Smudging is the ceremonial practice of burning sacred herbs; it’s common in Native American traditions and rituals. Similar practices, at least in appearance if not name, take place in Catholic masses, too. And the practice recently made news in North Dakota when a powwow on the campus of the University of Mary welcomed visitors with a ‘No Smudging’ sign.
Concerns over fire alarm sensitivity were the stated reason, but the policy left some attendees feeling chafed. C.S. Hagen writing for Inforum.com has the full story that should be taken as a learning and understanding opportunity for when people of diverse backgrounds share space.
