How we care for our dead in the U.S. is a reflection of prevailing cultural, spiritual, and economic norms. Learn how the American funeral industry came to be in the U.S., what influences are still at play, and how you can negotiate the purchase of professional goods and services to create a conventional funeral that meets your needs. Then take a step out of the funeral industry to discover the historical precedent for caring for our own at home, how to work with professionals and authorities, and what are the legal requirements of caring for our own dead, from death to disposition.

We’ll debunk some myths about health and public safety, explore laws and policies, and explain how to create meaningful, affordable, and healing funerals that are family-directed and community supported. Considering the disastrous environmental repercussions inherent in both vault burial and cremation, people are eager to find dispositions that are dignified, affordable, and eco-conscious. We’ll talk about the redeeming qualities of green or natural burial, trends such as human composting, mushroom suits and reef balls, plus emerging processes that seek to replace death with life-affirming activities and outcomes.

This course will combine lecture with class discussion.

Image by Donelle Dreese, Heritage Acres, Cincinnati, OH