COVID-19 funerals: Minorities and the digital space

Abstract

The COVID-19 worldwide pandemic brought the world to a standstill. In particular, it changed the funeral processes of communal groups. Their collective ways of mourning were disrupted, as travel bans and social distance restrictions meant people were not allowed to physically gather. Despite these restrictions, these communities were able to maintain social connection from a distance. The communities which are being addressed in this report have been able to use the digital space to collectively engage with family and friends during the grieving process. This cohort has used the digital space to ensure funerals are still communal in nature and that family and friends remain able to gather to comfort and uplift each other. As a member of my community I present the funeral narratives, communal resilience and creativity through the digital space.