funeral

Funerals are often always two-location affairs. In Haiti, many funeral goers don't have cars and have to find alternate ways of getting from the church to the graveside. The vehicle of choice... one's own two feet as a member of the human funeral procession. The dead is driven in a hearse, and the mourners follow behind, often accompanied by a brass band.

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All ethnicities handle their deaths and funeral rites in different ways that are dictated as much by their collective religion as by the traditions of culture. For places were ethnicities are mixed, a funeral home must avail itself of all disciplines by way of funereal rituals. Depending on the family that walks in, nightlong wakes, burnt offerings, the ritualistic bathing of the dead, cremation, etc. are options. The scope can even include Medicine Men for Native Americans, a Mass for Hispanic Americans or professional mourners, as popular among Haitians.

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If one has a Haitian funeral to attend and can't decide what is appropriate attire, know that black is always best. Dark, solid colors are more representative of the ideal mourning attire than bright, bold colors like red or yellow. If black isn't an option, dark brown or purple can also be worn without offense. Of late, white has made an interesting addition to the repertoire. Women can dress fully in white or in black and white. Other colors usually show up by way of little girls' bows or sashes made from ribbons worn by family members as specific religious statements.

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Here is a picture of the funeral of the former Chairman of the National Bank of Credit BNC , also the Vice Chairman of the APB, Guiteau Toussaint. The funeral mass was held at Eglise Saint Pierre in Petion-Ville.

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