To honour Indigenous traditions and practices, Cold Lake city council could amend the municipal smoking bylaw to allow exceptions for Indigenous ceremonial use within city facilities. The proposed changes specifically aim to accommodate smudging or pipe ceremonies, which hold cultural significance for Indigenous communities.
The city’s bylaw prohibits any form of smoke within municipal buildings or facilities and in public spaces unless a permit is obtained. However, recognizing the importance of Indigenous rituals, the council is exploring ways to integrate these practices into private and public gatherings held within city premises.
Mayor Craig Copeland says they’ve asked the administration to draft the changes to the bylaw, which will be followed up by more discussion and debate at a future council meeting.
“This signifies a concerted effort by the council to embrace diversity and respect the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples,” Copeland adds.
The proposed amendments will undergo thorough deliberation during future council meetings, where they will undergo the requisite first, second, and third readings before potential approval. Central to these discussions are considerations for the health and safety of both staff and the public. Additionally, the council is contemplating limitations on where these ceremonies could be conducted within city facilities and the provision of fire safety measures such as access to fire extinguishers.