Smudging Request
Smudging involves the burning of substances such as sweet grass, cedar and sage during Indigenous events.
This practice is based on traditional beliefs that the smoke produced is a means of purification and to create a positive mindset for those involved in the activities. The smoke and scent produced during a smudge is minimal and often dissipates quickly.
Types of events in which smudging may occur:
- Indigenous student club events
- Teaching or services for Indigenous students events
- University sponsored Indigenous talks, gatherings or theatrical productions
Approval for the use of smudging during an event or ceremony must be received through the Office of Indigenous Education and Facilities.
Lead time for making a request
Non-designated smudging room: If your request is in a non-designated smudging room, this request must be completed one week prior to your event.
Designated smudging room: If your event is in a designated smudging room, 48 hours' notice and approval is required.
Smudging outside: If you are smudging outside, please stay at least 15 meters away for the buildings’ intake vents.
Avoid false alarms — notify Facilities
Please ensure that Facilities knows about the event so that TRU can avoid false fire alarms. Fill in one of these forms, depending on whether you are an employee or a student.
TRU is charged $500 for each instance that Kamloops Fire Rescue is called out for a false alarm. In situations where a group or individual has not received appropriate permission to hold a smudge, or exceeds the recommended guidelines for a smudge on campus, the fine shall be levied on the group or individual responsible for triggering the false alarm.
All costs relating to the temporary impairment and subsequent restoration of fire detection services shall be borne by the applicant, including additional labour (i.e. Fire Watch) that may be necessary during the fire detection system impairment.
