Death in Native American Culture
Native American societies have a distinctive outlook on death, exemplified by their acceptance of the passage of time as a regular, unavoidable part of the cycle of life. People do not view death as a taboo subject but as a journey of faith in which they find and achieve their purpose in life. According to Gabbay and Fins (2019), the traditional healer, often referred to as a Shaman, plays a crucial role in providing both spiritual and physical care to meet the needs of the dying individual. Taking a holistic approach to end-of-life care helps the Native American community come closer together and provides more opportunities for social support (Hazell, n.d.). The manner in which the dead are disposed of varies from tribe to tribe, with tree interment being one method that represents a full circle with one’s cultural heritage.
Death in the White US Culture
In contrast, the issue of death is still considered taboo in the culture of the United States, with funerals being held as a way to show respect for the departed and offer comfort to those who are grieving. On the other hand, one’s view of death can be shaped by various characteristics, including age, race, and socioeconomic class.
Death in African American Culture
Omonisi (2020) found that historically, African Americans have had a more intimate connection with death than whites. African Americans are more likely to encounter worries associated with untimely deaths and occurrences within their communities. Anxiety and fear surrounding death might be exacerbated in certain areas by socioeconomic inequality and high crime rates.
Cultural Similarities Regarding Death
Despite the significant number of cultures that coexist within the United States, one thing unites them all: accepting death as an inevitable component of living. Nevertheless, people’s various religious beliefs and ethnic upbringings help to shape their attitudes toward dying and death. The Native American culture and the culture of the United States both emphasize the importance of discovering and living one’s life purpose. However, there are a variety of approaches to talking about death and making preparations for it. Some cultures are not conducive to having regular conversations about end-of-life issues.
References
Gabbay, E., & Fins, J. J. (2019). Go in peace: Brain death, reasonable accommodation and Jewish mourning rituals. Journal of Religion and Health, 58(5), 1672–1686. Web.
Hazell, L. (n.d.). Cross-cultural funeral service rituals. Funeralwise. Web.
Omonisi, A. E. (2020). How COVID-19 pandemic is changing the Africa’s elaborate burial rites, mourning and grieving. The Pan African Medical Journal, 35(2). Web.