skirts and Sashes A tribute to cultural regalia often reserved for special occasions. “I can wear my ribbon skirt when I want to,” says Kookum Karen. The day encourages conversation and connection, “Tell me about your skirt”, and affirms that traditional wear belongs wherever Indigenous people choose to be.
• Wednesday, November 19: Show Your HAIR-itage A celebration of hair and headwear as expressions of identity. Whether it’s braided, a headpiece or Kookum Karen’s own tam (which connects her to her grandmother and the song Raspberry Beret), students are invited to wear their hair with pride.
• Thursday, November 20: Beaded Beauty Bling A showcase of Indigenous artistry. From earrings to necklaces, beadwork is a vibrant expression of culture. Those without beaded items are encouraged to visit the 4th Annual Indigenous Winter Market, also happening that day.
• Friday, November 21: Fancy Friday The week culminates in a celebration of Indigenous fashion. Students are invited to wear their most elegant, traditional or culturally inspired attire.

The goal of Walking in Two Worlds is to foster pride and visibility. “We see people in our UM community wearing their traditional wear,” says Kookum Karen. “We should be proud to wear this in this world.” The initiative is also an act of resilience and proof that Indigenous traditions, art and identity are alive and thriving.

While the primary audience is Indigenous students, staff and faculty, allies are warmly welcomed to participate and learn. As Kookum Karen emphasizes, “This is about celebrating who we are and honouring our cultures. We’re still here. And we belong.”

For more information, visit the Indigenous Student Centre at Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge. The Indigenous Winter Market will also take place in Marshall McLuhan Hall located in UMSU University Centre, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m on November 20, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity!