Smudging Ceremonies

The University of Toronto welcomes smudging by Indigenous community members across its campuses. 

Learn more about the University’s commitment to supporting smudging and other Indigenous ceremonies.

Smudging is an Indigenous tradition which involves the burning of sweetgrass, sage, and/or cedar. Sage and cedar smudges produce a very strong and distinct aroma but the smoke associated with it is minimal and lasts a very short time. Sweetgrass has a very mild aroma and produces less smoke. A smudge is burned primarily for purification and to help create a positive mind set.

Tobacco is used in pipe ceremonies by pipe carriers.

Under Section 13 of Ontario Smoke Free Act smudging, the use of tobacco, the smoking of tobacco or holding lighted tobacco by First Nations and Metis persons for traditional First Nations and Metis cultural or spiritual purposes are permitted. The University of Toronto Scarborough has recognized that smudging and pipe ceremonies are a part of the Indigenous traditional way of life and are therefore permitted on campus.

Prior to the event, notification must be sent to the building occupants in the surrounding area (48-hour notice). Some people may have sensitivity or allergies to the smoke created during the ceremony, and they must be given the opportunity to leave the area prior to the event. Advance Notice Signage can be posted out the location.

Prior to the ceremony, please make note of the nearest fire extinguisher.

During the ceremony, please ensure the notice remains posted outside of the location.

After the ceremony, never leave any burning material unattended and please ensure the burning material has been completely extinguished at the conclusion of the ceremony.  Please ensure to remove the notice signage.

Campus Safety Operations and Facilities Management (FMD) have identified a list of common spaces, meeting rooms and classrooms in which the aroma/smoke will have minimal impact on the surrounding areas.  If you wish to conduct a Smudging Ceremony in a location not listed below, please contact the Manager of Fire Systems, and we will work with FMD to accommodate your request.