Smudging Ceremonies

Introduction:

The Chilliwack School District’s (“District’s”) Smudging Ceremony Guidelines align with its commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and the District’s Indigenous Cultural Safety, Humility, and Competency Guide.
These guidelines were created collaboratively by members of the Indigenous Education Council, Indigenous Educators, and the Assistant Superintendent. These guidelines serve to advance the District’s ongoing equity and inclusion work while reinforcing teachings rooted in decolonization and anti-racism. Central to this effort is the shared goal of fostering respect, understanding, inclusivity, and belonging among staff, students, and the broader community.

Teachings

A core teaching within (Respect for all things) is the recognition and honoring of the inherent right of all beings to exist, function, and thrive within the interconnected web of life. Human health and well-being are inseparable from the health of all living and non-living beings around us. Smudging is for wellness, well-being, and mental health.

What is Smudging?

Smudging is a sacred practice and ceremony carried out by some Indigenous communities. It involves the burning of one or more sacred medicines gathered from the earth. While each Nation and family has its own teachings and protocols, four plant medicines are commonly used: x̲pá:y (cedar), sage, sweetgrass, and tobacco. Within Coast Salish territory, x̲pá:y is most commonly used.
This practice has been passed down through generations, with variations reflecting the diversity of Indigenous Nations and families. Generally, smudging offers a moment to pause, reflect, and recenter oneself. It is a spiritual act of cleansing, purification, and renewal, allowing participants to release negative thoughts and energy.
Smudging is a respectful, inclusive practice open to all people. Non-Indigenous individuals are welcome to participate when invited, provided they do so with understanding and respect for its cultural and spiritual significance. Participation in a smudging ceremony is always voluntary, and individuals have the option to respectfully observe or opt out of the activity at any time.

Who can lead a smudging ceremony?

A smudging ceremony is led by an individual with a deep understanding of its purpose, significance, and protocols. This may be an Elder or a Knowledge Keeper, a staff member or student within the school, or a member of the wider community.

How do we smudge?

While the specific protocols may differ between Nations and families, the general practice involves placing the plant medicine in a container such as a shell, bowl, or copper or cast-iron vessel. The medicines are then lit with a match, and a feather or fan is used to gently move the smoke. The individual leading the smudge begins first, followed by others who wish to participate.
The person leading a smudge ceremony may share the teachings and reasons behind the practice, including the use of a specific plant medicine. Smudging ceremonies often begin by cleansing the hands, followed by guiding the smoke over the head, eyes, ears, mouth, heart, and body. Each movement serves as a gentle reminder: to think good thoughts, see good actions, hear good sounds, speak kind words, and reflect the goodness within ourselves. The person leading a smudging ceremony will also know how to respectfully care for the remnants of the plant materials used.

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