Smudging on Campus
Ever come to Merrill Hall or to one of our events and smell or notice smoke? Not sure why?
The smoke you are smelling or noticing is from the Indigenous practice of purifying and cleansing called ‘smudging’.
During a smudge, plant leaves or stems – typically tobacco, sage, or sweetgrass – are placed in an abalone shell and ignited. The flames are then quickly blown out and the smoke, is wafted over the person, either by hand or with an eagle feather.
The person being smudged pulls the smoke to them and gently inhales the smoke. It is believed that the negative thoughts and feelings have been absorbed by the ashes. The smoke keeps bad out and good in while carrying your prayers to the spirits. A person can smudge themselves or someone can lead a smudge by holding the abalone shell and directing the smoke over others.
This practice is protected through American Indian Freedom of Religion Act (1978) & UWM Policy.