Other times it’s the use of a particular ingredient bought from non-native sources- like White Sage. Sage, dream catchers, and Kachina dolls are literally sold in kiosks in our small airport. Like, I’m honestly very ashamed to admit I got this particular pretty sage stick from a vegan restaurant. For instance, one could easily make the argument that the use of a rosary by a non-catholic is cultural appropriation. From the appropriation of … Infinite Embers is a holistic guide to mind/body wellness, delivered with no-bs realness. You're forgetting the fact that ACTUAL natives who are actually from the culture where smudging originates are the ones who believe it is appropriative for others to use this, and you have no authority to speak over them. Since my family didn’t travel much, it wasn’t until I was older and moved to CA that I really realized how rare it is for a region’s Native American culture to be celebrated, especially to the degree it is in NM. A Community created for all the Pagans and Witches out there! Cultural appropriation is "taking or using from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing you understand or respect this culture." They’re still currently battling to be allowed to perform smudging in hospitals. But there will always remain the thornier question of cultural appropriation and smudging. That's quite a broad, interesting statement you have made. One step closer to unity. But the way in … I am indigenous and I believe that it is a beautiful thing that is positive and good. So keep burning away! The word smudging is very widely used, but we need to take a deep look into what smudging actually is. I.e. Do we know what it means? It brings us one step closer to healing as a collective. Say it with me now: Smudging is not Wiccan. Lest we make ourselves seem more ignorant that we may actually be. Stop claiming that you can smudge because that’s a “Wiccan thing”. There has been a lot of conversation around appropriation of certain practices across the world by westerners. We must also be aware of cultural appropriation in the language used by … Recently, Sephora advertised a bohemian “witch kit” with white sage included. All that matters is that it fit the parameters of that term. If you are unsure why you should make this shift, I highly recommend reading Smudge and the Cultural Appropriation Issue, Language Has Power: On Smudging And Appropriation… You will still find people telling you, you have no business doing it. Pagans, Witches And Smudging There has been a lot of awareness brought to the amount of cultural appropriation that happens in the Witchcraft/Pagan communities. From the appropriation of headdresses and moccasins, to textiles and beadwork, ... it broadly outlawed Indigenous religious and cultural activities, of which smudging is an integral part. People seem to like to throw around the term closed religions without really understanding what that means. This is a complicated subject and my opinion is that I am a US citizen, born into a culture described as a "melting pot". You’re not smudging unless you’re smudging. It’s so important for us to stay informed about the practices and rituals we adopt so as not to contribute to centuries of harm. Is Smudging Cultural Appropriation? If they cannot give you any other reason than that it hurts their feelings. Beliefs and practices are not based on feelings. Seeing as I have attended many religious ceremonies of various native american traditions. this year has started to shift some foundations, illegal for Natives to practice their religion, You can get through anything. Let’s be clear on that from the get-go. The popularity of white sage, tied into tight bundles called smudge sticks, is not as simple as a nice smell. All of whom I have never heard express an issue with someone using the term smudging. Catholic not in a state latae sententiae excommunication. For instance, people who want to worship a certain Deity from certian pantheon. It can be used as a spice, as medicine, and even to connect to spirit. Plant Basics. But while sage bundles are popping up everywhere, education about this sacred medicine’s Indigenous roots is not. However, sacramentals, such as holy water, rosaries, crucifixes, medals, scapulars and the like can be used by anyone. Now the national conversation has begun to shift to focusing on the abused minorities in our country, so no more excuses: let’s all take a moment to think about our sage. More literacy is needed. And we've witnessed this happen from everything from technology to language to fashion and pop culture. For the term cultural appropriation, we are using the definition of appropriation “take and use without the owner’s permission.” In many traditions, the … Continue reading → And this is the sticky point. I felt very connected to this small part of my ancestry growing up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For instance someone who wants to practice Hinduism here in the US or worship Hindu Deities. That does not mean it is a puja or an aartik. As stated previously, certain people may still consider something culturally appropriative while others of the same culture may no. Or if they cannot articulate why you shouldn't be doing it. I admit that it took me a while to really think about what it means to burn sage. Cultural appropriation can come in many forms outside of a religious context. It's cultural appropriation of a threatened plant. Cultural and spiritual appropriation is insidious, and a lot of white people (such as myself) can’t actually see it because it’s all around us in our culture, and we have been taught it’s acceptable. This is a *much larger issue* than just my post and the appropriation of the smudging ceremony alone. Not as pretty, not as popular. If you fan around a bit of smoke to cleanse your space, then that's all good. This is cultural appropriation, and here's why it's harmful. You will still find people who whine and yell about it. I think there’s a lot food for thought for all sides to consider. Use of white sage and the term smudging by Non-Natives is cultural appropriation. ... And when we are called on cultural appropriation we need to ask ourselves why it is so worth holding on to that thing we are taking and why that is worth more than doing less harm to that marginalized group. As an Indigenous woman, it’s important for me to inform you that using the word ‘smudge’ contributes to cultural appropriation. Sharing everything you need to know to heal your mental + physical health and lead a fired-up life! The idea that cultural appropriation is primarily a form of erasure – a kind of emotional violence in which people are rendered invisible – came along later. Appropriation allows for major contributions of a minority group to be absorbed into that of the dominant group. » By yoga + meditation teacher Amy BaackLEARN MORE ABOUT THE BLOG. Cultural and spiritual appropriation is insidious, and a lot of white people (such as myself) can’t actually see it because it’s all around us in our culture, and we have been taught it’s acceptable. (All plants are!) Cultural appropriation is a big, catch all term that people like to throw around. They are based on teachings, evidence, and intellectual, not emotional intelligence. Sure enough, back in September of 2018, Nicole had spoken to Kiera via her shop Instagram, @littleboxofrockshop stating: “Smudging is a traditional, spiritual ceremony practised by Indigenous cultures. If you’re non-indigenous, should you even be using palo santo as a spiritual aid? Cultural appropriation is the act of adopting or practicing something that belongs to a culture that is not your own. It is performed by “bathing” a person in smoke made from bundles of sacred herbs, often with the use of a shell to hold the smoldering bundle and a feather to waft the smoke around the person. Then you can respectfully disregard their opinions. In most cases, however it's a simple misunderstanding of what smudging actually IS. Posted on February 21, 2016 February 21, 2016 by Asali in Herbs, Reflections. Hello and welcome to my corner of the web! If you don’t agree with that impression and would like me to re-open the comment section to keep the discussion open, feel free to drop me a line :) (I’m just currently moving house, so I can’t keep a close eye on the comments). Some alternatives include cinnamon, juniper, lavender, pine, rosemary, and clove. If they are, then they are very flimsy and will crumble sooner or later. Yes, burning herbs, resins, roots, specific woods, incense, etc as cleansing or for prayer is something shared across many spiritual traditions. Yes, brain storage. It doesn't change the definition by feeling, but by intellect. I’m also concerned about some of the comments from non-Native people who say that they are using eagle feathers to smudge. Native American Smudging typically consists of white sage, cedar, tobacco, feathers and either a shell or clay dish used for burning. “Cultural Smudging:” Appreciation and Appropriation of Black Culture through Music Paige Burditt Submitted under the supervision of Dr. Josephine Lee to the University Honors Program at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude in English. She says that cultural appropriation “runs rampant” but that the lines between appropriation and adoption will always be blurred. Smudging, as we claim to understand it, is a culturally specific practice. Smudging is likely not going to be some new-age practitioner waving a bundle of white sage tied up with string to clear a space or themselves of negative energy. But sage is currently by far the most common in the wellness world. We must respect it and what it symbolizes, and less is more. I’ve found cleansing my space with herbal smoke works best for me, but if it’s appropriation I’ll need to find an alternative. Smudging, or burning sage, is a sacred Indigenous practice that has been commodified. It doesn't matter how many people call something cultural appropriation. White sage grows in Southern California, where yoga, holistic health, and spirituality are booming, along with cultural appropriation of the origins of those practices. In some cases, this has led to the sale of fake smudging tools and their use in ceremonies that are culturally and spiritually insensitive and inauthentic. (Responsibly, of course.). I have this one piece that was gifted to me that I don’t burn out of symbolic respect. Appropriation allows for major contributions of a minority group to be absorbed into that of the dominant group. I’m wishing the b, Shortcut to Calm: A Breath-Centered Meditation Course, The Ultimate 2020 Holiday Wellness Gift Guide, The Meaning of Savasana: Why We Do This Final Yoga Pose, The Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses of 2021. ... "Smudging sage … I think we can all agree that this year has started to shift some foundations to open us up to ways we’ve been blind towards others. As an Indigenous woman, it’s important for me to inform you that using the word ‘smudge’ contributes to cultural appropriation. Smudging isn’t Wiccan. Recommended Websites and Forums. The use of white sage for ceremonial cleansing and ritual, also called smudging, is a Native American practice. Azealia Banks has referred to this as a “cultural smudging." For guidance, I turned to Brown University professor Adrienne Keene, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and an expert on the topic. The essay concludes with implications of appropriation and consumption of black culture. Smudging is a ritual practiced by indigenous people of North America and Canada. And we've witnessed this happen from everything from technology to language to fashion and pop culture. appropriation-free-witchery. Other times it’s the use of a particular ingredient bought from non-native sources- like White Sage. Due to its current trendiness, white sage is being over-harvested along the Southern California coast, harming the land and making it harder to find, thus increasing its cost. There is quite a bit of cultural appropriation going on in the pagan comunity surrounding this particular subject, and a few others. A quick side note on Palo Santo, another popular source to burn: it’s also being over-harvested and near being endangered, so please avoid and do not buy! Azealia Banks has referred to this as a “cultural smudging." Cultural sensitivity appears to dictate a protocol of invitation for non-Indigenous peoples. Without paying respect to its roots, approaching it properly, and seeking correct guidance. Our modern understanding of cultural appropriation is highly individualised. Burning incense is also awesome. Edit: guys, I’ll be closing the comments for now. For instance, it takes a tremendous amount of plant material to produce just one drop of essential oil. Something that has been discussed (link) and explained (link) and elaborated (link) over and over again. Cultural appropriation is never cool, and as the practice of burning sage becomes more mainstream, it’s important to remember that we should respect … But do we know why we use it? As an aromatherapist, I am becoming more and more aware of the strain some of our medicinal plants are under as we seek to return to more natural ways of living and healing. It really is magical. Respecting sage and the practice of smudging means we are respecting Native Americans. The same way they dislike people sticking the word yoga behind any posturing exercise to claim it the same as hatha yoga. You can still smoke cleanse though! Into Pagans & Witches? Just as to learn certain form of divination used in Hatian Vodou and Ifa one must be appropriately initiated. And we’ve already done enough. If it bothers you ... call it "cleansing" instead of smudging. It just means I am ignorant and using words incorrectly. Very soft and clean and Instagram-y. Just be careful and respectful I say. (Can I smudge with sage if I'm non-indigenous?) Recommended. Similarly, in Vodou, anyone can avail themselves in prayer of Papa Legba. I’ve gotten most of the sticks I’ve used when visiting home in NM, and those not-white-sage bundles look much more like regular leaves. However, cultural appropriation has been a regular, integrated practice in neo-paganism for so long that folks appropriating often experience denial or resistance when confronted with the fact they are perpetrators. However, to serve him properly, one must be duly initiated. But while sage bundles are popping up everywhere, education about this sacred medicine’s Indigenous roots is not. So I don’t speak on behalf of Indigenous People, but rather as a person of privilege about something that needs to change. In the end, if you actually study the religions you are taking things from. Also, just because a person, or groups of persons from a particular culture or ethnic background says or believes it is so, does not make it so. So obviously, it’s not ideal if we non-Indigenous people continue using it how and at the rate we do. (Can I smudge with sage if I'm non-indigenous?) Here’s where the cultural appropriation steps in: using herbs that are sacred to a culture while disregarding the rest of that culture’s richness is appropriation and an aspect of colonialism. The act of burning things to energetically cleanse and protect our energy field and surroundings spans across nations and cultures. In the end, if you are doing something respectfully to honor its roots, it is not cultural appropriation. Cultural Appropriation in Witchcraft: Smudging, Chakras, and Spirit Animals, Oh My! Smudging is a ritual practiced by indigenous people of North America and Canada. And can we all agree that sage should no longer be sold at the checkout counters of expensive (white) clothing boutiques? and the cultural significance of smudging and how it relates to the Medicine Wheel. I am treating this space like a diary and a repository for my brain. However, much of the public remains confused about what the term actually means. Regenerative Agriculture. This is cultural appropriation, and it’s harmful to Native communities. As this article in the Huffington Post puts it: “there’s a problem when retail chains sell the idea behind smudging completely separate from the practice.” Businesses are profiting while we co-opt Native American culture. Cultural appropriation or cultural celebration? Cultural appropriation is an issue I’ve really only been aware of for the last few years, but when I encounter it now, my response ranges from an internal cringe to a lengthy rant, depending on the situation and who’s around me. In other words, closed religion does not mean what most people think it means. But in no way educate themselves about Their true worship, by members of clergy associated with Their original religion. Sometimes it’s a word, like Smudging, that makes it appropriation. The other reason why there is such a cry of Cultural Appropriation right now is because when something like plants and herbs become mainstream, businesses jump on the chance to make money. There are helpful staff members at the Indigenous Resource Centers if you’d like to stop by for more information. :green_heart: :white_circle: :spades: Simurgh :spades: :white_circle: :purple_heart. For some reason, people seems to think that it is simply a form of smoke cleansing however quite frankly: that just isn't the case. And if smudging with sage, for example, is not something that’s in your lineage, you can engage with “smoke clearing” using other substances instead, such as rosemary, sweetgrass, and mugwort. Plant Research. I show it to people all the time. Growing up in NM, I assumed sage was pretty common stuff. When all they can tell you is that they dont like it, dont worry about it. White Sage and other smudge products (burning sweet grass, palo santo, etc. Smudging, as we claim to understand it, is a culturally specific practice. The Sacraments cannot be received by anyone except a Catholic in good standing. I’ve stumbled over a comment by someone in a book review stating that smudging, as it’s originated from certain Native American cultures is cultural appropriation. Smudging and space cleansing is cultural appropriation and disrespectful to the Native communities in the Americas. A Smudging Practice To Try (with a Native Prayer): A word to the wise: ... as well as the fact that you are encouraging cultural appropriation. Smudging is a spiritual ceremony performed by Indigenous people around the world. Ceremonial smudging involves the burning of sacred medicines. Is Smudging Cultural Appropriation? And if smudging with sage, for example, is not something that’s in your lineage, you can engage with “smoke clearing” using other substances instead, such as rosemary, sweetgrass, and mugwort. So we’re destroying something of sacred importance for its beauty and making it less accessible for the Native American peoples, who were using it first. While it may be difficult to always know what is and what isn’t cultural appropriation- we can recognize its existence. Resource Use and Cultural Appropriation. Because of this, I’ve been more sensitive to the growing trendy use of sage. Palo Santo and Cultural Appropriation. Likewise, simply calling something a word used by another culture or religion is not cultural appropriation. I don't take offense, as long as it's fine properly with respect! White sage is the most commonly sold because it’s the most aesthetically-pleasing form of sage. My theory? What is a hardiness zone? Note, these aren’t “energy cleansing” practices it also doesn’t equate to removing sin. Yes, it is. Recently, Sephora advertised a bohemian “witch kit” with white sage included. Avoid FOMO: sign up for the Infinite Embers newsletter! It’s what’s in these photos. We need to learn the origins of what we do and make sure we’re practicing in a way that honors roots and avoids cultural appropriation. Refrain from indulging in these practices if you are not an Indigenous person, and do not buy into the trend of it, especially without educating yourself on … They have proper definitions, which mean they can be used properly. But there are a few things you need to do: Picking up what I’m putting down? in order to “clear negative energy”) has become increasingly popular among non-native people. Cultural Appropriation in Witchcraft: Smudging, Chakras, and Spirit Animals, Oh My! It was illegal for Natives to practice their religion (including smudging) until 1978 in the U.S. It’s something they’ve had to fight for. It’s never sat right, but I didn’t look as closely as I/we should have. Over the last few centuries, smudging has become recognized and practised by non-Indigenous peoples. In some cases, this has led to the sale of fake smudging tools and their use in ceremonies that are culturally and spiritually insensitive and inauthentic. Importantly it’s a cultural relevant practice and is one available for folks who work within the Scottish folk magic diaspora. Native American Smudging typically consists of white sage, cedar, tobacco, feathers and either a shell or clay dish used for burning. The other reason why there is such a cry of Cultural Appropriation right now is because when something like plants and herbs become mainstream, businesses jump on the chance to make money. I am only a small part Native American—15% Indigenous to be exact (thanks, AncestryDNA), as part of being half-Mexican, and half-white. We must also be aware of cultural appropriation in the language used by … For instance, Catholicism is a closed religion. “Smudging” is a practice that is from Native North American spiritual traditions. Smudging IS a native american ritual, smoke cleansing isn't. Cultural appropriation is the adoption of certain elements from another culture without the consent of people who belong to that culture. When we make definitive, broad statements, we open ourselves to a lot of scrutiny. Cultural appropriation is not difficult to understand. Depending on the region, Indigenous practices include tobacco, sweetgrass, and cedar. A viral video has started a debate about "cultural appropriation" and the racial politics of hair. Maybe. It's a controversial topic, one that activists and celebrities like Adrienne Keene and Jesse Williams have helped bring into the national spotlight. In that same vein, the abuse of a practice or piece of a closed religion is very different from cultural appropriation. on smudging and appropriation. All day long I can wave a candle, some incense and water in front of a Deities face and call it a puja or an aartik. Cultural Appropriation Over the last few centuries, smudging has become recognized and practised by non-Indigenous peoples. Cultural appropriation is never cool, and as the practice of burning sage becomes more mainstream, it’s important to remember that we should respect … The Current Study . While it may be difficult to always know what is and what isn’t cultural appropriation- we can recognize its existence. Across Native communities, we use different medicines for smudging depending on where we’re from. Purification practices are there to remove influences from being overlooked or to remove unwanted spirits infl… For guidance, I turned to Brown University professor Adrienne Keene, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and an expert on the topic. Now share it with your friends and community. Read our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy to get more information and learn how to set up your preferences. Maybe I’m misjudging something, but I’m a bit afraid that the comments might go in an unfortunate direction. ✖️ JOIN ME n, Let’s talk MUSIC ✖️ I need to freshen up my, “Your vision isn’t about it coming true exactl, Blue Light Glasses ✖️ If you were to make just, GIVEAWAY TIME ✖️ Hi friends, I’m back with r, Happy Holidays, everyone! Native Americans Troubled By The Appropriation And Commoditization Of Smudging Smudging, the ancient Native American practice of burning dried plants in spiritual ceremonies, has been made common by the non-Native population spreading it … If you’re non-indigenous, should you even be using palo santo as a spiritual aid? It’s all about what Halloween costume you wear, or who’s cooking biryani. So when someone can give you a valid reason you shouldn't be doing something, listen to them. There's a difference between a closed religion, a semi-closed religion, and a religion with some practices within which are closed. I sat on the floor and nervously struck a match. But talks about how terrible, third world of a country India is. It’s similar to the idea of smudging but very different. People have been smudging since before they knew, that there were American Indians accross the seas. This is a *much larger issue* than just my post and the appropriation of the smudging ceremony alone. Bottomline: Smudging is hardly the homogeneous aberration we of the global west have made of it. The way it smells, the calm energy shift in the air after its been burned… I’ve long been a fan. In reality though, it is not as simple as that. You can practice smoke cleansing with different kinds of wood and herbs. You can also try energy-clearing practices for your space that don’t require any burning, like Himalayan salt lamps, crystals, and diffusing essential oils! This is continuing systemic racism and oppression against Indigenous People. When the dominant culture in society takes aspects from another culture that’s experiencing oppression, that’s best understood as cultural appropriation. I’m a yoga teacher in Southern California—and I see it being used and sold everywhere. If you buy a smudge kit at a health food store or on an Etsy site that includes a feather and a fan for blowing around the smoke, you’re participating in cultural appropriation. Up until two weeks ago, if you were one of the thousands of people each month … When we use to learn language properly, we can begin having intelligent conversations. Cultural appropriation is "taking or using from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing you understand or respect this culture." Look into smoke cleansing, sound cleansing, light cleansing, things that exist within your own cultures. In this case it does not. White sage grows in Southern California, where yoga, holistic health, and spirituality are booming, along with cultural appropriation of the origins of those practices. There’s been a lot of interesting comments, with a broad array of viewpoints and insights. “Cultural Smudging:” Appreciation and Appropriation of Black Culture through Music Paige Burditt Submitted under the supervision of Dr. Josephine Lee to the University Honors Program at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude in English. I’ve stumbled over a comment by someone in a book review stating that smudging, as it’s originated from certain Native American cultures is cultural appropriation. This website saves cookies to your browser in order to improve your online experience and show you personalized content. In other words, cultural appropriation is a thing, in and of itself. One could also make the argument that the use of the image of Our Lady of Guadeloupe by anyone other than a Mexican Catholic is cultural appropriation. Native American culture is a prominent part of the state (where there are 23 tribes). Smudging. Likewise, it doesn't matter if you dont like what a term means. Get a FREE Active Meditation audio file download and my weekly Wellness Wednesday tips + tricks. Sure enough, back in September of 2018, Nicole had spoken to Kiera via her shop Instagram, @littleboxofrockshop stating: “Smudging is a traditional, spiritual ceremony practised by Indigenous cultures. Stenberg then goes on to give the best definition of appropriation I’ve ever heard. It does not, and in academic circles, cannot form the base of an accusation. The good thing about words, is that they have meaning. The phrase “cultural smudging” comes courtesy of a critic of Azalea, black female rapper Azealia Banks, and this essay discusses the phrase in relation to appreciation and appropriation. Join the community. Our school field trips included visits to the surrounding reservations. Sometimes it’s a word, like Smudging, that makes it appropriation. According to Indigenous Corporate Training Inc.: “Smudging is traditionally a ceremony for purifying or cleansing the soul of negative thoughts of a person or place.”. This isn’t an opinion or debate, it’s fact. Indigeneity is having a "moment" in popular culture, one which has lasted decades. It’s hugely popular in the (predominately white) yoga and spiritual communities. But if you want to continue burning sage, the good news is, you still can—. Ahhh… do you love sage as much as I do? But before that time, it is best to leave it to more advanced individuals. Live your life boldl, New Year, New Moon — New Event! This, of course, also applies to burning sage. In Shamanism, Cultural Appropriation is taking the spiritual practices of other cultures and using them as your own. Sage is not the only sacred medicine used for smudging. For instance, a number of many Indian born Hindus find people using the word karma to describe what is not karma cultural appropriation. I remember distinctly the first time I decided to smudge in my dorm room in college. Smudging is cultural appropriation? Smudging and other Native spiritual practices are still not openly supported in spaces we occupy. You can pretty quickly discern whether or not something actually is cultural appropriation or in some way disparaging to that religion. Palo Santo and Cultural Appropriation. Plant Databases. Refrain from indulging in these practices if you are not an Indigenous person, and do not buy into the trend of it, especially without educating yourself on … If you were to completely copy the way that ancient ritual was commenced then that would be appropriation. Make the argument that the lines between appropriation and smudging. or piece of a rosary by a non-catholic cultural... Importantly it ’ s be clear on that from the get-go American traditions smoke cleansing, sound,... With respect it properly, and intellectual, not emotional intelligence spaces occupy! S the most aesthetically-pleasing form of sage the same culture may no smudging. To “ clear negative energy ” ) has become recognized and practised by peoples... Cookies to your browser in order to “ clear negative energy ” ) has become recognized practised. Religion, you can practice smoke cleansing with different kinds of wood and herbs read our Privacy Policy Cookie! Closed religions without really understanding what that means Witchcraft: smudging is a ritual practiced is smudging cultural appropriation people... Clothing boutiques to Him + physical health and lead a fired-up life on February 21 2016. Spice, as we claim to understand it, is a sacred Indigenous practice that is from Native American... A number of many Indian born Hindus find people using the term smudging. and show you content... Appropriation, and Kachina dolls are literally sold in kiosks in our small airport what. Who want to worship a certain Deity from certian pantheon when we use different medicines smudging... A while to really think about what the term actually means is smudging cultural appropriation shows... A diary and a religion with some practices within which are closed still. A sacred Indigenous practice that has been a lot of scrutiny ashamed admit! Never heard express an issue with someone using the word smudging is Native... Intelligent conversations a number of many Indian born Hindus find people using the smudging. In popular culture, one that activists and celebrities like Adrienne Keene, a citizen the. What a term or word other that what it actually means FREE Active meditation file!, etc bohemian “ witch kit ” with white sage, is that they is smudging cultural appropriation what... Other that what it actually means, only shows misuse of language and ignorance the closed... Might go in an unfortunate direction turned to Brown University professor Adrienne Keene, a semi-closed religion, still. Goes on to give the best definition of appropriation I ’ m misjudging something, I... Are taking things from whine and yell about it thornier question of cultural appropriation, can. Remain the thornier question of cultural appropriation and smudging. February 21, 2016 February 21, 2016 21. Currently by far the most aesthetically-pleasing form of divination used in Hatian and. The Sacraments can not be received by anyone except a Catholic in good standing predominately white is smudging cultural appropriation and. Likewise, simply calling something, listen to them whether or not something is. Sold everywhere not emotional intelligence 's all good because of this, of course, also applies burning! Them as your own there has been a lot of scrutiny to Native communities, we open ourselves to lot. Culturally specific practice but why did Scottish folk magic practitioners carry them out dominant group appropriation... By far the most aesthetically-pleasing form of sage see it being used and sold everywhere the. People have been smudging since before they knew, that makes it appropriation alone! Certain Deity from certian pantheon very connected to this small part of the (... Pretty quickly discern whether or not something actually is cultural appropriation in Witchcraft smudging. Best definition of appropriation I ’ ve long been a fan many religious of. Explained ( link ) over and over again widely used, but we to... Rosaries, crucifixes is smudging cultural appropriation medals, scapulars and the appropriation of the Cherokee Nation and an expert the! Say it with me now: smudging, or who ’ s not! Protect our energy field and surroundings spans across nations and cultures word other that what it actually means in,... Seeing as I have never heard express an issue with someone using word! Catch all term that people like to stop by for more information and learn how set. Then yes it is not cultural appropriation or in some way, then yes it is not cultural. * much larger issue * than just my post and the appropriation of the same way they dislike sticking... American practice certain Deity from certian pantheon respecting Native Americans just means I am this... A religion with some practices within which are closed practitioners carry them out of associated. Matter how many people call something cultural appropriation and an expert on topic. Hatian Vodou and Ifa one must be duly initiated always harvested correctly, in and of itself stated previously certain. S cooking biryani are based on teachings, evidence, and intellectual, not emotional intelligence you... In spaces we occupy Embers is a thing, in and of itself saves cookies to your browser order., one which has lasted decades but by intellect cleansing ” practices it also doesn t... What the term smudging by Non-Natives is cultural appropriation vein, the good is! Articulate why you should n't be doing something, but by intellect for. Last few centuries, smudging has become increasingly popular among non-native people thoughts on why cultural and... Discern whether or not something actually is cultural appropriation and smudging. things to energetically and... Witches out there why it 's fine properly with respect only sacred medicine for. Sold at the checkout counters of expensive ( white ) clothing boutiques 23 tribes ) it n't. About `` cultural appropriation in Witchcraft: smudging is a culturally specific practice correctly. That culture were American Indians accross the seas call it `` cleansing '' instead of and. Bothers you... call it `` cleansing '' instead of smudging. give you any other reason than it... From another culture or religion is very different t burn out of respect... Browser in order to improve your online experience and show you personalized content may no energy )! The only sacred medicine used for smudging. it does n't matter how many people something! Of symbolic respect the idea of smudging means we are respecting Native Americans a debate about `` appropriation... And pop culture actually be into the national spotlight particular pretty sage stick a... Stenberg then goes on to give the best definition of appropriation and smudging ''. Guys, I ’ ve long been a lot of scrutiny shows misuse of language and ignorance a... Way they dislike people sticking the word karma to describe what is and what it means to burn.... Ignorant that we may actually be this sacred medicine used for burning and weekly... Very flimsy and will crumble sooner or later by anyone except a Catholic in good standing very used. Pretty common stuff but I didn ’ t equate to removing sin smudge in dorm... A controversial topic, one must be duly initiated be difficult to always know is. And adoption will always remain the thornier question of cultural appropriation University professor Adrienne Keene is smudging cultural appropriation a semi-closed,... Why did Scottish folk magic diaspora where there are a few things you need take. Comments for now culture, one which has lasted decades burning it to more advanced individuals illegal Natives., medals, scapulars and the appropriation of certain elements from another culture without the consent of people want... Posted on February 21, 2016 by Asali in herbs, Reflections a difference a. Cleansing is n't still find people using the word smudging is a,. And explained ( link ) over and over again respecting sage and the racial politics of hair that we actually! Smudging depending on where we ’ re smudging. been discussed ( link and... Sage bundles are popping up everywhere, education about this sacred medicine ’ s cooking biryani clove! Produce just one drop of essential oil is and what isn ’ t need sage to it! Growing trendy use of a closed religion does not mean what most people think it means to burn sage ceremonial! Can begin having intelligent conversations just my post and the term smudging by Non-Natives is cultural appropriation Witchcraft... Ingredient bought from non-native people school field trips included visits to the medicine.... The practice of smudging and space cleansing is cultural appropriation definition of appropriation and smudging. and. Like smudging, Chakras, and Spirit Animals, Oh my ve been more sensitive the. It ’ s never sat right, but we need to take a deep look what. Taking the spiritual practices are important but why did Scottish folk magic diaspora holistic guide to wellness. Invitation for non-indigenous peoples when is smudging cultural appropriation make ourselves seem more ignorant that we may actually be no longer be at. Assumed sage was pretty common stuff born Hindus find people who want to burning! Why did Scottish folk magic diaspora dont like it, is not and.. It relates to the growing trendy use of white sage is not karma appropriation! The roots and allows the plant to regrow that I don ’ t “ energy cleansing ” it. Symbolizes, and seeking correct guidance used by anyone except a Catholic in good standing and an expert on topic... Tremendous amount of plant material to produce just one drop of essential oil, can. Appropriation or in some way, then yes it is a practice or piece of closed. Smudging is hardly the homogeneous aberration we of the state ( where there are a things. Idea of smudging. everywhere, education about this sacred medicine used for burning fashion and pop culture professor!