Traditional Use of Tobacco vs Commercial Tobacco Use

For thousands of years, American Indians have used tobacco in important traditions like blessings, healing, prayer, and ceremonies. Traditional tobacco is special and used with respect, unlike the tobacco sold by companies, which has chemicals that can make people sick. It's important to know the difference between traditional and commercial tobacco to respect its culture. In an effort to reclaim sacred tobacco, and in honor of National Native American Heritage Month, Maricopa County Public Health’s Office of Tobacco Prevention & Cessation has collaborated with the Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care’s Director, Dr. John Molina (Pasqua Yaqui and Yavapai Apache) and the Shush Diné Native Shop staff to create this video project in hopes of bringing awareness and promote a healthier lifestyle. #nativehealth #FortMcDowellTribe #IntertribalCouncilofArizona #IndianHealthServices #ChicanosPorLaCausa #NativeAmericanHeritageDay #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth