In our latest episode of "Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula," we discuss the ways history has shaped our practices around caring for the dead—and how these practices have, in turn, shaped who we are as a society. Cody Sanders, the author of Corpse Care: Ethics for Tending the Dead, joins me to explore the profound impact of historical events on deathcare, from Indigenous American traditions to the influence of the Civil War, African American slavery, epidemics, and the rise of ecological responsibility.
The Roots of Deathcare: A Journey Through History
Our conversation begins with us discussing the traditions of Indigenous Americans. For many Native communities, deathcare practices were sacred, deeply tied to their cultural beliefs and connection to the land. However, European colonization brought significant disruptions. These colonial forces not only imposed new practices but often weaponized deathcare, using the desecration of burial sites as a tool of control and intimidation.
Next, we discuss the Civil War's pivotal role in transforming deathcare in America. The sheer scale of death during this period led to the popularization of embalming, as families sought to preserve the bodies of their loved ones for transport home. This shift marked the beginning of the professionalization of deathcare, moving it out of the home and into the hands of funeral directors.
The African American Experience: Resilience Through Ritual
African American slavery introduced further complexities into deathcare. Enslaved Africans brought with them rich deathcare traditions, which became a vital part of their cultural identity in the face of brutal oppression. These rituals provided a sense of community and resilience, even as they were systematically dismantled by slave owners. Yet, these practices endured, shaping African American deathcare traditions that continue today.
The Impact of Epidemics: Shifting Norms in Deathcare
Epidemics have also played a significant role in shaping how we approach death and mourning. The AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s, for instance, brought about changes in the funeral industry. Due to the stigma and fear surrounding the disease, many funeral homes refused to handle the bodies of AIDS victims. This led to a notable shift towards cremation, a practice that was less common in the U.S. at the time but became more widely accepted as a result.
The Rise of Ecological Responsibility in Modern Deathcare
As we move into the present day, we explore the growing importance of ecological responsibility in deathcare. With increasing awareness of our environmental impact, many are turning to green burials, biodegradable caskets, and other eco-friendly practices. This shift not only reflects changing societal values but also represents a return to simpler, more natural deathcare methods that honor the Earth.
Embrace the Conversation
Deathcare is more than just a set of rituals—it's a reflection of our values, our history, and our vision for the future. By understanding where these practices come from, we can better appreciate the importance of honoring the dead in ways that are both respectful and meaningful.
Learn more by watching the full episode above and by sharing your thoughts in the comments.
Links/Resources:
Guest: Cody Sanders’ Book - Corpse Care: Ethics for Tending the Dead: https://www.fortresspress.com/store/search?ss=cody+sanders
Contact Cody Sanders falculty page: https://www.luthersem.edu/faculty/cody-sanders
In this episode, I mentioned that the U.S. spends between $110-150 million each year to research, analyze, and recover the 81,000 MIA/POWs from every war since World War II. This information is cited from:
"Inside the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency." Task & Purpose, https://taskandpurpose.com/military-life/defense-pow-mia-accounting-agency-dpaa/. Accessed 31 July 2024.
"POW/MIA Experience." U.S. Department of Defense, https://www.defense.gov/Multimedia/Experience/POW-MIA/. Accessed 31 July 2024.
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