Ethnography

Ethnography Project Proposal 1

            July 4th is American Independence Day, the day that our society celebrates the birth of our nation. On such an eventful day in American culture, I believe that it presents a great opportunity to observe the behavior of American citizens. I will be going to the Arkansas River fireworks display in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I have gone in years past, but really have only been conscious of my immediate surroundings and the fireworks. This year, I plan to make keen observations about the attitude, environment, setting, and events at the festival. I will be observing individuals from all over the city of Tulsa. Usually, the event gets very crowded, and there is usually quite a bit excitement. The event is more than just a fireworks display. Starting around noon on July 4th, people begin to gather in the Veteran’s park and all down Riverside. Riverside is usually closed off from 51st street to Denver, and the fireworks are shot off from 21st street. In years past, there was quite a bit of drinking, people playing volleyball, cooking out, Jupiter jumps, and quite a few more activities. I plan to observe the behavior of the people attending this event. I want to focus on the American idea of celebration. I’ll be making note of food, drinks, events, games, and celebration. I think that this will be a great opportunity and that I can learn quite a bit about my own culture, as I’ve never really focused on the events going on around me. Living in America, things can seem commonplace, but to someone who has never visited America, describing the celebration of Independence Day could give great insight into our culture.