Have you ever stopped to consider the unique needs of queer (2SLBTQI+) and BIPOC friends when it comes to their/our end-of-life planning? Our systems in the US don't protect their rights in the same way as cis-white-heteronormative people; so, everyone must think ahead about end-of-life decisions, make a plan, and make it legal – so we and those we love are protected.
Given our staid, moth-eaten, lackluster and conservative institutions which continue to wield undue influence and control of the system, it’s unequivocal that BIPOC and queer folx will have unique needs and desires to consider for end-of-life care. Afterall, many queer, trans and BIPOC people live shorter lives because of the ongoing discrimination they face – which doesn’t fade with their deaths.
Among other things, there’s also a need for cultural competency regarding Black bodies' spiritual, cultural and physical care. Clearly, that care will be unique.
Also there’s a need to affirm care for queer folx in ways stretching from gender identity issues to power of attorney circumstances for spouses/partners.
Marginalized populations could be in jeopardy after death due to outdated and discriminatory laws. So attentive death care is vital because it can reaffirm that identities will be seen, known and acknowledged and the things people care about, including family (chosen or otherwise) will be protected when the time comes.
When I widen my lens and perspective I’m guided to considering a more unique approach for myself. Funerals can be very pedestrian, scripted and unimaginative, so why not bring to life in it who we were?
Resources
Black Death, Grief, and Cultural Care Academy™
Death Queerious: Everything You Need to Know About Queer Death Care, from this page you can also download a FREE eBook for Queer Folx and Friends.
Death, Disrupted: These Funeral Home Owners Are Changing How We Celebrate the End of Life