| Topic: | Faculty, Staff, Students: Conduct and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Approval Authority: | Board of Governors |
| Approval Date: | November 26, 2024 |
| Last Revised: | December 1, 2024 |
1. Preamble
Smudging and Pipe Ceremonies are welcome on all York University campuses. Smudging is a traditional ceremony common to many First Nations and involves the burning of traditional medicines. Historically, Métis and Inuit did not Smudge; however, today many Métis have incorporated Smudging into their lives. Common medicines used in the territory where York University campuses are located include sage, tobacco, cedar and sweetgrass. A Smudging Ceremony is held when an individual or group believes it is appropriate. Pipe Ceremonies led by Pipe Carriers are sacred events held for various reasons including asking for blessings, marking and elevating intentions, starting an important journey, or seeking guidance.
Under Section 13 of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, Smudging, the use of tobacco, the smoking of tobacco or holding lighted tobacco by First Nations and Métis persons for traditional First Nations and Métis cultural or spiritual purposes are permitted. Sage and cedar Smudges produce a strong and distinct aroma, however the smoke associated with it is minimal and lasts a short time. Sweetgrass has a very mild aroma and produces less smoke. Tobacco is used in both Smudging and for Pipe Ceremonies.
From 1885 and lasting until 1951 Indigenous people in Canada were banned from participating in ceremonies. The effects of this prohibition are still felt today. This policy will ensure that Indigenous people can once again engage in the cultural practice of Smudging and Pipe Ceremonies without fear of reprisal. It is a critical acknowledgement of Indigenous people’s rights.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure Indigenous people’s right to ceremony is recognized and respected.
3. Scope and Application
This policy applies to all members of the University community on all University campuses, locations, and leased spaces, as well as temporary field operations, University-organized or sanctioned off-site activities under the control of University staff.
This policy will be read in conjunction with other applicable University policies. The requirements identified in the Smoking Policy shall not apply to the performing of Pipe Ceremonies. The requirements identified in the Policy on Posters shall not apply to posting ceremony notices.
4. Definitions
Ceremony: Connecting to the physical and spiritual world, provide healing, clarity, and to provide gratitude and recognition.
Pipe Ceremony: a sacred ceremony led by a Pipe Carrier that often involves the offering of a Pipe to the seven cardinal points: the Four Directions; the Above or Spirit World; the Below or Mother Earth; and the Centre of all living things.
Smudging: is the practice of burning medicines to prepare oneself/an area to begin something new with a good heart and a good and open way.
Spaces: public spaces (e.g. classrooms), events and gatherings (not taking place in personal or dedicated spaces), personal spaces (residence rooms, offices), and dedicated spaces.
Traditional Medicine: The World Health Organization identifies “traditional medicine” as “the sum total of knowledge, skills and practices based on the theories, beliefs and experiences indigenous to different cultures, whether explicable or not, used in the maintenance of health as well as in the prevention, diagnosis, improvement of treatment of physical and mental illness.”
5. Policy
5.1 Smudging and Pipe Ceremonies are both welcome and celebrated on York University campuses. All should feel welcome to participate, or not, at their discretion. Smudging and Pipe Ceremonies may be part of an event, personal practice, or a university function.
5.2 It is important that a Smudge or Pipe Ceremony as part of a group activity is conducted with respect to both those who choose to be involved and those who choose not to participate.
5.3 Cultural practices including Smudging and Pipe Ceremonies are voluntary; no individual will be forced or pressured to participate.
a. University community members have a responsibility to exercise respect and consideration to one another. Some people may have sensitivity or allergies to the smoke created during the ceremony, and ceremony organizers should endeavour to ensure they are given the opportunity to leave the area prior to the event.
b. Individuals who choose to refrain from participating can either stay in the room or leave. Individuals who wish to exit an area where smudging is taking place shall do so in a quiet manner that is respectful of ceremony participants.
5.4 In the event of large, pre-planned gatherings where a Smudge or Pipe will be lit on a particular day; it is recommended that:
a. advance notice (24-48 hours’ notice) be given to the AVP Indigenous Initiatives at avpii@yorku.ca;
b. signs are posted at entry-points to let community members know that Smudging or Pipe Ceremonies are occurring.
5.5 In personal spaces and dedicated spaces there is no need for advanced notice where there is no smoke detector.
5.6 Smudging and Pipe Ceremonies are allowed on York University campuses and in York University facilities. Please refer to Procedures for a list of exceptions.
5.7 Spontaneous Smudging or Pipe Ceremonies may occur and take place in any space not on the restricted spaces list.
6. Roles & Responsibilities
6.1 The Vice-President, Equity, People and Culture is responsible for establishing procedures pursuant hereto from time-to-time regarding any matter set out in this Policy.
6.2 The AVP Indigenous Initiatives is responsible for:
a. the implementation of this Policy; and
b. providing assistance and advice to community members seeking to organize a Smudging or Pipe ceremony.
6.3 Ceremony organizers are responsible for:
a. ensuring Smudging or Pipe ceremonies are not conducted in exempted spaces;
b. providing advance notice, where possible, to the AVP Indigenous Initiatives when organizing large or preplanned gatherings involving Smudging or Pipe ceremonies; and
c. posting signs, where possible, at large indoor gatherings at entry-points to indicate that Smudging or Pipe ceremonies are occurring in an area.
7. Review
The Vice-President, Equity, People and Culture is responsible for the review of this policy every 5 years at a minimum.
| Legislative History: | Approved by the Board of Governors 26 November 2024 |
|---|---|
| Date of Next Review: | November 2029 |
| Related Policies, Procedures and Guidelines: |