The Deep Roots of Grieving: Cultural Obligations, Ancestral Strength, and the Modern Workplace
In the complex tapestry of life, the threads of joy and sorrow are inextricably woven together, each giving depth and texture to our human experience. My name is Eddie Solien, a proud member of the LGBTIQA+ community, identifying as Torres Strait Islander and Papua New Guinean, and navigating the challenging waters of severe heart conditions alongside my roles as a Diversity and Inclusion Lead and Reconciliation Lead. Today, I find myself reflecting on the profound journey of grief, particularly as it unfolds within the rich fabric of my cultural heritage, and the implications it holds for modern organisations in recognising the importance of cultural leave entitlements.
Grief, a universal experience, manifests uniquely across cultures, each with its rituals and practices that provide solace and connection in the face of loss. For me, the passing of Aunty Vera has drawn me deep into the heart of these practices, reminding me of the strength and resilience inherited from our ancestors. In the traditions of my Papua New Guinean heritage, we have the Gara house – a space of communal gathering, where friends and family unite each night to share meals, sing powerful hymns and share stories. The last night before the burial we engage in the deeply spiritual practice of spending a night with the departed in an open coffin. This period of mourning is not just a farewell; it's a celebration of life, a testament to the bonds that transcend the physical realm, and a crucial process of cultural and emotional closure.
Yet, as we navigate these time-honoured rituals, a stark reality becomes apparent: the modern workplace often lacks the flexibility and understanding to accommodate the depth and duration of such cultural obligations. The grief process, especially one so intricately tied to cultural practices, cannot be confined to the standard bereavement leave allotted by most organisations. It's a profound journey that demands time, space, and the support of community and workplace alike.
Organisations today stand at a crossroads, with a growing need to recognise and honour the diverse cultural backgrounds of their employees, especially in moments of loss and mourning. Cultural leave entitlements are not just a matter of policy but a statement of respect and empathy towards the diverse needs of employees. By allowing individuals the time and space to engage fully in their cultural practices, organisations can foster a truly inclusive environment that respects and values the entirety of their employees' lives and heritage.
As we prepare Aunty Vera for her final journey, following the protocols passed down by our stoic ancestors, it's a time to draw strength from those who came before us. It's a reminder of the resilience that runs through our veins, a resilience that today's organisations can support by recognising the significance of cultural leave. Such recognition not only honours the individual and their heritage but also enriches the collective culture of the workplace, weaving a stronger, more empathetic fabric of community.
In this moment of sorrow, as we come together in the Gara house, sharing stories and songs that have echoed through generations, we are reminded of the power of ancestral strength and the importance of allowing space for cultural expressions of grief. It's a call to action for organisations to reflect on their policies, to ensure they are aligned with the realities and needs of a diverse workforce, enabling employees to honour their ancestors and fulfill their cultural obligations without fear of repercussion or misunderstanding.
Let us, like our ancestors before us, find solace in our traditions and strength in our communal bonds. And let the modern workplace evolve to embrace and support these journeys of grief and healing, recognising the deep roots of cultural obligations and the timeless wisdom of ancestral guidance.
