Purpose

To provide for the Indigenous practices of Kullik-lighting and smudging and facilitate these practices at University campuses as desired by University students, faculty and staff and external partners.

Scope

All students, faculty and staff, and external partners using Memorial University facilities on the St. John’s Campus and the Grenfell Campus, excluding the Health Sciences Centre, the Marine Institute, the Labrador Institute, Western Regional School of Nursing, and all University residences.  The Labrador Institute, which is co-located within the College of the North Atlantic in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and in Northwest River, Labrador, will subscribe to any relevant policy and procedures the College may have.

Definitions

Kullik-lighting — An Inuit tradition which involves the lighting of oil in a soapstone lamp; once practical, this practice is now ceremonial.

Smudging — A First Nations purification ceremony involving the lighting of sacred plants such as juniper, sage or sweet grass. Some Metis, particularly in Western Canada, also smudge.

Policy

Kullik-lighting and smudging are practiced at Memorial University in accordance with the Procedure for Kullik-Lighting and Smudging.

Certain sites are designated as permanent Kullik-lighting and smudging sites after they have been examined for ventilation, smoke alarms and related.  The President has the authority to designate kullik-lighting and smudging sites and to periodically review the list of sites, for appropriateness and to add to the list any renovated or constructed spaces assigned as Aboriginal space.

Related Documents

Kullik-lighting and smudging sites

Template for kullik-lighting and/or smudging sign

Procedures: