Using cultural connection to quit smoking across the Prairies

Quitting smoking or vaping can be a difficult journey, but an Indigenous-led initiative in the Canadian Prairies is offering a unique, community-based approach to help people reduce their reliance on commercial tobacco. The program, called Connect to Change, is a partnership between the Canadian Cancer Society and several other organizations.

This eight-week program is designed specifically for Indigenous communities and focuses on providing support in a way that is both holistic and culturally affirming. Instead of just focusing on the act of quitting, Connect to Change integrates various physical activities and traditional practices. These can include harvesting medicines, berry picking, or indoor activities like beading, all aimed at strengthening participants' connection to their cultural heritage.

Deena Klodt, the Connect to Change team lead at the Canadian Cancer Society, explains the program's philosophy. "For some, it might be harvesting medicines, berry picking. It could be traditional activities that … can be done indoors, beading, et cetera. And having that connection or introduction or strengthening those connections to those cultural components," she stated.

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For some, it might be harvesting medicines, berry picking. It could be traditional activities that … can be done indoors, beading, et cetera. And having that connection or introduction or strengthening those connections to those cultural components.

The program is flexible, offering land or water-based activities and can be conducted in person or online, facilitated by community group leaders. The curriculum is structured week by week, covering topics such as understanding addiction, taking control, and changing routines. Physical activity is a key component, designed to help manage cravings, and participants also receive six weeks of nicotine replacement therapy.

Upon completion of the program, former users can continue to access support through Talk Tobacco, a phone, chat, and text service available for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals across Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia. It is important to note that the program distinguishes between commercial tobacco and traditional tobacco use, clarifying that quitting commercial products does not prevent participation in traditional ceremonies like smudging.

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It’s a phone service for Indigenous peoples [for] phone, chat, and text support. We offer it in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia for any of our First Nations, Inuit, Métis, urban Indigenous individuals that are looking to quit or reduce commercial tobacco or vaping.