Issue/Question
Can I burn sacred plants or smudge myself or my residence hall room?
Environment
- Residence Halls
- Residence Life
- Ceremonial Burning
Resolution
The Use of Sacred Plants
Black Hills State University is committed to the recognition of time-honored tribal traditions and ceremonies that complement the holistic well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native students. In support of the ceremonial use of smoke produced in the burning
of cedar, sage, sweet grass, and tobacco, American Indian and Alaska Native students may submit a Ceremonial Use Exemption Form for use of a Canupa (sacred pipe) and smudging within respective residence hall rooms. A digital copy of this pamphlet and from are linked in the article.
You will fill out the form and take it to the Center for American Indian Studies for approval. Once complete, please submit it to Residence Life (SU 105B or SU 210). Residence Life will work with you to schedule a date and time to have the fire suppression system turned off.