Wednesday, September 18, 2024
There are several new pre-approved smudging locations in our main campus library locations, expanding the smudge-friendly spaces available at the Library. These spaces have been selected to cover a range of locations, circumstances and library users.
At Dana Porter Library, the third floor Reading Room (338) provides a larger space for groups and events; and the Reflection space on the seventh floor (702) is available for individuals. These spaces are in addition to the bookable study rooms on the third floor (3 a,b,c,d,e,f) that were previously approved.
At Davis Centre Library, room 1568 is available for larger gatherings and events, and study room F is a bookable space for smaller groups or individuals.
All approved rooms have met the standards for safe use of smudging medicines. The Office of Indigenous Relations has more details on fire safety and responsibilities. Smudging materials, including traditional medicines and supplies (shell/pan, feather, ash receptacle), are available in the Dana Porter Library Reflection space (room 702) and DC rooms 1568 and study room F.
Why have smudge-friendly spaces
A cultural practice common to many (not all) First Nations, smudging involves the burning of one or more traditional medicines to purify, increase wellness, and decrease burden physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. As a community hub for all students, staff, faculty and visitors, it’s important for the Library to provide smudge-friendly spaces where Indigenous peoples can reclaim their traditional practices and support their holistic wellness in an uplifting environment.
Learn more
The Library’s Associate Director, Indigenous Initiatives, Kevin George, is available for support and to share more about the traditional practice of smudging and why it’s important to have smudge-friendly spaces on campus. For more information about smudging, the Office of Indigenous Relations has more comprehensive information.
