Non-monogamy and Deathcare
An end-of-life resource for the non-monogamy community
About This Resource
Like many of our institutions, the current deathcare system primarily caters to monogamous relationships and nuclear families. As a result, unique needs of non-monogamous families and individuals are often overlooked. Biases or a simple lack of understanding can significantly affect crucial aspects of both life and death, including healthcare decision-making, visitation rights, funeral arrangements, child custody, and inheritance rights.
In response, OPEN has developed a guide designed specifically to assist non-monogamous families and their loved ones in navigating end-of-life planning. This resource provides a blend of practical advice, conversation starters, and legal knowledge, all specifically tailored to meet the distinctive needs of non-monogamous families and relationships.
This resource was produced by OPEN with support from The Polyamory Foundation. It was authored by Isabel Knight, founder of The Death Designer, and Tawnya Musser, founder of Dear Departures. Our thanks to contributors Stacey McLarty of Chosen Family Law Texas, and author/activist Zena Sharman, PhD. This resource is dedicated to the memory of El, with generous support from their wife, Casira.