Paper short abstract:

In Ethiopia insurance associations, who are mainly responsible for the organization and financing of funerals, exist. Because of the great importance of funerals and the associations so central to them, these associations are also found in the Ethiopian diaspora, e.g. in southern California.

Paper long abstract:

In Ethiopia insurance associations, who are mainly responsible for the organization and financing of funerals and the extensive funeral ceremonies, are an important part of life. They are mostly organised on the basis of neighbourhood and due to the mixed neighbourhoods in Ethiopian cities, they are very inclusive. Because of the great importance of funerals and the associations so central to them for persons of Ethiopian origin, these associations are also found in the Ethiopian diaspora in countries with diversified formal institutions.

The presentation will explain the insurance associations in the Ethiopian diaspora in southern California as a resource for the community members. It will question how this valuable resource is modified and preserved in moments of transition. How is the resource under study adapted to the new social, economic and religious environment in Southern California? And how is it possible to preserve these associations in the next generation?