Ethnology

Abortion is an important yet divisive issue that has led to many discussions concerning its legality. In 1973, the Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade decriminalized abortion in the United States. On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, jeopardizing abortion access. This study aims to gain insight into the public’s views on abortion through textual analysis of Reddit posts from a subreddit on abortion and interviews with Florida residents. There are two overarching themes present in both sets of results: the impact and effects of abortion bans and shifting gender dynamics. Analysis of Reddit posts reveal a shift in two sub-themes following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, with increased posts related to “Abortion Experiences” and decreased posts in “Emotional Support.” Interviewees were found to lean pro-choice, echoing the results of recent national surveys on people’s perception of abortion, and they emphasized the impact of abortion bans and the importance of support systems.

This study investigates the profound repercussions and adaptive measures stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic in Fort Pierce, Florida. Through comprehensive ethnographic interviews with 31 residents, Fort Pierce is showcased as a representative microcosm, reflecting the broader spectrum of the state’s diversity.
The analysis underscores how daily routines were drastically altered, and it sheds light on the innovative ways residents navigated these challenges. The effects of economic downturns, disruptions in consumption patterns, reduced social circles, and mental health challenges became evident, particularly among marginalized communities. The pandemic-induced environment led to job losses, supply chain disturbances, and jeopardized essential needs. As a result, feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression flourished, and traditional social ties weakened.
Yet, the resilient spirit of Fort Pierce was also in evidence. Residents displayed remarkable ability to adapt and innovate. Outdoor activities emerged as therapeutic escapes, and digital platforms filled the void in social and professional interactions. New behaviors, such as enhanced hygiene practices, became integral. However, as the pandemic’s timeline extended, a sense of fatigue with ongoing restrictions permeated the community.

This thesis outlines the cultural and literary interpretations of Haitian folktales among Haitians, Haitian Americans, and Americans of non-Haitian descent. This thesis seeks to explain how folktales can be used to highlight cultural identity through symbolic analysis, cultural reflexive theory and a cross-cultural analysis model. The nuanced differences found in the reception of the folktales that are associated with the characters of Uncle Bouki and Ti Malis by the three research groups forms the basis of this thesis research design. The characters of Uncle Bouki and Ti Malis are, in effect, cultural literary examples of how folktales could be used to explain Haitian rural societal values or norms