Miss Indian World

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Emery-Rose Assiniboine with Django. Photo by Dale Mosquito.

Emery-Rose Assiniboine, a member of the Dakota Sioux and Plains Cree nations, is competing in the Miss Indian World Pageant. Assiniboine is one of seven Canadian women vying for the prestigious title.

The pageant is part of the 33rd Annual Gathering of Nations, which took place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in April. It’s considered one of the most prominent powwows in the world.

A certified life skills coach, Assiniboine said she’s constantly working to inspire indigenous youth. In the pageant she will be speaking on the roles and responsibilities and the impact that the horse has on the Nekaneet people.

Assiniboine and 23 other indigenous women will be judged on cultural tribal knowledge, dancing ability, public speaking and personality. The other Canadian women competing include Akeisha Trudeau from White River Frist Nations, Ont., Annalissa Dequaine-Pasapa from White Bear First Nations, Sask., Ariane Xay Kuyass from Old Massett, Haida Gwaii, B.C., Caitlin Tolley from Kitigan-Zibi, Que., and Chezney Martin from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, Ont.

Assiniboine also hopes to call international attention to Canada’s missing and murdered indigenous women and the call to action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.