Within every Native American tribal culture there are ancient and profound traditions concerning the use of plants for medicinal and spiritual purposes. Sage, sweet-grass, and cedar are widely used to aid in purification and prayer. The CSS Tobacco Free Campus policy does not apply to the practice of these cultural activities, including smudging, by Native Americans in accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, 42 USC, Sections 1996 and 1966a., The Act allow the religious use of sage, sweet-grass, and cedar smoke with their well-established use within Native American ceremonial traditions. With prior confirmation, use is granted, subject to college and Residential Life policies concerning safety.
All smudging activities will be coordinated through the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and/or Native Studies Center though submission of the Ceremonial Use Form. The Jiimaan Room, T3115, is a pre-approved location for smudging. Native faculty/staff offices and Native student Residential Life spaces will require annual submission of the Ceremonial Use Form. All smudging activities within Residential Life spaces will be coordinated by the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) and/or Native Studies Center and forwarded to the Director of Residential Life once confirmed.
In order to help facilitate support and understanding of these ceremonies, education in the form of connecting with key stakeholders* will happen annually, prior to the start of the academic year. Periodic email communication will be sent to the campus community regarding the policy and who to contact with questions.
*Key Stakeholders: Human Resources, Native American Center Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; Native Student Recruitment and Success Specialist, Residential Life, Campus Safety and Security, Campus Ministries, Manager of Safety and Security and if a larger one off event Event Management Services (EMS).