Traditional Practice of Smudge

Dear Evergreen Families,

As part of our ongoing learning and Commitment to Truth and ReconciliACTION, students will have an opportunity to participate in a unique learning opportunity about the traditional practice of smudge throughout the week of September 30-October 4, 2024.

Smudge is a practice shared by Indigenous cultures across Turtle Island (North America) and beyond. Every nation has their own protocols regarding the practice of smudge. Smudge is a land-based ceremony rooted in the practice of acknowledging our relatives and humbling ourselves as fully animate human beings—spirit, heart, body and mind—with the responsibility to walk in harmony with all our relations. Smudge typically involves burning a small piece of dried medicine such as sage, sweetgrass or cedar inside a fire-proof container, such as a cast-iron dish or abalone shell. Smudge can be done individually or in a group. The practice of smudge is an opportunity for students and staff to learn about Indigenous worldviews and perspectives, whether participating or simply observing.

During the smudge, participants will listen to the Elder Shirley offer teachings about this practice and its role in historical and contemporary Indigenous communities. In keeping with traditional practices, it is common for the Elder or Knowledge Keeper to close the smudge by engaging in Aatsimoyihkaan—the “sacred way of speaking”. They may speak their message in their traditional language or in English. These words reinforce the spirit of collective unity and harmony and set the intention for holding a sacred space for engaging with one another in a good way.  

When smudging in a group, participants sit or stand in a circle and listen to the Elder offer teachings about the practice and its role in historical and contemporary Indigenous communities. In some cases, the smudge bowl is passed around the circle with the invitation for each person in circle to smudge themselves if they wish to. Please note that participation in smudge is informed, voluntary, and always connected to learning.

In every setting, the “right to pass” is upheld. Those who choose not to participate but wish to remain in the circle teachings are welcome to signal their choice to abstain by placing their hand over their heart and passing the smudge bowl on to the next person. If, for any reason, a student chooses not to participate in the experiential learning, the teacher will ensure that an appropriate opportunity to explore associated learning outcomes is available.

The inclusion of Indigenous perspectives and experiences in classrooms is supported and encouraged by:

▪The Education Act, Section 16: Provincial regulations for schools. This learning experience connects directly to Section 16: Diversity & Respect.

▪Teaching Quality Standard: Professional standard which all Alberta teachers are expected to meet. This learning experience connects directly to: Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Métis & Inuit.

▪Alberta’s Education for Reconciliation: This experience connects to various outcomes in the Alberta Programs of Study which demonstrates Alberta’s commitment to First Nations, Métis  and Inuit perspectives and experiences in curriculum.

We are honoured to offer this learning opportunity to our students. If you wish to opt out of this learning activity for your child, or for additional information and questions, please contact Angela McPhee, Principal, acmcphee@cbe.ab.ca.

Respectfully,

Angela McPhee

Principal

Evergreen School