SMUDGING/PIPE CEREMONIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA

PREAMBLE

Smudging is an Indigenous tradition which involves the burning of sweetgrass, sage and/or cedar. Sage and cedar smudges produce a very strong and distinct aroma but the smoke associated with them is minimal and lasts a very short time. Sweetgrass has a very mild aroma and produces less smoke. A smudge is burned primarily for purification and to help to create a positive mind set.

Tobacco is used in pipe ceremonies by a pipe carrier.

Under the Province of Manitoba’s “The Non-Smokers Health Protection Act” smudging and the use of tobacco in pipe ceremonies are permitted. The University of Manitoba has recognized that smudging and pipe ceremonies are a part of the Indigenous traditional way of life and are therefore permitted on campus.

Migizii Agamik is a smudge-friendly building. Smudges may take place at any time in this building.

Occasional Smudging, Pipe Ceremony Location Procedures

In order to reduce the number of inquiries regarding the smell of smoke in buildings and in order to inform the appropriate departments (Physical Plant, Engineering Services, etc) that a smudge will be taking place, a process has been designed to ensure that the integrity of the ceremony is maintained. Whenever a smudge is going to happen on campus, please use these protocols:

1. The Indigenous Student Centre must be notified at least 48 hours in advance of the ceremony so that the appropriate arrangements can be made. Please email:
   Christine Cyr, Director or Carl Stone, Student Advisor
2. A notification sign (download DOC) must be posted on the door of the room where the smudge/pipe ceremony will take place.
3. Depending on room ventilation, there may be other requirements such as opening a window, closing a door, etc.