Ribbon Skirt Class: Preserving Tradition, Teaching the Next Generation

O-Gah-Pah (Quapaw) Nation Ribbon Skirt Class — Sept. 14, 12–4 PM, ages 5–24, supplies provided. Call (918) 325-2886.

The O-Gah-Pah (Quapaw) Nation is excited to invite youth and families to our upcoming Ribbon Skirt Class on Saturday, September 14, from 12 PM to 4 PM at the Ki-Ho-Ta Family Service Craft Room (58150 E 66 Rd., Miami, OK 74354).

A Tradition That Carries Us

Ribbon skirts are more than fabric and ribbon. They hold our stories, honor our ancestors, and remind us of the strength carried by Indigenous women through generations. For the O-Gah-Pah (Quapaw) people, ribbon skirts represent pride, identity, and resilience. Every color, every stitch, and every ribbon has meaning.

Why It Matters

When we teach our children to make ribbon skirts, we give them more than a skill. We give them a way to carry our history forward. As Lana Kulak, whose daughter inspired National Ribbon Skirt Day, said: “The ribbon skirt represents strength, resilience, and womanhood.” That is what we hope to share — the knowledge that making and wearing these skirts is an act of strength and belonging.

Come Learn With Us

This class is open to ages 5 through 24, and all supplies will be provided. No experience is needed, and parents are welcome to come and help. Together, we’ll learn, create, and celebrate what ribbon skirts mean to our people.

Too often, young people have been shamed or even bullied for wearing ribbon skirts in schools and public spaces. By teaching our youth the meaning behind each ribbon and the pride stitched into every skirt, we empower them to stand strong in who they are.

To sign up, please contact Kristen Keys at (918) 325-2886.

This class is sponsored through a federal grant from SAMHSA.