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written by Parmjot Kaur Chahal

The Office of Indigenous Relations is thrilled to share that new smudging room signage has been put in place across the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ’s main campus. These signs identify spaces that are pre-approved for smudging by Plant Operations, making it easier for campus members to identify where indoor smudging ceremonies can take place safely and without the risk of setting off smoke detectors.��

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to honor and uphold smudging as a protected cultural and spiritual practice. Under the Ontario Human Rights Code and Ontario Smoke-Free Act, Indigenous Peoples have the right to use traditional medicines—such as sage, cedar, sweetgrass, and tobacco—for smudging ceremonies. These rights are protected, even as the University transitioned to a smoke-free environment under the revised Policy 29 (effective July 1, 2024).��

Thanks to the new signage on over 70 rooms across campus, smudging indoors is easier as the signs remove the barrier of having to visit the Office of Indigenous Relations website to check which rooms are pre-approved and deemed safe for smudging. If there is a sign on the room, any person can smudge and does not need to post a notice of smudging poster. If the desired smudge space is not marked as recognized as a smudge identified zone , please complete the Smudge Request Form. Once the requested area has been approved, please post a “Notice of Smudging” sign outside of the space (available on our indoor smudging webpage) continue to follow all regular safety procedures, as well as being mindful of others in the space. For the convenience of all, these printable notices are also available on the Office of Indigenous Relations' smudging website.��

The new signage reflects our shared responsibility to support Indigenous spiritual practices and ensure safe, respectful spaces for all. The signs also serve as a reminder of Indigenous presence on campus. Smudging is not only a cultural tradition, but also a form of healing and community connection that deserves acceptance, support and clear accommodation.��

Outdoor smudging can be practiced anywhere on campus, as long as it takes place 15 meters away from open windows, doors and building air intake units. Smudging outdoors doesn’t require any permit or permission but should be respectfully done, being mindful of other community members.  For more guidance on smudging outdoors, visit our outdoor smudging webpage.��

For more information about smudging as a practice, a video from a campus knowledge keeper and the complete listing of campus resources mentioned in this article, visit our smudging information webpage or direct any questions about smudging to indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca