Commercial Tobacco vs. Traditional Smokes Presentation

Chinle, AZ – On September 15, 2026, Navajo Technical University hosted the “Commercial Tobacco vs. Traditional Smokes” presentation at the NTU Chinle Instructional Site. The presentation addressed the differences between commercial tobacco products and the traditional use of Native mountain smoke, including cultural practices, purposes, and health considerations.

Mr. Anson Etsitty delivered the presentation, noting high engagement and constructive dialogue among attendees.

Key discussion topics comprised:

+ Commercial tobacco products encompass cigarettes, e-cigarettes/vaping devices, and smokeless tobacco.
+ Traditional and ceremonial applications of Native mountain smoke.
+ Health implications related to commercial tobacco consumption.
+ Tobacco education and preventative strategies.
+ Safeguarding traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.

Mr. Peter Nez, on behalf of the Southwest Navajo Tobacco Education Prevention Project, detailed tobacco control initiatives within the Navajo Nation and emphasized the critical need for community education about the long-term consequences of commercial tobacco use.

Mr. Hershel Walker Clark, representing the Air Is Life Coalition, outlined efforts to enhance public awareness regarding the health risks of commercial tobacco products. Furthermore, he addressed initiatives to reclaim sacred tobacco and to support comparable efforts across Tribal communities nationwide.

The presentation provided information on commercial tobacco, traditional tobacco practices, and ongoing tobacco education and prevention efforts.

For more information, contact:

Jarvis Draper
NTU Recruiter – Chinle
E: j.draper@navajotech.edu