Deathcaring: Reclaiming Death as Part of Life
by Dawn Carson
Deathcaring is a cultural movement rooted in the idea that death belongs in the heart of community life. Rather than leaving care for the dying and dead solely to professionals and institutions, it invites us to return to more personal, participatory ways of facing the end of life—together.
At its core, Deathcaring is about reclaiming death as a natural, meaningful, and even transformative part of living. It encourages open conversations, thoughtful planning, and community-based support for the dying, the dead, and the bereaved. This approach not only honours the person who is dying but also supports the wider circle of family, friends, and community.
It also emphasizes cultural and ecological renewal. By re-engaging with traditional and sustainable practices, Deathcaring fosters a relationship with death that is holistic and environmentally conscious. It recognizes that how we care for our dead reflects how we care for life.
Deathcaring encourages people to plan, too ask questions, and too understand their rights and options. It empowers individuals and families to take an active role in deathcare, whether that means sitting vigil, preparing the body, or creating rituals that reflect their values and beliefs.
Ultimately, Deathcaring envisions a culture where death is no longer feared or hidden but embraced as an honoured part of life. It’s about showing up—with compassion, courage, and care—at one of life’s most sacred thresholds. Death matters.