As well, an important emphasis is put on the celebration of the individual’s life and the continued creation of life by the Creator. Traditions and cultural practices belonging to Anishinaabe First Nations differ from those held by Indigenous communities across Canada. It is thus important to understand that different cultures in Canada have different perspectives on death. Hospice or end-of-life care looks differently for each Canadian depending on their culture, upbringing and way of life. Learning about the numerous Indigenous approaches to death can allow members of the hospice community to better understand and respect the unique needs and wishes of Indigenous individuals as they reach the end of their life.
Indigenous Peoples: Perspectives on Death
September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day is meant to honour the thousands of lost Indigenous children and survivors of residential schools, and other oppressive means taken, as well as impacted families and communities. This day also serves as a reminder of the importance of the collective obligation of Canadians and everyone who are visitors to Turtle Island to further the reconciliation process. Education and self-reflection are vital components of reconciliation. Everyone should learn more about the oppressive history and present, impacts of intergenerational trauma, governance differences, and reflect on their own bias, stereotypes, and behaviours. We should also come to appreciate, amplify, and restore the distinct languages, cultural practices, spiritual beliefs and traditional knowledge. These were actively suppressed and now need to return in order to heal. As we come together to see the truth and continue to learn, whether that is through reading, listening, talking, by coming together in understanding, we can move forward to build reciprocal relationships to create positive long lasting impact. What can our efforts mean for Indigenous Peoples and Communities? It will help heal, restore humanity and dignity. What can this learning mean for members of the hospice and palliative care community? It means care providers are taking up the responsibility and humility that every Canadian has to contribute to right the wrongs of our past ancestors and leaders of this country. Before the arrival of settlers to Turtle Island (or what is known as North America in common language today) Indigenous communities had their own distinct practices and beliefs on death and the process of passing. One of these perspectives is held by the Anishinaabe, a group of culturally connected First Nations that traditionally lived in the Great Lakes area. Many Anishinaabe First Nations hold ceremonies before the death of an individual that are meant to help safely guide their spirit after death. Often, different sacred medicines such as sage or sweet grass are burned to purify an individual nearing death.
End of Life Rituals
How Can Rituals be a Source of Comfort for an Individuals with a Life-Limiting Illness?
In the context of hospice care, many people believe that rituals are inherently religious. Many consider rituals to be certain actions performed before an individual’s death that align with their spiritual beliefs. However, rituals are not necessary religious, and can be a source of comfort for any individual with a life-limiting illness and their loved ones. Rituals are actions that are meant to show care and promote the comfort of an individual before their death. While some rituals can be as simple as holding an individual’s hand, sitting next to them or brushing their hair, other rituals are more complex. Sometimes loved ones will hum or sing a certain song, read a story, or remind the individual that they are loved and that they will be remembered. Rituals can be chosen and performed based on the specific needs and wishes of an individual and their loved ones and thus differ greatly. Rituals are especially beneficial for both patients in hospice care and their family members. Rituals can serve as a source of comfort or relaxation during a particularly difficult or stressful time, such as the period before death. The calming nature of rituals can soothe the feelings of pain and sadness that surround an individual’s end of life. Rituals can also be a way of expressing love for an individual who is facing death. In this way, performing rituals can not only improve the comfort of an individual at the end of their life, but also help family members cope with the loss of a loved one.
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