WHEELING, IL — CANA Conventions are known for fun, intimacy, lots of food and drink, and networking centered around cremation. While the association has held these crucial conversations virtually since the pandemic began, nothing compares to the opportunity to connect face-to-face. During the challenges of 2020, CANA held a successful virtual convention attracting record-breaking numbers of attendees to what was the first of many events. This year, the association and its leadership see a path to connecting in-person safely.
Inspired by the enthusiasm of its members, CANA has decided to host the 103rd Annual Cremation Innovation Convention in-person this August. To balance the need for safety with the need to connect, the 103rd Convention will be smaller and emphasize quality over quantity.
Within physical distancing requirements, the CANA Convention will feel like the familiar place that death care professionals gather to learn, network, and catch up with innovative solutions from exhibitors. “Recently, I was honored to serve on a panel at the national Casket and Funeral Supply Association of America in Indianapolis,” said CANA Executive Director Barbara Kemmis. “We met in person, ate a meal together, even shook hands, hugged while masked, and took a selfie. There were some negotiations about vaccine status and comfort level wearing masks, but overall it was remarkably familiar and comfortable. CANA is listening and learning about what death care professionals need as we plan the 103rd CANA Annual Innovation Convention in August in Seattle.”
CANA is building a convention for those who want to come, but the association knows it’s not right for everyone. A decision to travel involves more than judging whether time away from family or business is feasible—there are other risks and benefits to calculate while considering the shifting restrictions to protect everyone’s safety. But, like every funeral, cremation, and cemetery business throughout this pandemic, CANA will find a way forward that meets the needs of registrants and complies with safety guidelines.
Seattle offers opportunities to explore the outdoors with three national parks within a day trip, the famous open-air Pike Place Market, beautiful vistas from the Space Needle, and other walkable city sights.
Mark your calendars for CANA’s 103rd Cremation Innovation Convention and keep your eye out for details about what CANA is doing to be both fun and safe. Registration for attendees and exhibitors is now open at goCANA.org/CANA21!
About CANA
Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,300 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization.
