More than 120 staff, physicians, volunteers, patients, and community members gathered in Hotel Dieu Shaver’s Healing Garden on June 2 for a special Smudging Ceremony and teaching, marking the first event of its kind hosted by the hospital.
Held in recognition of National Indigenous History Month, the ceremony provided an opportunity to learn about Indigenous traditions, reflect on the importance of cultural understanding, and come together in a spirit of respect, healing, and reconciliation.
The event was led by Jackie Labonte, Traditional Healing Coordinator with De dwa da dehs nye>s Aboriginal Health Centre, alongside her life partner, Oliver Nobosin. Together, they shared teachings about the significance of smudging and Indigenous healing traditions before inviting participants to take part in a traditional smudging ceremony. The gathering concluded with drumming and song, creating a meaningful and memorable experience for all in attendance.
The strong turnout reflected a shared desire across the HDS community to learn, listen, and deepen understanding of Indigenous culture, spirituality, and healing practices. Hotel Dieu Shaver is grateful to Jackie and Oliver for generously sharing their knowledge, traditions, and gifts with attendees throughout the ceremony.
Understanding Smudging
Smudging is a traditional Indigenous spiritual practice involving the burning of sacred medicines, such as sage, cedar, sweetgrass, or tobacco. The smoke is used in a ceremonial way for cleansing, healing, prayer, reflection, and connection.
For many Indigenous Peoples, smudging is an important cultural and spiritual practice that supports well-being and healing. It may be used to purify a space, prepare for important conversations or ceremonies, seek guidance, or provide comfort during times of stress and illness.
As part of its commitment to culturally appropriate care, Hotel Dieu Shaver implemented a Smudging Policy in 2025. The policy outlines a process that enables Indigenous patients and families to request a smudging ceremony while receiving care at HDS and ensures staff have the guidance needed to safely support these requests.
The policy aligns with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, including Action #22, which calls upon health-care organizations to recognize the value of Indigenous healing practices and use them in collaboration with Indigenous healers and Elders when requested by Indigenous patients.
Under the policy, Indigenous patients and their families may request a smudging ceremony during their stay or visit at HDS. The hospital works collaboratively with patients, families, Elders, Indigenous partners, Spiritual Care, and clinical teams to facilitate ceremonies in a manner that respects cultural traditions while maintaining a safe care environment.
Continuing the Journey
Although the June 2 ceremony was the first hospital-wide smudging event hosted by Hotel Dieu Shaver, it also served as a meaningful reflection of the organization's commitment to reconciliation and culturally safe care, principles that are embedded within HDS's Smudging Policy and broader Mission and Values.
As National Indigenous History Month continues, HDS encourages staff, patients, families, and community members to explore opportunities to learn more about Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives, and to reflect on how we can continue building a more inclusive and respectful healthcare environment for all.
Hotel Dieu Shaver extends its sincere thanks to Jackie and Oliver for leading the ceremony, and to everyone who joined us in the Healing Garden for this meaningful occasion.
