Advocating For the Cultural Legacy of Sacred Tobacco in Alberta's Indigenous Communities
With strong dedication towards protecting the cultural importance of sacred tobacco, Alberta's Indigenous advocates are striving to keep its rightful place within their communities. The Keep Tobacco Sacred Collaboration (KTSC) represents a passion for preserving culture and promoting community health and wellness.
The recent recognition of their efforts at the legislature is a strong reminder of the importance of their cause. Tears of gratitude flowed freely as Tobacco Warriors from various nations stood united, their spirits ignited by the validation of their mission.
“I've never experienced anything like that before,” says Vanessa Kyme-Gilbert of the Keep Tobacco Sacred Collaboration. “Being there made me realize how important our work is. I really appreciated that, and the opportunity was very humbling.”
The experience deeply touched fellow Tobacco Warrior Dylan Campiou, among others, reaffirming their dedication to the cause and inspiring them to double their efforts.
“Now we feel the need to double down, to know the path we’re on is a good path, and to play full out, not be afraid, not hold back. We know that our work can benefit other people.”
Tobacco Warriors are all about taking a well-rounded approach to uphold cultural traditions and boost overall wellness in Indigenous communities. By growing tobacco, spreading wisdom through different platforms, and building connections between generations, this collaboration aims to strengthen Indigenous identity and promote well-being.
At the heart of their mission is championing traditional tobacco use rather than commercial options — a crucial move in addressing the health gaps prevalent among Indigenous communities. With troubling stats emphasizing the impact of smoking-related diseases, the need for cultural revitalization and holistic healing has never been more urgent.
Approximately 600 ingredients go into the manufacturing of commercial cigarettes, creating over 7,000 chemicals when they burn. “Imagine what that’s doing when you inhale that into your body,” - Community Engagement Specialist Charlene Bruno from Samson Cree Nation.
A shocking statistic from MyHealth Alberta indicates that the frequency of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) diagnosis among Indigenous people is twice as common as in the general public. This trend sadly suggests that more than a quarter of First Nations people could die early from smoking.
Members of the KTSC initiative also want to pass down cultural practices to younger generations. “The translation piece is very important to us. Unfortunately, many of our elders are leaving us, and they’re taking a lot of that knowledge with them. So it’s always been of utmost importance that we have young people to work with,” Bruno continues.
Beyond its health implications, preserving sacred tobacco carries significant spiritual and cultural importance. It is a conduit for prayer, ceremony, and connection with the land and ancestors. It brings tradition and spirituality together and strengthens and supports Indigenous communities during tough times.
For the Tobacco Warriors, this journey hits close to home, blending their urge for self-discovery with a dedication to serving their communities. Through advocacy, they want to honour their heritage, uplift future generations, and protect the cultural legacy of sacred tobacco for years to come.
As the KTSC continues to champion its cause, we invite all who share our vision to join us in preserving the spiritual connection that sacred tobacco embodies.