The name reflects the importance of the end-of-life conversation. The name is a nod to when the parlor was the hub of social activity in the 18th and 19th century and was used for formal occasions such as weddings, births, and funerals alike. The name emphasizes our desire to restore a sense of normalcy to the death dialogue. Why "End-of-Life Cafe"? Long ago, we realized that even the toughest of
subjects can be more easily digested when coupled with the breaking of bread. The Parlor aims to someday open a storefront and operate as a fully functional end-of-life cafe as a means to bringing more events and workshops to the community. The People of The Parlor
The Death Midwife
My name is Emerita (aka Emmy) Colon and as a Death Midwife, I offer emotional, spiritual, and practical support to the dying and their communities. I offer presence and information with the intention to empower the individual to choose the death care they deem is right for them. I do not aim to replace hospice or a funeral director, but to work alongside them. As Founder and Director of The Parlor, I commit myself to challenging the status quo and facilitating the expansion of the death care resources that are currently in place in Chicago.
