Question 1

Where can I park at the beginning of the procession?

Accepted Answer

If you drive, you may use any campus parking without needing a parking pass since it is the weekend. The most convenient parking would be numbers 214 and 215 on this map: https://www.northwestern.edu/transportation-parking/evanston-parking/parking-map/.

Question 2

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

We ask that you wear dark sombre colors. Good walking shoes are highly recommended and you will likely want to dress in layers, as the temperature changes a lot through the walk with building cover and the winds from the lake.

Question 3

What do you recommend that I bring?

Accepted Answer

Sunglasses, hat, gloves, water, snacks, chapstick, bandaids, phone, extra phone batteries.

Question 4

Can I take pictures during the procession?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but we recommend you do so infrequently and discreetly so that you and the other participants can remain in the moment and the action of the procession.

Question 5

Can I come for part of the procession instead of the whole thing?

Accepted Answer

We strongly encourage that you try to do the whole procession, as the time dedicated to the procession and the struggle of walking 12 miles are integral to the palliative benefit we're hoping you get from this event. But with that in mind, we welcome anyone and everyone to walk with us as they can.

Question 6

What am I expected to do if I participate?

Accepted Answer

Everyone will take turns carrying the casket for 15-20 minute blocks. The pallbearers are asked to be somber while carrying the casket. The rest of us will walk behind, and we'll ask that you be respectful and quiet, but to interact with others as your feelings dictate.

Question 7

Will there be music accompanying the procession?

Accepted Answer

Yes! An amazing soundscape by artist Corey Smith will accompany us along the journey.

Question 8

What if I need to use the bathroom?

Accepted Answer

We're hoping the Lakefront bathrooms are open. If not, there is a map of bathrooms here: https://www.fleetfeet.com/s/chicago/resources/public-restroom-. Every 20 minutes when we switch pallbearers, you have the opportunity to ask our support staff member to get you to the nearest bathroom and back.

Question 9

What if I need to take a break from walking?

Accepted Answer

Every 20 minutes when we change pallbearers, if you need a rest, you can arrange with our support staff member to connect you back up to the group.

Question 10

Will I be photographed during this event?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we will have an event photographer to document this event. By participating in the event, you agree to having you photo taken. These photos will be used as documentation by Keiser as part of her work and research.

Question 11

What if I'd like to hear more about Death Studies events?

Accepted Answer

You can sign up to hear about our events here: http://deathstudies.northwestern.edu/join.html#/.

Question 12

What if I have any issues finding the event, who can I contact?

Accepted Answer

Please contact Elizabeth at elizabeth.upenieks@northwestern.edu.

Question 13

If I have any general questions about the event, who do I contact?

Accepted Answer

You can contact Mel Keiser at Death Studies, deathstudies@northwestern.edu.

Question 14

What if the weather doesn't cooperate?

Accepted Answer

We will likely not cancel if there is only light rain. If the weather looks like it will not cooperate, we will alert all registrants by 9a on April 22. We're holding April 23 & April 26 as possible rain dates.

A Practicum for Processing | Mel Keiser, Corey Smith & Sophia Campbell-Shaw

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A Practicum for Processing | Mel Keiser, Corey Smith & Sophia Campbell-Shaw

More events from Northwestern University Death Studies Research Group

Follow organizers to get events picked for you

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