Native American Tribes Adopt Tobacco Protections

A Good Idea

Description

The Native American population of Montana has a high rate of tobacco product use that results in disease and premature death. However, tribal elders have resisted tobacco control policies that could potentially hinder the cultural traditions that involve tobacco use.

Over a four-year period, the Native American Tobacco Coalition of Montana engaged with tribal elders in a knowledge exchange. The elders taught the historical and ceremonial significance of traditional tobacco use, and in turn learned about the impact of commercial tobacco use on their community's health. This led to a distinction between sacred use of tobacco and the use of commercial tobacco.

Goal / Mission

To create successful smoke-free strategies that are rooted in cultural tradition.

Impact

By recognizing the cultural traditions of sacred tobacco use, an inter-tribal coalition was successful in implementing culturally appropriate tobacco protections for tribal members.

Results / Accomplishments

Since the sacred use of tobacco has been recognized as a cultural tradition to be protected, tribal elders have supported the implementation of tobacco use reduction efforts such as health fairs, youth-focused events, and trainings. The coalition has also created smoke-free indoor environments in tribal facilities, including casinos.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Native American Tobacco Coalition of Montana
Primary Contact
Indigenous Cultural Wellness & Native American Tobacco Coalition of Montana
http://www.keeptobaccosacred.org/contacts
Topics
Health / Alcohol & Drug Use
Organization(s)
Native American Tobacco Coalition of Montana
Source
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Location
Montana
For more details
Target Audience
Racial/Ethnic Minorities
Additional Audience
Native Americans, Indigenous Americans