A Documentary Film by Linda Wasson

 (currently in predevelopment)

Synopsis: Tobacco is considered both a sacred herb and medicine. Its use has been documented throughout the Western hemisphere by many indigenous groups. Upon arrival of Europeans, tobacco was introduced but cultural miscommunications resulted in inappropriate use almost from the beginning. The term "cash crop" is not a misnomer; tobacco leaves were valuable in the early days of the colonies. Its popularity grew exponentially and resulted in mass production and distribution.

Unfortunately, even among modern native populations, tobacco abuse has cost the health and lives of untold numbers. Laws which only allowed tobacco corporations to grow and sell tobacco, preventing the traditional use of tobacco in religious ceremonies or to be used as medicine, have been overturned or challenged to more acurately reflect indigenous needs and customs.

Recent years have seen legal challenges and a return to the more traditional growing and use of tobacco among native people. Educational programs have also been developed which disseminate information regarding commercial tobacco's danger to health and well being.  Just as in other aspects of the natural world,  tobacco use is coming full circle and regaining its rightful place as a respected herb and medicine.

Wanted! Your Stories!

Do you have a story about traditional use of tobacco? Is your tribe/nation/clan involved in the education of traditional tobacco use? Do you grow tobacco for your own use? Do you know how to best cultivate tobacco?

Did someone you know suffer from commercial tobacco-related illness? Perhaps even die?

If you would like to share any personal experience you've had regarding tobacco, whether commercial or traditional, please send an email to me, Linda Wasson, the filmmaker.

If you are interested in being interviewed for this film, please include contact information. At this time, absolutely all information will be kept confidential, as this is only preliminary information gathering. If you have any questions at all about this, please ask.